If you’re craving a cozy dessert that wraps you in all the warm flavors of fall, look no further than this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender pumpkin-spiced batter with a delightfully crunchy pecan topping that bakes up golden and bubbly. Every spoonful brings together autumn’s signature spices and the satisfying texture contrast between soft cobbler and crisp nuts. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a weekend treat, this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe feels like a hug on a plate, inviting you to indulge in comforting goodness with every bite.

Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is an essential first step to making your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler recipe shine. Each element plays an important role: the flour and baking powder create a light, fluffy base; spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg infuse warmth and depth; while pumpkin puree adds moisture and that rich fall color. Topping it all, pecans provide just the right crunch to balance the soft cobbler beneath.

1 cup + 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, cakey texture.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the batter rise light and fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the spices perfectly.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Classic warming spice essential for that cozy fall feeling.
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds subtle earthy notes that deepen the flavor.
1/2 teaspoon cloves: Brings a gentle spicy bite to the mix.
1/2 cup pumpkin puree: Moistens the batter and makes it irresistibly seasonal.
1/4 cup milk: Joins the wet ingredients for a smooth batter.
1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil: Adds richness and moisture.
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping): Sweetens the crunchy pecan layer.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds a rich molasses undertone to the topping.
1/4 cup chopped pecans: The star crunch contributing delightful texture contrast.
1 1/2 cups very hot water: Creates that signature moist, syrupy topping during baking.

How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the heat is just right when your cobbler goes in, baking everything evenly to golden perfection while developing those irresistible bubbling edges.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These dry components blend to form the flavorful backbone of the cobbler, and stirring them thoroughly helps distribute the spices evenly for every bite.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter (or vegetable oil), and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This mixture provides that moist, rich quality that makes this cobbler unmistakably autumnal and comforting.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Pour the wet pumpkin mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently to form a thick, uniform batter. Be careful not to overmix here—just combine enough to maintain a tender crumb and avoid a dense texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish

Transfer the batter into an 8-inch casserole dish with tall sides, spreading it evenly. This gives the batter room to rise and bake up into a soft, spiced cake base for your topping.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

Mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans in a separate bowl. Sprinkle this evenly over the batter in your dish, setting the stage for a wonderful crunchy crust once baked.

Step 7: Add Hot Water

Carefully pour the very hot water over the entire cobbler without stirring. This is a bit magical—it seeps down through the batter as it bakes, creating a perfectly moist yet crisp topping that defines this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler recipe.

Step 8: Bake

Place your casserole dish on a baking sheet to catch any spills, then slide it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for about 40 minutes until the center sets and the topping turns beautifully golden and bubbly. The aromas filling your kitchen at this stage are absolute heaven.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the cobbler rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This brief cooling helps the layers settle, making it easier to serve. For an extra touch of indulgence, add more chopped pecans on top or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe

Garnishes

Consider garnishing with an additional sprinkle of chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon for a visually appealing and flavor-boosting finish. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can instantly elevate this dish into a luscious dessert experience.

Side Dishes

This cobbler pairs wonderfully with spiced coffees or warm apple cider, making it an ideal dessert after a holiday meal or family dinner. For a more substantial treat, scoop it alongside a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, a classic Southern twist that beautifully contrasts sweet and savory.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve the Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe straight from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style presentation, or portion it out into individual ramekins for an elegant touch. For festive occasions, top each serving with a cinnamon stick or a sprig of fresh thyme to add charm and a hint of herbal aroma.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your cobbler tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld a bit over time, making leftovers just as delightful, if not better.

Freezing

This cobbler freezes beautifully. To freeze, bake as directed, then cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm a whole dish in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out, adding back that freshly baked warmth that’ll make your Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe taste freshly made all over again.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly here and is actually the most common choice. Just be sure to use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.

What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?

If nuts aren’t your thing, you can replace pecans with toasted oats or even shredded coconut for a similar crunchy texture. Alternatively, omit the topping nuts entirely and enjoy it as a classic pumpkin cobbler.

Is it possible to make this cobbler vegan?

Yes! Swap out the butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.

How spicy is this Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe?

The spices provide warmth without overwhelming heat. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a cozy, balanced spice profile ideal for fall, so it’s perfect even for those who don’t love very spicy desserts.

Can I make this cobbler gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of your choice. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for best texture results.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler Recipe is a heartfelt celebration of autumn’s best flavors brought together in one irresistible dish. Every step, from the cozy spices to the crunchy pecan topping, invites you to slow down, savor, and enjoy. Whether you’re baking it for the holidays or just treating yourself on a crisp evening, I promise this cobbler will quickly become a treasured favorite you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, dig in, and let those comforting pumpkin vibes warm your soul.