Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe

Introduction

Imagine the classic, caramel-rich pecan pie that everyone adores but elevated into a warm, comforting cobbler. Pecan Pie Cobbler takes everything delightful about pecan pie—its buttery crust, gooey filling, and crunchy pecan topping—and transforms it into a layered dessert with an irresistible, cake-like texture. It’s the perfect sweet treat to serve during the holidays, at potlucks, or when you’re simply craving a rich and indulgent dessert.

This cobbler is a versatile dessert that can be paired with ice cream, whipped cream, or enjoyed on its own. With its crunchy pecan topping and layers of soft, buttery batter mingling with a gooey, syrupy filling, it’s the ultimate comfort food dessert that’s guaranteed to impress. Let’s walk through every step of making this showstopping recipe!

Ingredients

For the Base Layer:
- 🥛 2 cups whole milk (adds creaminess to the batter)
- 🥄 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for a rich, buttery flavor)
- 🥚 2 large eggs (for structure and moisture)
- 🥄 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (adds warmth and flavor)
- 🥣 2 cups all-purpose flour (the foundation of the batter)
- 🥄 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for a balanced sweetness)
- 🥄 4 teaspoons baking powder (for a light, fluffy texture)
- 🥄 1/2 teaspoon salt (to enhance all the flavors)
For the filling:
- 🥄 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (gives depth and caramel notes)
- 🥄 1 cup dark corn syrup (ensures the gooey texture of the filling)
- 🥄 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (richness in every bite)
- 🥚 3 large eggs, lightly beaten (to set the filling)
- 🥄 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (enhances the overall flavor)
For the topping:
- 🌰 2 cups chopped pecans (the star ingredient, adding crunch and flavor)
- 🥄 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but adds warmth)
- 🥄 1/2 cup hot water (helps the pecans stay moist during baking)

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients for the base layer: melted butter, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Ensure everything is thoroughly combined for a smooth batter.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, sift together the dry ingredients—flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix, as this could lead to a dense texture. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Prepare the filling by whisking together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Carefully pour this syrupy filling over the batter in the baking dish, allowing it to spread evenly.

Step 5: For the topping, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the filling. For added warmth, mix in a pinch of ground cinnamon with the pecans. To ensure the topping remains moist during baking, carefully drizzle hot water over the pecans.

Step 6: Bake the cobbler in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling along the edges. If the cobbler begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for at least 15–20 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the filling to set slightly and makes serving easier.

Variation

Chocolate Pecan Pie Cobbler: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the topping for a rich, indulgent twist.
Maple Pecan Cobbler: Replace the dark corn syrup with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
Salted Caramel Pecan Cobbler: Drizzle caramel sauce over the topping and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty combination.

Cooking Notes

The cobbler will continue to thicken as it cools, so resist the urge to cut into it immediately after baking.
For an extra buttery flavor, brush a tablespoon of melted butter over the top of the cobbler after baking.
Use high-quality pecans for the best flavor. Freshly roasted pecans can enhance the nutty taste and provide an even better crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic pairing.
Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for an elegant touch.
Pair with a glass of sweet dessert wine or hot spiced cider for a festive vibe.

Tips

Toast the pecans lightly in the oven before adding them to the topping for extra flavor.
To make cleanup easier, place the baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any spills.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 480 per serving
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 210mg

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare this cobbler in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can mix the batter and prepare the filling ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake when ready.

Q: Can I substitute dark corn syrup?
A: Yes, you can use light corn syrup, maple syrup, or a combination of honey and molasses for a slightly different flavor.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.

Q: Can I make this cobbler gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Cobbler combines the gooey, nutty decadence of pecan pie with the comforting layers of a cobbler to create a dessert that’s nothing short of heavenly. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special treat, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. Whether you serve it with ice cream, whipped cream, or on its own, it’s guaranteed to delight. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and create a masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!