Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that wraps you in all the cozy flavors of fall, this Pumpkin Cobbler is absolutely the answer. It’s a delightful, warm, and comforting treat that combines tender pumpkin-spiced batter with a luscious brown sugar topping and crunchy pecans, creating layers of texture and flavor that feel like a big, tasty hug. Whether you’re serving it after a family dinner or as a festive addition to your holiday table, this Pumpkin Cobbler will quickly become your new favorite seasonal go-to that invites smiles and second helpings with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients means you can whip up this Pumpkin Cobbler without fuss, and each one plays a crucial role in crafting its memorable taste and texture. From the richness of melted butter to the warm spices that define the flavor, every element works in harmony to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides a rich, buttery base and helps create that golden crust on the pecans.
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped: Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin: The star of the show – moist, earthy, and naturally sweet, giving that perfect pumpkin core.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the depth of sweetness and warms up the overall flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Balances the spices and pumpkin with sweet, tender goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups flour: Builds the structure of the cobbler for a tender yet sturdy crumb.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the batter rise and become delightfully fluffy.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: Brings warmth and the classic autumn feel we all love.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: A perfect blend of spices that tie the pumpkin and cinnamon together beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed: Creates a rich and sticky topping that bubbles blissfully during baking.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (for topping): Intensifies the fall flavors right on top for a perfect finish.
- 1 1/2 cups hot water: Pours over the topping to create that signature sauce that soaks into the cobbler wonderfully.
How to Make Pumpkin Cobbler
Step 1: Prepare your baking pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it nice and hot. Then, spread the melted butter evenly over the bottom of a 9×13 baking pan, followed by a generous sprinkle of the rough-chopped pecans. This buttery, nutty layer will add an incredible crunchy texture and rich flavor beneath the pumpkin batter.
Step 2: Mix the pumpkin batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, vanilla extract, and sugar until you see the sugar begin to dissolve. This step ensures your cobbler is sweet and smooth from the get-go. Next, add in your flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk gently just until everything is combined and you no longer see dry streaks. This careful mixing keeps your batter tender and avoids developing too much gluten.
Step 3: Layer the batter over pecans and butter
Use a spoon to dollop the pumpkin batter over the pecans and butter in your pan. Take care not to mix the butter and pecans into the batter—keeping them separate creates the distinct layers in this dish.
Step 4: Prepare the topping and add hot water
In a separate small bowl, stir together your light brown sugar and additional pumpkin pie spice. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over your cobbler batter. Then, gently pour the hot water over everything—this is the magic step that helps the topping melt and seep into the batter, creating the signature saucy layer of a truly great cobbler.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Place your baking pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll see the topping bubble and brown slightly, while the pumpkin batter becomes light and fluffy underneath. Once done, remove it carefully and let it cool slightly before serving to let all the flavors settle and the sauce thicken.
How to Serve Pumpkin Cobbler
Garnishes
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream atop a warm slice transforms this Pumpkin Cobbler into a decadent dessert experience. For an extra touch, sprinkle some toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. These additions bring a fresh crunch and an inviting aroma that’ll make your guests swoon.
Side Dishes
This Pumpkin Cobbler pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced chai tea or a robust coffee, balancing its sweetness and spice. If serving at a festive gathering, consider alongside a simple green salad to offer a fresh contrast to the rich dessert, keeping the meal harmonious and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve individual portions of Pumpkin Cobbler in small ramekins or clear glass cups, layering with ice cream or whipped topping for a parfait-style treat. Another fun idea is to drizzle caramel sauce or even a drizzle of maple syrup over the warm cobbler, adding complexity and extra indulgence to each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cover the Pumpkin Cobbler tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days, and the flavor even deepens after resting overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked Pumpkin Cobbler by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or by placing it in a freezer-safe container. When properly stored, it will keep for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 325-degree Fahrenheit oven until heated through. Add a few extra minutes if reheated from frozen for the best texture. A quick reheat revives the comforting warmth and gooey topping perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree can be used, but be sure to cook and puree it first until smooth and drain any excess moisture so your cobbler maintains the right texture.
Is Pumpkin Cobbler gluten-free friendly?
Not as written, since it uses regular flour. But you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. Just watch the consistency and adjust if needed.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Swap melted butter for a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg or another egg replacer if the recipe calls for eggs (though this version does not). The result will still be scrumptious and comforting.
What’s the best way to get a crunchy topping?
The combination of melted butter and pecans on the bottom plus the brown sugar topping bubbling up during baking creates contrasting textures. Using chopped nuts and not skipping the butter step are keys to that great crunch.
How spicy is this Pumpkin Cobbler?
The cobbler has a warm, cozy spice level from cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, but it’s not hot or overwhelming—just enough to enhance the pumpkin’s natural flavor and complement the sweetness beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simple joy of a warm Pumpkin Cobbler fresh from the oven, with its beautiful layers of flavor and texture that make every bite a little celebration. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to share at any gathering, so I can’t encourage you enough to try making it soon. Trust me, once you do, Pumpkin Cobbler will be a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire!
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Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Cobbler is a cozy, sweet dessert perfect for fall gatherings. Featuring a moist, spiced pumpkin batter topped with a crunchy pecan and brown sugar topping, it combines warm flavors and a delightful texture that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your seasonal cravings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the cobbler.
- Prepare the pan: Spread the melted butter evenly over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle the roughly chopped pecans on top of the butter to create a crunchy base.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, vanilla extract, and sugar until the sugar is mostly dissolved, creating a smooth mixture.
- Add dry ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice to the pumpkin mixture. Whisk gently until just combined, ensuring there are no dry streaks but avoid overmixing.
- Layer the batter: Carefully spoon the batter over the butter and pecans in the pan. Do this gently so as not to mix the batter with the melted butter at the bottom.
- Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the light brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter layer.
- Add water: Slowly and gently pour the hot water evenly over the browned sugar topping without stirring. This will create a syrupy layer as it bakes.
- Bake the cobbler: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Ensure not to stir the batter into the butter so the pecan layer remains intact and provides a crunchy base.
- Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor balance.
- Adjust the sugar amount if you prefer less sweetness.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and substitute with an extra 1/3 cup of melted butter.
- Serve warm with optional vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12th of the recipe)
- Calories: 278 kcal
- Sugar: 40 g
- Sodium: 177 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 51 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: pumpkin cobbler, autumn dessert, pumpkin dessert, fall recipe, baked pumpkin, pecan dessert, easy cobbler
