There's something magical about the aroma of a pecan pie cobbler baking in the oven. That rich buttery scent mixed with caramelized pecans and brown sugar creates an perfume that fills your home with warmth. As a devoted baker who's tested countless variations of this southern classic, I'm excited to share my favorite pecan pie cobbler recipe that combines the best elements of two beloved desserts: the gooey, nutty goodness of pecan pie and the comforting, homey texture of a cobbler.
Why You'll Love This Pecan Pie Cobbler
This isn't just any dessert recipe - it's the kind of southern pecan pie cobbler that makes people ask for the recipe before they've even finished their first bite. Unlike traditional pecan pie that demands perfect crust-making skills, this cobbler version gives you all that gooey, nutty flavor with half the effort. The magic happens as it bakes - the simple batter transforms into three distinct layers: a tender cake-like bottom, a custard middle, and a caramelized pecan topping that rivals the best offerings from Taste of Home or the Pioneer Woman.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Need a no-crust option? This is it. Looking for an old-fashioned pecan pie cobbler that tastes like it came from your grandmother's kitchen? You've found it. The Fisher Nuts company might even approve of how beautifully the pecans caramelize on top! Plus, this recipe works beautifully with or without cake mix, depending on how much time you have and what's in your pantry.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Pecan Pie Cobbler
- Ingredients For Pecan Pie Cobbler
- How to Make Pecan Pie Cobbler
- Substitutions
- Variations
- Equipment For Pecan Pie Cobbler
- Storage
- What to Serve With Pecan Pie Cobbler
- Top Tip
- Grandmama's Magic Touch
- FAQ
- Pecan Pie Cobbler That Never Lets You Down!
- Related
- Pairing
- Pecan Pie Cobbler
Ingredients For Pecan Pie Cobbler
For the Cobbler Base:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Vanilla extract
For the Pecan Pie Filling:
- Pecan halves (or 1½ cups chopped pecans)
- Brown sugar, packed
- Hot water
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon (optional)
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cobbler
This easy cobbler recipe comes together in just minutes of hands-on time. The magic happens in the oven as the layers separate and transform into a southern dessert that rivals any traditional pecan pie.
Prepare Your Kitchen (5 minutes)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Gather all ingredients and measuring tools to streamline the process.
Create the Cobbler Base (10 minutes)
- Whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Stir until just combined – don't overmix! The batter should be smooth but not beaten.
- Spread this mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. This forms the foundation of your buttery crust.
Add the Pecan Pie Layer (5 minutes)
- Combine the chopped pecans and brown sugar in a separate bowl.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter layer. Try to create an even distribution of nuts across the entire dish.
- Mix the hot water with the second teaspoon of vanilla extract and optional cinnamon.
- Pour this liquid carefully over the entire dish.
Bake to Perfection (35-40 minutes)
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The cobbler is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Watch for the telltale signs of doneness: a slightly firm top with bubbling caramel around the edges.
- Test by inserting a knife near the center – it should come out with some moist crumbs but not completely wet batter.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the cobbler to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This cooling time is crucial for the perfect texture – just like in old-fashioned pecan pie cobbler recipes.
- Scoop generous portions into dessert bowls.
- Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Substitutions
- Make it with cake mix: For a shortcut version of this pecan pie cobbler recipe, substitute the flour mixture with a yellow cake mix. Just spread the dry mix in your pan and continue with the recipe.
- Dairy alternatives: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version of this southern pecan pie cobbler.
- Nut options: While traditional pecan cobbler pie recipe calls for pecan halves, you can use chopped pecans for easier eating. For those with allergies, walnuts make a good substitute in this recipe for pecan pie cobbler.
- Sweetener swaps: Reduce sugar by ¼ cup for a less sweet version, or substitute coconut sugar for a different flavor profile in your homemade cobbler.
- Add-ins: Some old-fashioned pecan pie cobbler recipes include a splash of bourbon or 2 tablespoons of molasses for enhanced flavor depth.
Variations
Southern Pecan Pie Cobbler
For an authentic southern pecan pie cobbler, add 2 tablespoons of molasses to the brown sugar mixture. This creates that distinctive deep flavor that makes this dessert such a beloved comfort food across the South.
Pecan Pie Cobbler with Cake Mix
Looking for an even easier version similar to what Katie Cross might make? Simply substitute the homemade base with a yellow cake mix. Sprinkle the dry cake mix directly into your greased baking dish, add the pecan topping, then pour 1½ cups of melted butter (instead of hot water) over everything before baking.
No-Crust Pecan Pie Cobbler
One of the best features of this recipe is that it's already a no-crust pecan pie cobbler! The batter creates its own crust as it bakes, making this perfect for those who find traditional pie crust challenging or time-consuming.
