If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, irresistibly sweet dessert that captures the essence of fall, the Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender pumpkin-spiced batter layered with crunchy pecans and a sugary topping, all bubbling in the oven to golden perfection—pure comfort in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm & Inviting Flavor: The perfect blend of pumpkin and warm spices makes this cobbler like a hug in dessert form.
- Simple to Make: With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe fits busy schedules without skimping on taste.
- Crunchy Meets Soft Texture: The pecans on top add that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender pumpkin base.
- All-Ages Favorite: Whether you’re serving family, friends, or holiday guests, this crowd-pleaser always impresses.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe plays its part in crafting the cozy, spiced atmosphere of this dessert. From the fluffy flour base to the nutty pecans and warm pumpkin spices, each one builds layers of comforting flavor and texture.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender but sturdy cobbler batter, ensuring the perfect crumb.
- Baking powder: Adds lightness and helps the batter rise to fluffy perfection.
- Granulated and brown sugar: Sweetness with a hint of caramel depth from the brown sugar.
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves): Classic pumpkin pie spices that bring warmth and seasonal flair.
- Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, keeping the cobbler moist and packed with autumn flavor.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the batter together smoothly.
- Melted butter or vegetable oil: Adds richness and keeps the batter tender.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out flavors and adds a sweet fragrance.
- Chopped pecans: Sprinkle on top for delightful crunch and nutty richness.
- Hot water: Poured over the topping before baking, creating the signature cobbler effect.
Variations
One of the best things about the Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe is how easy it is to tweak and personalize. Whether you’re embracing dietary preferences or craving a new flavor twist, adapting this cobbler is simple and fun!
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
- Maple Syrup Swap: Replace granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
- Nut Variations: Try walnuts or pecan halves instead of chopped pecans for a different crunch and texture.
- Dairy-Free Twist: Use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter to make it vegan-friendly.
How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Preheat & Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and those cozy spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This blend sets the stage for all the pumpkin magic to come.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a smaller bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and fragrant—the heart of your cobbler’s irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Mix Batter & Pour
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently mix to create a thick, luscious batter. Transfer this mixture to an 8-inch casserole dish with high sides, spreading it out evenly but don’t fuss too much—rustic is charming here!
Step 4: Add the Topping & Pour Hot Water
In a separate bowl, blend the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Sprinkle this sugary, nutty topping evenly over the batter. Then, pour the very hot water over everything—but here’s the secret: don’t stir it! This creates the magical cobbler texture when baked.
Step 5: Bake & Cool
Bake for 40 minutes or until the center sets and the topping bubbles happily at the edges. Place the casserole on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving—it helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up perfectly.
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves bring a brighter, more vibrant flavor than pre-mixed blends.
- Hot Water Trick: Pouring hot water over the topping without stirring creates that signature bubbling, syrupy effect that makes this cobbler unique.
- Baking Dish Choice: Use a deep 8-inch casserole dish to ensure enough depth for the batter and bubbling topping without spilling over.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the cobbler rest allows the layers to set properly; it’s worth the wait to avoid a runny dessert.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
Top your pumpkin pecan cobbler with extra chopped pecans for a nutty crunch, and a big scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for that cool, creamy contrast. A dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup adds a pretty final flourish.
Side Dishes
This cobbler pairs wonderfully with warm drinks like spicy chai tea, creamy lattes, or a rich hot chocolate. If serving at brunch or a gathering, fresh fruit or a light green salad can balance the dessert’s sweetness nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the cobbler in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of toasted pecans and a cinnamon stick. Or create a dessert buffet where guests add their own toppings — from caramel sauce to chopped dates — making it interactive and fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooling, cover your cobbler tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more deliciously.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked cobbler by wrapping it tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick indulgence anytime.
Reheating
Warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or reheat the entire cobbler in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again—just like fresh from the oven.
FAQs
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Can I use canned pumpkin or do I need fresh pumpkin for this cobbler?
Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe and is what I recommend for convenience. Fresh pumpkin requires cooking and pureeing first, which adds extra time but can make a more vibrant flavor.
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Why do I pour hot water over the topping?
The hot water melts the sugars and soaks into the batter below to create a moist, saucy layer that gives the cobbler its signature texture and lusciousness. It’s key not to stir to keep those layers distinct.
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Can I make this cobbler vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, swap butter for coconut oil or a vegan spread, and ensure your sugar choice is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based.
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How can I tell when the cobbler is done baking?
The cobbler is ready when the center is set and not jiggly, and the topping is bubbling around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the batter should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe is one of those heartwarming desserts that feels like home in every spoonful. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple family night, you really can’t go wrong making (and sharing) this treat. So gather your ingredients, embrace the cozy season, and enjoy each delicious bite!
PrintPumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe
This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is a warm, spiced dessert featuring a tender pumpkin-flavored batter topped with a crunchy pecan-sugar topping that simmers to perfection under a layer of hot water. Baked to a golden brown, it’s a comforting autumn treat ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, best served warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Cobbler
- 1 cup + 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 1/2 cups very hot water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the cobbler.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the all purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir these dry ingredients together thoroughly and set the bowl aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a smaller bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter (or vegetable oil), and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Create Batter: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently to form a thick batter without overmixing.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the batter evenly into a small 8-inch casserole dish with high sides, spreading it out gently to cover the base.
- Make Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans for the topping.
- Top the Batter: Spread the pecan-sugar topping evenly over the batter in the casserole dish.
- Add Hot Water: Pour 1 1/2 cups of very hot water over the entire mixture carefully without stirring to keep layers distinct and allow the topping to cook into a syrupy sauce.
- Bake the Cobbler: Place the casserole dish onto a baking sheet (to catch any overflow), then bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the center is set and the topping is bubbly and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, garnished with extra pecans and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Be sure not to stir after pouring in the hot water to ensure the topping and batter layers cook properly.
- Use a baking sheet under the casserole to catch potential spills as the cobbler bubbles during baking.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk and butter with plant-based milk and oil respectively.
- This dessert is best served warm, ideally paired with vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.
