Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe

Warm & Buttery Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe for Fall Nights

Southern kitchens buzz with excitement over this delectable pecan pie cobbler recipe that blends classic dessert magic with rustic charm.

Buttery, golden layers melt together in a dance of sweet indulgence.

Warm, gooey pecans nestle into a rich, caramelized base that promises pure comfort.

Each spoonful delivers a symphony of textures that dances between crisp and creamy.

The dessert whispers tales of grandmother’s kitchen and Sunday afternoon gatherings.

Robust pecans and silky caramel create a decadent experience that transforms an ordinary meal into a celebration.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this irresistible Southern treasure.

Why Pecan Pie Cobbler Shines

Why Pecan Pie Cobbler Shines
  • Transforms the classic pecan pie into a rustic, gooey cobbler that delivers pure warmth and nostalgia with its rich, caramelized layers.
  • Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners, this dessert comes together faster than traditional pie while offering maximum flavor and wow factor.
  • Uses simple pantry ingredients and a brilliant layering method that creates its own decadent sauce without complicated mixing or precise techniques.

Ingredients for Pecan Pie Cobbler

Main Ingredients:

Cobbler Base:
  • Butter: Provides a rich, golden foundation for the cobbler's delicious texture.
  • Flour: Creates the structural base for the cobbler batter.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cobbler base.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the batter rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Milk: Brings moisture and helps bind the dry ingredients together.
  • Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cobbler.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Pecans: Adds a classic nutty crunch and traditional pecan pie flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: Creates a caramelized, gooey layer with deep sweetness.
  • Boiling Water: Helps develop a rich, caramel-like sauce underneath the cobbler.
Serving Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream, Sugar, Vanilla: Combines to make a light and fluffy whipped cream topping that complements the warm cobbler.

Instructions for Pecan Pie Cobbler

Instructions for Pecan Pie Cobbler

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Heat the oven to 350°F.

Place a large-rimmed baking sheet on the bottom rack to catch any potential drips during baking.

Step 2: Create Buttery Base

Slice butter into a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Slide the dish into the preheating oven to melt the butter, creating a rich foundation for the cobbler.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together:
  • Flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Baking powder

Mix until thoroughly blended.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Components

Pour into the dry mixture:
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 5: Layer the Batter

Remove the melted butter dish from the oven.

Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter over the melted butter.

Do not stir – the layers will naturally form during baking.

Step 6: Sprinkle Nutty Goodness

Evenly distribute across the batter:
  • Chopped pecans
  • Brown sugar

This creates a delectable caramelized topping.

Step 7: Add Magical Water

Carefully pour boiling water over the entire cobbler.

The liquid might look odd, but it’s crucial for developing a gooey caramel-like layer underneath.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole dish on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top turns golden brown and sets.

Step 9: Whip Up Creamy Topping

While the cobbler cools on a wire rack for 30-45 minutes, prepare the whipped cream.

Using a mixer, whip together:
  • Heavy cream
  • Sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Beat on medium-high speed until medium peaks form, typically 3-4 minutes.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop warm pecan pie cobbler into bowls.

Top with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Savor every delightful bite!

Tips to Perfect Pecan Pie Cobbler

Tips to Perfect Pecan Pie Cobbler
  • Carefully monitor the butter while melting to avoid scorching, ensuring a rich golden base without bitter undertones.
  • Use a rimmed baking sheet underneath to catch potential drips, keeping your oven clean and preventing messy spills during baking.
  • Toast pecans briefly before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and create a deeper, more complex taste profile in the cobbler.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and whisk beforehand for faster, fluffier whipped cream that holds its shape beautifully when served.
  • Allow the cobbler to rest for 30-45 minutes after baking, letting the caramel-like layer set and develop richer, more intense flavors before serving.

Storing & Reheating Pecan Pie Cobbler

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
  • Wrap the cooled cobbler securely in plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the whipped cream.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning, then warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Heat individual portions for 30-45 seconds. Add a fresh dollop of whipped cream or ice cream just before serving to revive the dessert's texture and temperature.

