Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

Have you ever wondered what would happen if pumpkin pie and pecan pie had a baby?
Well, you’d get the warm, gooey, spiced treat known as Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler—a dessert so comforting, it might just become your new holiday favorite. Whether you’re a pumpkin fan or a pecan lover, this recipe brings the best of both worlds in one delicious, easy-to-make dish.

Let’s dive into why this dessert deserves a spot in your kitchen this season.

What Makes Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler So Special?

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This dessert is magic in a dish—soft, spiced pumpkin cake that bakes with its own gooey sauce, and a topping of toasted pecans that add crunch and nutty flavor. Think of it as a self-saucing cake-meets-autumn comfort food.

• Total Time: About 50 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 35 minutes
• Skill Level: Easy (beginner-friendly)

You don’t need fancy tools or skills. If you can stir, you can make this cobbler!

Essential Ingredients (With Substitutions and Variations)

Here’s what you’ll need to make the base and topping:

For the Cobbler Base:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup sugar (swap with brown sugar for deeper flavor)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves (optional)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy-free works too)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil)

For the Pecan Topping:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups hot water

Optional Mix-Ins and Substitutes:

• Try walnuts instead of pecans.
• Add a pinch of ground ginger for a stronger spice profile.
• Sub dairy milk with almond or oat milk if preferred.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves if using).

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, milk, and melted butter. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Don’t overmix.

Step 4: Spread into the Dish
Spoon the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the batter. Then sprinkle the brown sugar across the top.

Step 6: Pour the Hot Water
Here’s the trick—gently pour the hot water over the entire dish without stirring. This is how the cobbler forms its gooey sauce as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake
Place in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. The top should be set and the edges lightly golden. The bottom will stay gooey—that’s the best part!

How to Assemble and Serve Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5–10 minutes. This helps the sauce settle. Use a large spoon to scoop the cobbler into bowls, making sure to dig deep for that pumpkin base and gooey sauce.

Presentation Tips:

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Add a few whole pecans on top for a fancy touch.
• Dust lightly with cinnamon before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storage:

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.

Make-Ahead:

• Prepare the batter and topping ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge.
• When ready to bake, assemble, pour the hot water, and pop it in the oven.

Creative Recipe Variations

Want to make it your own? Try one of these spins:

• Maple Pumpkin Cobbler: Replace some of the sugar with real maple syrup for extra depth.
• Apple Pumpkin Cobbler: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples under the batter.
• Chocolate Chip Twist: Stir a handful of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a rich surprise.
• Cranberry-Pecan: Add dried cranberries to the pecan topping for a tart touch.

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Dessert

Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is more than just a fall dessert—it’s a warm, nostalgic treat that can be enjoyed year-round. It’s simple, flexible, and full of comforting flavors. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or a cozy night in, this cobbler is guaranteed to please.

So go ahead—experiment, make it your own, and share it with someone you love.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
Not recommended. Pie filling has added sugar and spices, which could throw off the balance. Use pure pumpkin puree for best results.

Is this cobbler healthy?
While it’s a dessert, pumpkin is rich in fiber and vitamin A. You can also adjust the sugar and use whole wheat flour to make it lighter.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler?
Yes, freeze in portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently before serving.

Why do I pour water over the top?
That’s the magic! The hot water helps create the sauce as the cobbler bakes—no stirring needed.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It works great in this recipe.

Try this once, and you’ll want to make it every week. Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is that good—warm, sweet, a little crunchy, and totally irresistible.