Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that combines the cozy flavors of autumn with a luscious, gooey texture, you’re in for a treat with this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler. It’s a warm, inviting dish where spiced pumpkin pumpkin puree meets a buttery, golden topping crowned with crunchy pecans. The magic happens as boiling water creates a sweet sauce beneath the crust, making every spoonful a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and syrupy. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or a comforting family night, this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler delivers that perfect hug-from-the-oven feeling you won’t want to miss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler lies in its simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from the fragrant spices that bring seasonal warmth, to the rich butter that gives the topping its irresistible golden crust. Gather these pantry staples and fresh staples, and you’re already halfway to a dessert that smells as amazing as it tastes.

• Pumpkin puree (1 can, 15 oz): The star ingredient providing moist texture and that classic pumpkin flavor.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Balances the natural earthiness of pumpkin with just the right sweetness.
• Brown sugar, packed (1/4 cup + 1/4 cup + 1 cup): Adds deep molasses notes and moisture to both the filling and topping.
• Whole milk (1/2 cup): Ensures the filling is creamy and smooth.
• Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to give structure to the pumpkin mixture.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings out all the warm flavors and adds a fragrant touch.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Provides that signature pumpkin spice warmth.
• Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp): Adds a nutty, slightly sweet aroma.
• Ground ginger (1/4 tsp): Gives a subtle zing that brightens the flavor.
• Ground cloves (1/4 tsp): Offers a rich, slightly bitter contrast to balance sweetness.
• Salt (1/4 tsp + 1/4 tsp): Enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Creates the base of the topping for that perfect crumbly texture.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the topping rise and become light yet crisp.
• Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Adds richness and helps form a golden crust.
• Chopped pecans (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup): For delightful crunch both inside and on top of the cobbler.
• Boiling water (1 1/2 cups): Poured on top to create a luscious, syrupy sauce under the topping.

How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures that your cobbler won’t stick and that it bakes with an even golden crust you can easily serve up. A well-prepared dish is the foundation for a beautiful dessert.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt until the mixture is silky and smooth. This blend is the heart of your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler, infusing it with rich, warmly spiced pumpkin goodness.

Step 3: Combine the Topping Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then stir in the melted butter until you get a thick, wet batter. This topping will bake up crisp and golden, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy pumpkin layer beneath.

Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler

Pour the pumpkin filling evenly into your prepared baking dish. Gently spread the topping batter over it, making sure to cover the pumpkin layer completely. Sprinkle 1 cup of packed brown sugar over the top, then carefully pour 1 ½ cups of boiling water across the entire dish—resist the urge to stir! Finally, scatter pecans over the top to add that signature crunch and nutty flavor.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your cobbler in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Look for a bubbly sauce oozing at the edges and a golden-brown topping that invites you to dig in. When it’s done, let it cool 10 to 15 minutes before serving—this resting time helps the syrup thicken, making sure every spoonful is irresistibly saucy and comforting.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

Garnishes

Top your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cool creaminess complements the warm spices and crunchy pecans beautifully. A light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of toasted pecans adds an extra layer of visual appeal and flavor.

Side Dishes

This cobbler shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. For a brunch twist, serve alongside cinnamon-spiced oatmeal or creamy mascarpone cheese to add richness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler in individual ramekins, garnished with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. Alternatively, spoon it over warm pancakes or waffles to transform it into a decadent fall breakfast treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, allowing you to savor every last bit of that comforting flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the cobbler before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, tightly wrapping with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen but add extra baking time until it’s bubbly and golden.

Reheating

Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Be sure to cover loosely with foil to prevent the topping from drying out and to maintain that luscious sauce.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth. Keep in mind fresh pumpkin puree might be a bit more watery, so you may need to cook it down or adjust the liquid slightly in the recipe.

What if I don’t have all the spices?

No worries! Cinnamon is essential, but if you’re missing some spices like nutmeg or cloves, you can substitute with pumpkin pie spice or simply adjust to what you have on hand. The cobbler will still be deliciously spiced.

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Yes, pecans bring a lovely buttery crunch, but walnuts or almonds can easily work as alternatives. Just chop them roughly and sprinkle on top as you would the pecans.

Is this cobbler gluten-free?

The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version, but texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when the cobbler is done baking?

Look for a golden-brown topping and bubbling sauce along the edges. The bubbling is a great sign the syrup is thickening underneath, and the crust should be set and slightly crisp on top.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is a true celebration of fall wrapped in a luscious, warmly spiced package. The way the pumpkin melds with the buttery topping and crunchy pecans creates a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly comforting. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for holiday dinners or any time you want a special treat. Give it a whirl—you’re in for a deliciously cozy adventure with every bite!

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