Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that wraps all the cozy flavors of fall into one warm, irresistible dish, let me introduce you to the Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler. This delightful treat is exactly what your autumn dessert lineup has been missing—a perfect balance of spiced pumpkin filling with a tender, buttery topping and a generous sprinkle of toasted pecans for crunch. Every spoonful bursts with the comforting spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, offering a rustic charm that’s ideal for family gatherings or a sweet ending to any meal. The Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is not just dessert; it’s an experience that invites you to slow down, savor, and share.*

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the magic in Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler starts with simple ingredients you likely have on hand, yet each one plays an essential role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From creamy pumpkin puree to toasted pecans, these components combine to deliver a cobbler that’s both rich and vibrant.

• Pumpkin puree: The star of the dish, providing moisture, color, and that unmistakable autumn flavor.
• Granulated and brown sugar: A blend of sugars that balances sweetness and adds subtle caramel notes.
• Whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps bind the batter perfectly.
• Egg: For structure and silkiness within the pumpkin layer.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness with a warm aromatic depth.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves: The classic fall spice quartet that makes every bite festive and fragrant.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cobbler topping, providing that tender crumb.
• Baking powder: Gives just the right lift to the topping without overpowering the pumpkin beneath.
• Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed in to create a rich, golden crust.
• Chopped pecans: For toasty crunch and a nutty extravaganza, split between the topping and final sprinkle.
• Boiling water: Added at the end to create a delightful, caramelized sauce that mingles with the pumpkin filling.
• Salt: A secret weapon to enhance all the sweet and spicy elements.

How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter. This ensures the Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler bakes evenly and releases beautifully once done.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, egg, vanilla extract, and all those fragrant spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, plus a pinch of salt. Whisk until you get a smooth and creamy blend — this mixture is the luscious base of your cobbler.

Step 3: Prepare the Cobbler Topping

Take another bowl and combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in melted butter and stir until the batter becomes thick and slightly sticky. This topping will gently cook atop the pumpkin filling, creating a beautiful golden crust that’s just right.

Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler

Pour the pumpkin filling evenly into your prepared dish. Next, carefully spoon or spread the thick batter atop the pumpkin layer—you want to cover it as best as possible, but the rustic, uneven look is part of its charm. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over this topping layer for that irresistible caramelization.

Step 5: Add Boiling Water and Pecans

Slowly pour the boiling water over the entire dish—do not stir! This step melds the ingredients together during baking, creating pockets of sweet sauce beneath the topping. Finish by scattering chopped pecans generously over the top, adding crunch and a gorgeous nutty finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is ready when the topping is golden brown and you see bubbling sauce underneath the crust. Let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes before digging in—trust me, patience pays off here.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

Garnishes

Serve your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream for creaminess that complements the rich pumpkin and crunchy pecans. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or drizzle warm caramel sauce for added decadence.

Side Dishes

This cobbler shines as the grand finale after any autumn-inspired meal. Pair it with spiced chai tea or a robust cup of coffee to balance its sweetness. If serving at a holiday feast, consider lighter sides earlier on, since this dessert is satisfyingly rich.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins, crowned with pecan halves and a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also layer it in clear glass trifle bowls to show off the beautiful contrast of pumpkin and topping, making it as eye-catching as it is mouthwatering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftover Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler tightly and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy its warm spices long after the initial bake.

Freezing

This cobbler freezes wonderfully! Just cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds, or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until bubbling and heated through (about 20 minutes). Reheating restores that freshly baked feeling every time.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Absolutely! You will need to cook and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth, then measure out the same amount as the canned puree. Just make sure it’s not watery, or you might need to adjust the liquid in the recipe slightly.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

Don’t worry! Cinnamon is essential for that classic flavor, but if you’re missing nutmeg, ginger, or cloves, feel free to use what you have or substitute with pumpkin pie spice, which combines those spices in one.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. The texture may differ slightly, but the overall experience remains delicious.

Is there a way to make this cobbler less sweet?

Definitely. You can reduce the sugar in both the pumpkin filling and topping by about 25% without compromising taste much, letting the natural pumpkin flavor shine through more boldly.

Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the cobbler the night before and cover it in the fridge. Just add the boiling water and pecans right before baking to keep the texture perfect.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler that makes you want to share it over and over—a dessert that feels like a warm hug in food form. Whether it’s for a cozy family night, a festive gathering, or simply a moment to treat yourself, this recipe delivers that perfect blend of comforting spices, tender pumpkin, and pecan crunch. Give it a try soon and let this seasonal favorite become one of your go-to sweet traditions.

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