Pecan Cobbler Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert guaranteed to impress, look no further than Pecan Cobbler. Imagine buttery pecans nestled in a soft, golden crust with a luscious, gooey sauce bubbling underneath—the perfect marriage of pecan pie decadence and cobbler simplicity. This Southern favorite is incredibly easy to make, irresistibly indulgent, and brings a festive touch to any table. Whether it’s served warm from the oven at a family gathering or as a sweet surprise for a weeknight treat, Pecan Cobbler is truly a recipe to treasure.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this cobbler is its reliance on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the final dessert, from the rich nuttiness of pecans to the silky, caramel-like sauce that forms as it bakes.

• Pecans: Chopped pecans are the true star, lending crunchy texture and deep, toasty flavor to every bite.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and keeps the cobbler soft, fluffy, and golden brown.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the batter rises just right, giving you a cake-like top that’s light and tender.
• Salt: Just a touch enhances the sweetness and ties all the flavors together.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps build a crisp golden crust on top.
• Brown Sugar: Creates a rich, molasses-y layer that melts into the pecans and sauce below.
• Milk: Brings together the dry ingredients, making for a smooth batter and tender crumb.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted for easy blending, it adds unbeatable richness and helps achieve that crave-worthy, buttery finish.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla infuses warmth and an inviting aroma throughout the dessert.
• Hot Water: Poured on top (trust the process!), it magically transforms into a silky, caramel pecan sauce under the cobbler.

How to Make Pecan Cobbler

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your dish goes in. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly—this helps your cobbler come out effortlessly and makes cleanup a breeze. Spread out the chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the dish; this simple step ensures their unmistakable crunch in every single serving.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture just until smooth, making sure there are no dry pockets left behind. The batter should be glossy and pourable, with a wonderful aroma of vanilla and brown sugar already hinting at the flavors to come.

Step 3: Layer the Batter Over Pecans

Carefully pour the prepared batter over the pecans in your baking dish. Try to distribute it as evenly as possible, but don’t stress if you see a few exposed nuts—the magic of cobbler is in its rustic, homey presentation.

Step 4: Add the Hot Water (No Stirring!)

Now for the trick that makes Pecan Cobbler extra special: gently pour the hot water over the batter. Do not stir! It may look odd, but the liquid will sink through, creating steam as it bakes and forming a luscious, gooey sauce beneath the tender crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cobbler in your preheated oven for 40–45 minutes. As it cooks, the top will puff and turn golden brown, while delicious pools of pecan-caramel form underneath. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly! You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the top looks beautifully golden.

How to Serve Pecan Cobbler

Garnishes

Dress up your Pecan Cobbler with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream—the cool creaminess is perfect with the warm, syrupy dessert. Whipped cream also makes a classic, cloud-like topping. For a holiday flair, sprinkle on a pinch of cinnamon, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a handful of toasted pecan halves.

Side Dishes

If you’d like to turn this Southern dessert into a full occasion, pair it with freshly brewed coffee or a cup of hot spiced tea. A fruit salad or a bowl of berries on the side adds a light, colorful contrast to the richness of the cobbler.

Creative Ways to Present

For special gatherings, serve Pecan Cobbler in individual ramekins for a charming, single-serve presentation. You can also layer it up as a parfait—crumbled cobbler, whipped cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce in a glass for a fun, elegant twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Pecan Cobbler will keep beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent the top from getting soggy, let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid.

Freezing

Pecan Cobbler freezes surprisingly well. Once fully cooled, cut into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag or container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and enjoying.

Reheating

For those irresistible warm servings, heat your cobbler in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Individual servings can be warmed in the microwave in 20–30 second bursts, just until hot but not overcooked. Top with fresh ice cream or cream right before serving for the ultimate treat.

FAQs

Can I use whole or halved pecans instead of chopped?

Absolutely! Whole or halved pecans add even more texture and create an attractive top layer. Try mixing chopped and halved nuts for an extra-special touch.

Is it normal for the batter to look runny before baking?

Yes, the batter will be thinner than typical cake batter, and pouring hot water on top might seem odd. Trust the process—it’s key to forming that signature gooey, pecan-loaded sauce beneath the crust.

Can I make Pecan Cobbler ahead of time?

You can make the cobbler a day in advance. Simply let it cool completely, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat before serving to restore its delicious, just-baked warmth and texture.

What’s the best way to ensure a gooey center?

Don’t stir after you pour the hot water on top, and keep an eye on the baking time; pulling the cobbler when the top is just set but still soft ensures the bottom stays lovely and gooey.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?

Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the batter adds cozy warmth and depth, making Pecan Cobbler especially inviting during the holidays or chilly months.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about gathering around a bubbling dish of homemade Pecan Cobbler. Whether you serve it for a special holiday or a simple weeknight indulgence, this recipe delivers all the nostalgia and comfort you crave. I hope you give it a try—your family and friends will absolutely love every decadent, nutty bite!

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