Tasty Matches for Pecan Pie Cobbler

  • Savor Sweet Harmony: Pecan Pie Cobbler Pairings
  • Brew Complementary Comfort: Pair this decadent dessert with a rich, medium-roast coffee that highlights the caramel notes and cuts through the sweetness. The warm, robust coffee creates a perfect counterpoint to the gooey pecan layers.
  • Match Creamy Coolness: Vanilla bean ice cream provides the ultimate companion, offering a smooth, cold contrast to the warm, sticky cobbler. Its subtle sweetness and silky texture elevate each delightful spoonful.
  • Explore Nutty Whispers: Serve alongside a small glass of bourbon or aged whiskey, which brings out the deep, toasted pecan flavors. The spirit's caramel undertones and slight burn complement the dessert's rich, complex profile, creating a sophisticated tasting experience.
  • Embrace Textural Contrast: Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes to enhance the cobbler's sweetness and add a subtle crunch. This unexpected element brings depth and balance to the dessert's luxurious layers.

Fun Variations of Pecan Pie Cobbler

  • Gluten-Free Cobbler: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same texture and taste for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Pecan Delight: Swap butter for coconut oil, use almond milk instead of dairy milk, and top with coconut whipped cream to create a plant-based version of the classic dessert.
  • Keto-Friendly Version: Substitute granulated sugar with erythritol or stevia, use almond flour instead of regular flour, and add chopped macadamia nuts for a low-carb alternative that maintains the rich, nutty flavor profile.
  • Maple Pecan Variation: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup and add a touch of cinnamon to enhance the warm, autumnal flavors of the traditional pecan pie cobbler.

FAQs

  • Why do I pour boiling water over the cobbler?

The boiling water creates a magical caramel-like sauce that forms underneath the cobbler as it bakes, giving the dessert its signature rich and gooey texture without needing to make a separate caramel sauce.

  • Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts work great as a substitute and will provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor profile to the cobbler.

  • Is this recipe considered easy for beginner bakers?

Yes, this pecan pie cobbler is super beginner-friendly. It requires minimal technique, no complicated steps, and most home cooks can easily master this recipe with basic baking skills.

  • How do I know when the cobbler is fully baked?

Look for a golden brown top that appears set and slightly firm. The edges should be bubbling, and the cobbler should have a slightly crisp top with a gooey underneath layer.

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Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe

Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe


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4.6 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Southern comfort meets sweet indulgence in this Pecan Pie Cobbler, blending traditional pie flavors with rustic cobbler charm. Buttery pecans and rich caramel create a luscious dessert that wraps you in warm, nostalgic deliciousness.


Ingredients

Scale

Pecans and Base:

  • 1.5 cups (188g) chopped pecans or pecan halves
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (213g) packed light brown sugar
  • 1.5 cups (355ml) boiling water

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups (160g) all-purpose flour (use gluten-free if desired)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon fleur de sel or flaky sea salt

Wet Ingredients and Dairy:

  • 0.5 cup (113g) unsalted butter, sliced into chunks
  • 0.66 cup (157ml) whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

Whipped Cream:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • Seeds from 1 vanilla bean, or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

Serving:

  • Homemade whipped cream and/or vanilla ice cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and position a large-rimmed baking sheet on the bottom rack to catch potential drips.
  2. Place sliced butter in a 9×13-inch casserole dish and melt it in the preheating oven, creating a rich, flavorful foundation for the cobbler.
  3. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder until well integrated.
  4. Incorporate milk and vanilla into the dry ingredients, whisking gently until just combined without overmixing.
  5. Remove the melted butter dish from the oven and delicately drop spoonfuls of batter over the butter, allowing the layers to naturally form during baking.
  6. Distribute chopped pecans evenly across the batter, then generously sprinkle brown sugar to create a caramelized topping.
  7. Carefully pour boiling water over the entire cobbler, which will create a luscious, caramel-like layer beneath the surface.
  8. Bake on the prepared baking sheet for 30-35 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and set texture.
  9. Allow the cobbler to cool on a wire rack for 30-45 minutes, simultaneously whipping heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla on medium-high speed until medium peaks form.
  10. Serve the warm cobbler in individual bowls, garnishing with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Notes

  • Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to catch drips and prevent potential burnt butter mess on the oven floor.
  • Adjust sugar levels by reducing granulated or brown sugar for a less sweet version, perfect for those watching sugar intake.
  • Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive diners without compromising texture.
  • Toast pecans briefly in a dry skillet before adding to intensify their rich, roasted taste and add depth to the dessert.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 427
  • Sugar: 34g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 79mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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