Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe
If you’re searching for a fall dessert that’s equal parts homey, cozy, and absolutely irresistible, look no further than Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler. This decadent treat features a warmly spiced pumpkin cake that magically creates its own gooey, caramel-like sauce as it bakes, all crowned with crunchy pecans. Each bite carries the golden flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, all swirling together in the most comforting way. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet ending to a chilly night, Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is bound to steal the show at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity; every ingredient matters and adds something special, from the tender pumpkin base to the nutty pecan topping. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler so outrageously good:
- All purpose flour: This forms the backbone, giving the cobbler a soft, fluffy texture.
- Baking powder: Adds lift and ensures your cobbler rises lightly in the oven.
- Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cake and the saucy topping, creating a luscious dessert.
- Cinnamon: Infuses that warm, unmistakable autumn flavor throughout.
- Nutmeg: Pairs beautifully with pumpkin for a deeper, more complex aroma.
- Cloves: A tiny touch delivers a hint of spice that makes everything pop.
- Pumpkin puree: Brings unmatched moisture and the signature pumpkin color and taste.
- Milk: Helps bind the batter and creates a smooth, tender crumb.
- Melted butter or vegetable oil: Both options guarantee a moist, rich result; butter adds extra flavor.
- Vanilla: Rounds out the spices with its sweet, mellow scent.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the topping.
- Chopped pecans: Lend a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor in every bite.
- Very hot water: The magic ingredient that creates the cobbler’s bubbling sauce as it bakes.
How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350 degrees so it’s ready when your cobbler is assembled. If your baking dish has a tendency to bubble over, place a baking sheet on the rack below where you’ll bake the cobbler to catch any drips. This simple start guarantees a stress-free baking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Give everything a good stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed, which makes for a more flavorful Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler with every spoonful.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate, smaller bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla. Stir until smooth. This step is where the batter gets its signature color, and the pumpkin ensures the cobbler is extra moist and rich.
Step 4: Make the Batter and Transfer to Dish
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl. Gently stir them together until just combined; a thick batter will form. Scrape every bit into a small 8-inch casserole dish with high sides and use a spatula to spread it evenly. This is your flavor-packed base, ready for its sweet, nutty crown.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In another bowl, toss together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the batter in the dish. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot—this will meld into a glorious, gooey layer as the cobbler bakes.
Step 6: Add Hot Water and Bake
Carefully pour 1 1/2 cups of very hot water over the whole dish—right over the sugar and pecan layer. Whatever you do, don’t stir! This step feels strange, but it’s what creates the cobbler’s toffee-like sauce underneath. Pop the casserole dish in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the middle is set. The top should be golden and slightly crisp, while beneath a velvety sauce is waiting.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to settle and thickens just enough to spoon up perfectly. Trust me, the aroma alone is worth the short wait!
How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Garnishes
A finishing touch goes a long way with this cobbler. Try scattering extra toasted pecans on top for added crunch, or dusting with a bit of cinnamon sugar. My personal favorite is a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, which melts down into the warm sauce—pure bliss!
Side Dishes
Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is rich and decadent, so I like to keep the rest of the meal lighter. Serve it after a simple supper like roast chicken or a crisp autumn salad. For brunch, pair with fresh coffee or a hot spiced cider for ultimate coziness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, scoop the cobbler into ramekins for individual servings and top with a swirl of maple whipped cream. You can also layer it into parfait glasses with whipped topping and crushed gingersnaps for a pretty twist at a party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftovers? Simply cover the cooled Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will mellow and intensify, making it even more tempting on day two.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your cobbler, let it cool completely, wrap securely, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. While the sauce may loosen a bit, the flavor remains fabulous.
Reheating
To reheat, scoop portions into a microwave-safe bowl and warm in short bursts until heated through. For best texture, bake covered at 325 degrees for about 15 minutes. Don’t forget an extra scoop of ice cream to finish it off!
FAQs
Can I make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, gently reheat in the oven until warmed through for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.
Do I have to use pecans, or can I substitute another nut?
Pecans add a unique buttery crunch, but walnuts or almonds will work just as well. You can even skip the nuts entirely if you have allergies—the cobbler will still be delicious.
What if I don’t have pumpkin puree?
Canned pumpkin puree is easiest, but you can make your own by roasting and mashing pie pumpkins. Make sure to drain any excess liquid for best results.
Is it supposed to be saucy on the bottom?
Absolutely! The magic of Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is in the gooey, caramel-like sauce that forms beneath the cake layer. It’s the hallmark of a truly great cobbler, so enjoy every spoonful!
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely. Just use a larger baking dish and keep an eye on the baking time—it may need a few extra minutes. This cobbler is a hit at potlucks and family gatherings, so don’t be afraid to scale up.
Final Thoughts
I can’t say enough good things about Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler—it’s the soul of autumn desserts! This is the kind of treat that brings everyone running to the table, ready for just one more spoonful. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request in your home, no matter the season. Give it a try, share it with friends, and make a little extra—you won’t regret it!
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Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is a delightful fall dessert that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin, spices, and pecans in a comforting cobbler. The perfect treat for cozy evenings or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 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
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
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 to 350 degrees.
- In a smaller bowl, mix the pumpkin, milk, melted butter, and vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine the sugars and chopped pecans.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until the middle is set.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and spices. Set aside.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix to form a thick batter. Transfer the batter to an 8-inch casserole dish.
Spread this mixture evenly over the batter. Carefully pour the hot water over the top without stirring.
Place the casserole dish on a baking sheet to catch any spills. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy with additional pecans and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Make sure not to stir the hot water into the batter, as it creates a delicious sauce while baking.
- For extra indulgence, serve with whipped cream or caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler, Fall Dessert, Pumpkin Recipe, Cobbler Recipe
