Autumn is the perfect season to indulge in warm, comforting desserts, and nothing says "fall" like the combination of pumpkin and pecans. If you're looking for a mouthwatering dessert that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler recipe. This delectable treat combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, the satisfying crunch of pecans, and the warmth of autumn spices, all topped with a gooey, buttery caramel-like sauce. Trust us; you won't want to miss out on this incredible dessert. Read on to discover how to create this irresistible Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds)!
What is Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler?
Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds: a soft, spiced pumpkin cake base and a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping. The cobbler bakes in such a way that the cake rises to the top while a rich, buttery sauce forms underneath. When scooped out and served warm, each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors—smooth pumpkin, crunchy pecans, and a luscious caramel-like sauce. It’s a cozy, satisfying dessert that embodies the essence of fall.
Ingredients List for Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
To make the perfect Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler, you'll need a variety of ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Below is the list of ingredients required for this recipe:
- For the Pumpkin Base:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups boiling water
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler recipe is its flexibility. There are several substitutions and variations you can try, depending on your dietary needs or ingredient availability.
- Gluten-Free Variation:
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option:
- Replace the whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice. Instead of butter, use a plant-based butter alternative.
- Nut-Free Version:
- If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free dessert, you can replace the pecans with rolled oats or omit them altogether. Consider adding some shredded coconut for a different texture.
- Spice Adjustments:
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. For a more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of allspice or cardamom. If you prefer a milder spice profile, reduce the amount of ginger and cloves.
- Add-ins:
- Consider adding some chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or raisins to the pumpkin base for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start making your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your cobbler turns out perfectly every time.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set it aside.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, whole milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Spread the Batter:
- Pour the pumpkin batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Prepare the Pecan Topping:
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and granulated sugar evenly over the top of the pumpkin batter.
- Add the Butter:
- Dot the top with small pieces of butter, evenly distributed across the surface.
- Pour the Boiling Water:
- Carefully pour the boiling water over the entire cobbler. This may seem unusual, but it’s essential for creating the gooey sauce at the bottom of the cobbler as it bakes.
- Bake the Cobbler:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The cobbler will be done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, though there may be some gooey sauce clinging to it.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving:
- Allow the cobbler to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will give the sauce time to thicken slightly and make serving easier.
How to Cook Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is a straightforward process, but there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best results. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure your cobbler is as delicious as possible:
- Temperature Control:
- Make sure your oven is properly preheated before placing the cobbler inside. An accurate oven temperature is crucial for even baking and to avoid undercooking or overcooking the cobbler.
- Use Fresh Spices:
- For the best flavor, use fresh ground spices. Spices lose their potency over time, so if your spices have been sitting in your pantry for a while, consider replacing them.
- Boiling Water Technique:
- Pouring boiling water over the batter may seem strange, but this technique is what creates the gooey sauce at the bottom of the cobbler. Be sure to pour the water evenly and carefully to avoid disturbing the layers.
- Serving Suggestions:
- While the cobbler is delicious on its own, serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert to new heights. The cold creaminess of the ice cream or whipped cream pairs beautifully with the warm, spiced cobbler.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a recipe as forgiving as this one, there are a few common mistakes that can occur. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler turns out perfectly every time.
- Overmixing the Batter:
- Overmixing the pumpkin batter can result in a tough, dense cobbler. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a light, tender texture.
- Forgetting the Boiling Water:
- Skipping the boiling water step or using lukewarm water instead will affect the formation of the sauce. Make sure the water is fully boiling before you pour it over the batter.
- Undercooking the Cobbler:
- Removing the cobbler from the oven too early can result in a runny, undercooked dessert. Be sure to bake it until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Using Cold Ingredients:
- Ensure that your butter is melted and at room temperature, and your milk is not cold straight from the fridge. Cold ingredients can affect the texture and baking time of the cobbler.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when serving any dessert, and Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is no exception. Here are some tips to make your cobbler look as good as it tastes:
- Serve Warm:
- Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is best served warm, as the flavors and textures are most pronounced. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature.
- Garnish with Pecans:
- For an added touch, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top just before serving. This adds visual appeal and enhances the nutty flavor.
- Add a Drizzle of Caramel Sauce:
- For a truly decadent dessert, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of each serving. The caramel complements the pumpkin and pecan flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Serving Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is simple, but there are a few ways you can elevate the experience:
- Individual Portions:
- Scoop the cobbler into individual bowls or ramekins for a more elegant presentation. This also ensures everyone gets an equal amount of that delicious caramel sauce.
- Top with Ice Cream:
- Vanilla ice cream is the perfect companion to Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler. The contrast between the warm cobbler and cold ice cream is delightful.
- Whipped Cream:
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense, rich cobbler.
Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Creating a beautiful presentation for your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas:
- Rustic Charm:
- Serve the cobbler in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homey presentation. The skillet keeps the cobbler warm longer and adds to the cozy, autumnal vibe.
- Family-Style Serving:
- Place the entire cobbler dish on the table and let everyone serve themselves. This encourages a communal dining experience and showcases the cobbler’s inviting appearance.
- Seasonal Garnishes:
- Garnish the cobbler with a few whole pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. You can also add a small decorative pumpkin or some fall leaves to the table setting for a festive touch.
Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler recipe:
- Make Ahead:
- You can prepare the pumpkin batter and pecan topping separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply assemble and bake as directed.
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freeze for Later:
- If you want to freeze the cobbler, do so before adding the boiling water. Wrap the assembled but unbaked cobbler tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator, pour on the boiling water, and bake as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery batter.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
A: Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9x13-inch dish. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so keep an eye on it.
Q: What if I don’t have pecans?
A: You can substitute walnuts or even almonds if you don’t have pecans on hand. Each will add a different flavor and texture to the cobbler.
Q: How do I know when the cobbler is done?
A: The cobbler is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (with the exception of the gooey sauce).
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, by substituting the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives and ensuring all other ingredients are vegan-friendly, you can easily make this recipe vegan.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is the epitome of fall comfort food. With its rich, spiced pumpkin base, crunchy pecan topping, and gooey caramel sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you're serving it at a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or just as a treat for yourself, this cobbler is guaranteed to impress. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a slice of autumn heaven today!
PrintPumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe
Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is a rich and comforting dessert that combines a spiced pumpkin filling with a sweet and crunchy pecan topping. This fall-inspired treat is perfect for cozy evenings and holiday gatherings. Enjoy the delicious blend of pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, paired with a buttery pecan crunch. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the batter.
- Carefully pour the boiling water over the entire mixture.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your sweetness preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 210mg
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