If you’re craving the ooey-gooey decadence of a classic pecan pie but want something even easier—and, dare I say, a little more magical—then Pecan Pie Cobbler is the dessert you need to try next. This Southern-inspired bake is rich, nutty, and deliciously layered, with a buttery, biscuit-like crust that forms right in the oven. As it bakes, sweet syrupy filling mingles with the pecans and batter, creating a cobbler that’s both comforting and impressive enough for any gathering. Once you’ve made Pecan Pie Cobbler, you might find yourself coming up with reasons to whip up a pan again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pecan Pie Cobbler is in its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each one is chosen for the crucial role it plays, from the tender crumb of the flour batter to the deep, caramel flavor of brown sugar and pecans. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few helpful tips to get the most out of each component.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cobbler’s biscuit-like base.
- Baking powder: Gives the batter its lift, ensuring the crust puffs up beautifully as it bakes.
- Salt: Just a touch intensifies every sweet, nutty, buttery note.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and balances the nuts and syrup.
- Whole milk: Brings the batter together with richness—use at room temperature for best mixing.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the cobbler with that classic, dessert-warming aroma and taste.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds flavor and those inviting golden edges to the finished cobbler.
- Light corn syrup: Creates that unmistakable glossy, gooey pecan pie filling—feel free to swap for dark corn syrup if you prefer extra depth.
- Packed brown sugar: Enhances caramel flavors and adds a molassesy backdrop to the filling.
- Large eggs: Help set the filling into its signature custard-like texture; using room temperature eggs blends best.
- Vanilla extract (for filling): Rounds out the syrupy filling with even more warmth.
- Chopped pecans: The heart of this dish—go for fresh, fragrant pecans for maximum flavor and crunch.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cobbler
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start your Pecan Pie Cobbler adventure by mixing up the batter base. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and seasonings. Next, stir in the milk and vanilla extract until you’ve got a smooth, pourable batter—no need for anything fancy, just a good old hand whisk will do.
Step 2: Layer the Butter and Batter
Pour the melted butter straight into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Here’s where the magic begins! Next, pour the prepared batter right over the butter. Don’t stir or swirl—leaving the layers undisturbed is what helps create the cobbler’s distinctive, self-layering crust as it bakes.
Step 3: Mix Up the Pecan Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and the second measure of vanilla extract. Once combined and smooth, gently stir in the chopped pecans. This gooey, nut-studded mixture will give you those irresistible pockets of caramelized pecans throughout.
Step 4: Add the Pecan Layer
Carefully spoon the pecan mixture over the batter in the baking dish, distributing the syrupy nuts evenly. Again—resist the urge to stir. This layering is what creates pools of caramel and those signature bites where filling meets crust.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the dish into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for the top to turn golden brown and just set in the center. The aroma is heavenly, with toasty nuts and buttery pastry heralding dessert long before it cools.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your Pecan Pie Cobbler cool for at least 15 minutes after baking. This small wait will set the layers for easy serving. Enjoy it warm—especially with a scoop of ice cream, if you’re feeling extra indulgent!
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cobbler
Garnishes
There’s no wrong way to finish off a bubbling dish of Pecan Pie Cobbler, but a few simple touches can transform it into a true showstopper. Try a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for creamy contrast, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkling of crushed toasted pecans for extra crunch. If you love sweet and salty, a few flakes of sea salt on top just before serving can really elevate the flavors.
Side Dishes
Since Pecan Pie Cobbler is undeniably rich, balance it out with bright, fresh sides at your dessert table. Think fresh berries, a bowl of sliced oranges, or even a fruit salad. A mug of strong coffee, black tea, or a cold glass of milk all make classic companions that won’t overshadow the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, you might want to portion your cobbler into individual ramekins for an elegant touch—each guest gets their own mini dessert! For potlucks or casual dinners, just bring the whole baking dish to the table and let everyone scoop out their portion. If you’re feeling playful, serve the cobbler parfait-style in small glasses layered with vanilla pudding and whipped cream.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of your Pecan Pie Cobbler (a rare occurrence in my house!), simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days, and you’ll have a sweet snack just waiting for you.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Pecan Pie Cobbler! Cool it completely, then wrap tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap and foil, or spoon portions into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to two months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring Pecan Pie Cobbler back to its warm, gooey glory, pop portions in the microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, or reheat the whole baking dish in a 300°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes. For the best texture, always reheat gently and avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
Absolutely! Dark corn syrup will add a deeper, almost toffee-like note to your Pecan Pie Cobbler and a slightly richer color. It’s a fun twist if you’re looking for even more flavor complexity.
Can I make Pecan Pie Cobbler gluten free?
Yes, just substitute a good 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for the all-purpose flour. The rest of the recipe remains the same, and you’ll still get that signature tender crust and gooey filling.
What if I only have pecan halves?
No problem! Roughly chop your pecan halves with a chef’s knife before adding them to the filling. Small pieces distribute more evenly, ensuring each bite is packed with pecan goodness.
How can I tell when my Pecan Pie Cobbler is done baking?
Look for a deep golden color on top and a set center that doesn’t jiggle when gently shaken. If the center still seems wet, bake for another 5 minutes before checking again.
Is Pecan Pie Cobbler best served warm or cold?
Warm is the absolute favorite—especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top. That said, it’s still delicious at room temperature or even chilled if you want to prep ahead.
Final Thoughts
Pecan Pie Cobbler truly captures everything we love about classic Southern desserts—it’s buttery, gooey, and full of toasted pecan flavor. If you’re ready for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s delightfully simple yet downright irresistible, don’t wait to try this recipe. Your family and friends will thank you, and it just might become your new potluck or holiday tradition!
Print
Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of a classic pecan pie and a comforting cobbler with this delicious Pecan Pie Cobbler recipe. A buttery crust layered with a rich, nutty filling, this dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 ½ cups light corn syrup
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)
Additional Ingredient:
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar.
- Prepare batter: Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the batter evenly over the butter—do not stir.
- Make pecan mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Layer and bake: Gently spoon the pecan mixture over the batter in the baking dish—do not stir. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown and set.
- Serve: Let the cobbler cool for at least 15 minutes before serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Notes
- This dessert forms its own layered crust as it bakes.
- For added richness, use dark corn syrup or add a splash of bourbon to the filling.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *