If you’ve ever wished for the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie but crave something a little more moist and cake-like, this Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe is going to become your new favorite dessert obsession. It beautifully blends the gooey sweetness of classic pecan pie filling with the tender, fluffy texture of a Southern-style cobbler, making every bite a perfect balance of sticky, crunchy, and buttery all in one dish. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy family night, this cobbler delivers warm, comforting nostalgia with a delightful twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are deceptively simple but each plays a crucial role in making this cobbler irresistible — from the syrupy sweetness and nutty punch to the light and airy cake topping.
- Light corn syrup (1 cup): Adds that glossy, smooth sweetness typical of pecan pie filling.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Provides rich caramel undertones and deep flavor.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted + 1/2 cup melted for baking dish): Brings buttery richness and ensures a luscious texture inside and out.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Enhances all the warm, comforting flavors with a subtle aromatic note.
- Large eggs (4, lightly beaten): Help bind the filling and lend a creamy, custard-like body.
- Chopped pecans (2 cups): Offer crunch and that signature nutty flavor everyone loves.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Forms the tender cobbler batter base.
- Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Leavens the batter for a soft, cake-like rise.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and highlights the depth of flavors.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds moisture to the batter and contributes to the tender crumb.
- Boiling water (1 1/2 cups): Pours over the layered batter and pecan filling to create that signature bubbly, gooey transformation while baking.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour ½ cup of the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish, and carefully tilt the pan in all directions to coat the bottom evenly. This buttery layer will form the deliciously crisp base that contrasts with the fluffy topping.
Step 2: Make the Cobbler Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and milk until you have a smooth batter. Pour this batter gently over the melted butter in the baking dish — be sure not to stir, so the layers will stay distinct during baking.
Step 3: Mix the Pecan Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the light corn syrup, brown sugar, ½ cup melted butter, vanilla extract, and lightly beaten eggs. Stir everything together until smooth, then fold in the chopped pecans. This mixture will create the luscious, nut-filled layer on top of the cobbler batter.
Step 4: Assemble and Add Boiling Water
Carefully spoon the pecan mixture evenly over the cold batter in the baking dish — again, avoid stirring to maintain the separate layers. Next, slowly pour the boiling water over the entire dish; this magical step helps cook the batter from the top and create the gooey texture this Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe is famous for.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown, bubbly, and set in the center. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle beautifully.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
This Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe shines when paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cold creaminess balances the warm, sticky cobbler perfectly, elevating it to pure indulgence. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few extra chopped toasted pecans on top right before serving for crunch and an inviting aroma.
Side Dishes
Because this dessert is rich and filling, light accompaniments like fresh fruit slices or a simple mixed green salad are great options to serve alongside, especially during larger holiday meals. For a heartier celebration, a modest cheese platter or spiced cider complements the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the cobbler family-style in the baking dish for a cozy vibe, or use individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. You can also drizzle warmed caramel sauce or honey on top for extra decadence. For a festive look, dust with powdered sugar and add a sprig of fresh mint or cinnamon sticks as garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will mellow and develop even more, though the crisp topping might soften. Just reheat gently to recapture some of the original warmth and gooeyness.
Freezing
You can freeze this cobbler for up to one month. Wrap the cooled dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that freezing may slightly affect the texture of the topping, making it less crisp but still delicious.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds or warm the entire dish covered with foil in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes. Add a few extra pecans on top before reheating for added texture and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans give this cobbler its classic Southern flair, you can swap in walnuts or hazelnuts if preferred. Just make sure to chop them roughly for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum, you should get excellent results. Keep the other ingredients the same for that signature flavor.
Why do I pour boiling water over the batter and pecan filling?
The boiling water helps cook the batter from above and combines with the pecan mixture to form that delicious, gooey layer unique to this cobbler. It’s the key step that makes this dessert so special.
Can I prepare the batter and pecan filling in advance?
You can mix the batter and pecan filling separately and refrigerate them overnight, but assemble and pour boiling water right before baking for the best texture and rise.
What’s the best way to serve this for a crowd?
This recipe serves about 10, so prepare it in a 9×13-inch dish and serve it warm, straight from the pan with spoons for everyone to dig in family-style. Adding vanilla ice cream is always a crowd-pleaser!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe that merges the soulful flavors of a pecan pie with the comforting, cozy texture of a cobbler. It’s a dessert you’ll want to make again and again for family gatherings, holidays, or just because you deserve a sweet treat. So go on, give it a try — your taste buds will thank you for it!
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: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Pie Cobbler is a delightful Southern dessert that combines the rich, gooey flavors of pecan pie with a light, fluffy cake topping. This easy-to-make casserole-style dessert features a sweet pecan filling layered under a buttery cake batter, which bakes up into a beautiful golden brown treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a cozy, comforting dessert, it pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
For the Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Pecan Mixture
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs (lightly beaten)
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Other
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted, for baking dish)
- 1 ½ cups boiling water
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour ½ cup of melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and tilt to coat the bottom evenly, ensuring the base of the cobbler will have a rich buttery flavor.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and milk until the batter is smooth with no lumps. Pour this batter over the melted butter in the baking dish without stirring, allowing it to settle evenly.
- Mix the Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the light corn syrup, brown sugar, ½ cup melted butter, vanilla extract, and lightly beaten eggs. Stir in the chopped pecans, making sure they are evenly coated with the sweet syrup mixture.
- Layer the Pecan Mixture: Carefully spoon the pecan mixture evenly over the batter layer in the baking dish. Do not stir; the layers should remain separate to create a distinct texture contrast.
- Add Boiling Water: Gently pour the boiling water over the entire dish, covering all ingredients. This step helps create a gooey, pie-like bottom while the cake batter rises to the top as it bakes.
- Bake the Cobbler: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The cobbler should appear bubbly and slightly firm when done.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set for easier slicing and enhances the flavors. Serve warm, ideally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat.
Notes
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic Southern experience.
- The cobbler develops a gooey pecan pie-like base beneath a fluffy, cake-like topping, providing delightful contrasting textures.
- Do not stir layers after adding pecan mixture and boiling water to preserve texture separation.
- Use a baking dish size of 9×13 inches for best results.
