Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is not just any dessert; it’s a warm hug in a dish. With its delightful combination of fluffy cake on top and rich caramel sauce below, this dessert makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe has your back. It’s simple enough for any night but special enough for those cherished moments.
What I love most about this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is how it transforms ordinary ingredients into something truly magical. The warm spices and nutty pecans create an aroma that fills your home with comfort and joy. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will adore!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for anyone, even those short on time.
- Deliciously Cozy: The flavors of pumpkin and spices are quintessentially fall, creating a warm and inviting dessert.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 8 servings, it’s ideal for family gatherings or potlucks—everyone will want to try it!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the batter ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to indulge.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it as is; either way, it’s heavenly!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delicious Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!
For the Cake
- 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
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
For the Hot Water Layer
- 1 1/2 cups very hot water
Variations
One of the best things about this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to try:
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Use Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice Upgrade: Add an extra dash of pumpkin spice mix for more spice flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this dessert suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your cobbler bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk them together well and set aside. Mixing these dry ingredients creates a flavorful base for your cobbler.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter (or vegetable oil), and vanilla until smooth. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until you form a thick batter. It should be nice and creamy! Transfer this batter into an 8-inch casserole dish with high sides—this will hold all that deliciousness nicely.
Step 4: Create the Topping
In yet another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of your batter—this will turn into that wonderful caramel layer we all love.
Step 5: Add Hot Water (Without Stirring!)
Now here’s the magic part: carefully pour very hot water over everything in your dish without stirring! This step helps create that beautiful two-layer effect. Place your casserole dish on a baking sheet (just in case it bubbles over) and pop it into the preheated oven.
Step 6: Bake Until Set
Bake for about 40 minutes or until you see that the middle has set nicely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make waiting so hard! Once done, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is best served warm with more pecans sprinkled on top alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired! Enjoy every bite of this heartwarming treat!
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Making the perfect Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is easy with just a few simple tips to ensure your dessert turns out beautifully.
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Use fresh pumpkin puree: Fresh puree gives a richer flavor compared to canned options, enhancing the overall taste of your cobbler.
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Don’t skip the hot water: Pouring hot water over the batter creates that delightful layer of caramel sauce underneath. It’s what makes this dessert so unique!
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Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing the cobbler to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set a little, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference—adding a bit more cinnamon or nutmeg can give it an extra cozy warmth.
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Add more pecans for crunch: If you love nuts, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top before serving. They add a delightful crunch that complements the soft cake perfectly.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Presentation can make a big difference when serving your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler, turning a simple dessert into an impressive centerpiece for your fall gatherings.
Garnishes
- Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that balances the richness of the cobbler.
- Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each serving elevates not only the look but also enhances the flavor profile of this already indulgent dessert.
- Chopped pecans: Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top just before serving for an extra touch of crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm cobbler creates a heavenly combination that’s hard to resist.
- Apple slices with cinnamon sugar: Fresh apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon sugar provide a refreshing contrast and complement the flavors of pumpkin and spices in the cobbler.
- Spiced chai tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea pairs beautifully with pumpkin desserts, adding warmth and depth that enhances your dining experience.
- Maple-glazed carrots: These sweet, tender carrots offer a lovely balance to the sweetness of the cobbler and make for a colorful side dish at any fall gathering.
Enjoy crafting this delightful Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler, perfect for sharing with friends and family during cozy autumn evenings!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it stores well, making it a great option for those busy fall weeks.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the cobbler to cool completely before storing.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Let the cobbler cool completely.
- Cut into individual servings and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place cobbler in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent burning.
- Heat for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler:
Can I make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler without nuts?
Absolutely! Simply omit the pecans from the recipe. The cobbler will still be deliciously pumpkin-flavored.
What makes Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler different from traditional pumpkin pie?
Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler features a cake-like topping with a rich caramel sauce underneath, creating a unique texture that sets it apart from traditional pumpkin pie.
How can I make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour and reduce the sugar by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
What should I serve with Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler?
Serving this cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped coconut cream enhances its deliciousness!
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is truly a delightful way to celebrate fall flavors! With its warm spices and gooey caramel sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do, and I’m excited for you to share it with your loved ones. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Savor the warmth of fall with this delightful Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler, a cozy dessert that encapsulates the essence of the season. With its fluffy cake topping and rich caramel sauce beneath, each bite feels like a comforting embrace. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for family gatherings or a sweet indulgence on a busy weeknight. Simple yet special, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite. The warm spices and nutty pecans create an enticing aroma that fills your home with joy, making it not just a dessert, but a celebration of autumn flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 1/2 cups very hot water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and spices.
- In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla until smooth. Add to dry ingredients and mix gently.
- Pour batter into an 8-inch casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans; sprinkle over the batter.
- Carefully pour 1.5 cups of very hot water over the top without stirring.
- Bake for about 40 minutes until set in the middle.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg