Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler – Warm, Gooey, and Perfect for Fall

Pumpkin pecan cobbler is a comforting dessert that captures all the best flavors of autumn. Imagine a layer of spiced pumpkin cake topped with a rich, buttery pecan crust and a gooey caramel sauce bubbling underneath. Every bite is warm, sweet, and slightly nutty—pure fall perfection. I remember making this recipe on a chilly October evening, and the smell alone was enough to draw everyone into the kitchen. The combination of pumpkin spice and toasted pecans makes it irresistible, and it’s surprisingly easy to put together. You don’t need any fancy equipment or baking skills—just mix, pour, and bake. I’ve even tried adding a splash of maple syrup to the batter once, and it made the flavor even more comforting. Serve this cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and you’ve got the ultimate seasonal treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pumpkin pecan cobbler has everything you want in a fall dessert: warmth, spice, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The top is tender like a pumpkin cake, while the bottom transforms into a silky caramel sauce as it bakes. The toasted pecans add crunch and depth, balancing the sweetness perfectly. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a cozy weekend dinner, or a potluck, this cobbler is guaranteed to impress.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour – The base of the cobbler batter that keeps the texture soft and cake-like.

Pumpkin puree – The star ingredient that gives the cobbler its warm, earthy flavor. Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

Brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a touch of molasses for a deep, caramel-like flavor.

Granulated sugar – Balances the brown sugar and enhances the overall sweetness.

Baking powder – Helps the cobbler rise and stay light.

Pumpkin pie spice – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that creates that cozy autumn aroma.

Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.

Milk – Adds moisture to the batter for a tender texture.

Melted butter – Brings richness and a buttery undertone to the dessert.

Chopped pecans – Add crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the creamy pumpkin layer beautifully.

Hot water – When poured over the top, it creates a self-saucing caramel layer as the cobbler bakes.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish and set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, and melted butter. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared dish.

In a separate small bowl, mix additional brown sugar and chopped pecans, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. Carefully pour hot water over the entire surface—do not stir. It may seem unusual, but this step creates the rich caramel sauce at the bottom during baking.

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and set but the bottom is bubbling with syrupy sauce. Let it cool slightly before serving. The cobbler will thicken as it rests, with the sauce settling perfectly beneath the soft pumpkin cake layer. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a truly decadent experience.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
• large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
• Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
• Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
• Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
• knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
• Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm before serving. To keep the sauce gooey, drizzle a little water or milk over the cobbler before reheating. You can also freeze it for up to a month—thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Maple Pumpkin Cobbler – Replace some of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer flavor.

Pecan Streusel Topping – Add oats and extra butter to the topping for a crumbly, textured finish.

Chocolate Twist – Sprinkle chocolate chips over the batter before baking for a decadent surprise.

Coconut Pumpkin Cobbler – Mix shredded coconut into the topping for a tropical touch.

Vegan Option – Use coconut milk instead of regular milk and vegan butter instead of dairy.

Nut-Free Version – Omit the pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Bourbon-Infused Cobbler – Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the batter for a subtle warmth and depth.

FAQs

Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day ahead and reheat it just before serving.

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?

No, use pure pumpkin puree to control the sweetness and spices.

Why pour hot water on top?

It creates a self-saucing caramel layer as the cobbler bakes.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts are a great substitute and offer a similar texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger baking dish and increase baking time by 10–15 minutes.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

What can I serve with this cobbler?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce pair beautifully.

How do I know when it’s done?

The top should be golden and the sauce bubbling underneath.

Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

Yes, almond milk or oat milk works perfectly.

How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the sugar by ¼ cup, and the flavor will still be rich and balanced.

Conclusion

Pumpkin pecan cobbler is the epitome of a cozy fall dessert—warm, gooey, and full of spice. The combination of creamy pumpkin, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel sauce makes every bite unforgettable. It’s an easy, no-fuss recipe that delivers comfort in every spoonful. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and seasonal, this cobbler brings the essence of autumn right to your table. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it all season long.