Fisher Nuts Special
For a variation inspired by Fisher Nuts recipes, toast your pecans for 5-7 minutes at 350°F before adding them to the mixture. This simple step enhances the nutty flavor and adds extra crunch to your sweet pecan topping.
Equipment For Pecan Pie Cobbler
- 9x13-inch baking dish (glass or ceramic works great)
- Mixing bowls (one medium, one small)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Oven mitts (things get hot!)
Storage
This pecan pie cobbler keeps beautifully, making it perfect for holiday meal prep or enjoying leftovers for days after. Here's how to keep that gooey pecan topping and buttery crust tasting freshly baked:
How to Store Leftover Pecan Pie Cobbler
- Counter Storage (1-2 days): Allow the cobbler to cool completely, then cover with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, maintaining that soft, slightly gooey texture.
- Refrigerator Storage (up to 5 days): For longer storage, cover the baking dish tightly or transfer portions to airtight containers. The caramelized pecan layer will firm up slightly when chilled, but this doesn't affect the flavor.
What to Serve With Pecan Pie Cobbler
This southern comfort dessert deserves the perfect accompaniments to enhance its rich, caramelized flavor. Here are some delicious pairings that complement the warm, gooey texture of pecan pie cobbler:
Classic Toppings
Nothing elevates a warm scoop of pecan pie cobbler like a contrasting cold, creamy topping. A generous dollop of homemade whipped cream slowly melting into the warm caramelized pecans creates a heavenly texture contrast. For an even more indulgent experience, add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream – the cold creaminess against the warm, buttery cobbler is absolutely divine.
Complementary Beverages
Balance the sweetness of this rich dessert with the perfect beverage:
- Coffee: A strong, hot cup of black coffee provides the perfect bitter counterpoint to the sweet pecan topping.
- Bourbon: A small glass of neat bourbon or whiskey brings out the caramelized notes in the brown sugar pecans.
- Hot Apple Cider: For a fall-perfect pairing, serve with spiced apple cider to create a cozy dessert experience.
- Milk: Sometimes simple is best – a cold glass of milk helps cut through the richness of this baked pecan dessert.
Top Tip
The secret to truly exceptional pecan pie cobbler lies in one crucial step that many recipes miss: Don't stir after pouring the hot water!
When you add the hot water over your layers, it might seem wrong - like you're going to ruin everything. Your instinct will be to mix it all together, but resist this urge! The water creates the magical transformation that separates this dessert into distinct layers as it bakes: a cake-like bottom, custard middle, and that signature caramelized pecan topping that makes this dessert so irresistible.
For extra flavor depth, toast your pecans before adding them to the mixture. Just 5-7 minutes in a 350°F oven brings out their natural oils and enhances their nutty flavor profile, taking this southern dessert from good to unforgettable.
Grandmama's Magic Touch
My grandmother's old-fashioned pecan pie cobbler had a secret that transformed this southern dessert into something truly magical. While most recipes call for just water and sugar, Grandmama would add two tablespoons of dark molasses and a splash of bourbon to her hot water mixture. "That's what makes the pecans dance," she'd say with a wink, as she poured the liquid over the layers without stirring – a technique the Pioneer Woman herself would approve of.
On special occasions, she'd sprinkle a handful of toffee bits among the pecans, creating pockets of buttery caramel that melted into the filling. Unlike some no-crust versions, Grandmama insisted on using Fisher Nuts pecans, meticulously arranging half on the bottom and half on top for the perfect balance in every bite.
When you make this recipe, try adding that splash of molasses and bourbon to your hot water. The subtle complexity it brings to the caramelized pecan topping is truly transformative – and I'd love to hear if it makes your family close their eyes in appreciation just like mine always did.
FAQ
What makes a cobbler different from a pie?
A cobbler and a pie are distinctly different desserts. A pie features a bottom crust (and sometimes a top crust) that completely encases the filling. A cobbler, however, typically has a batter, biscuit, or dough topping and no bottom crust. In this pecan pie cobbler recipe, we get the best of both worlds - the gooey, nutty filling of a pecan pie combined with the easier preparation method of a cobbler, creating distinct layers as it bakes rather than requiring a rolled-out crust.
Can I eat 2 week old pecan pie?
No, it's not safe to eat 2 week old pecan pie or pecan pie cobbler. For food safety, this dessert should be refrigerated and consumed within 5 days. While properly frozen portions can last up to 3 months, once thawed, they should be eaten within a few days. Always check for signs of spoilage like off smells, mold, or significant texture changes before consuming stored desserts.
Is it better to use light or dark Karo syrup for pecan pie?
Traditional pecan pie recipes often call for Karo syrup, with light creating a milder flavor and dark providing a more robust, molasses-like taste. The good news about this pecan pie cobbler is that it doesn't require any corn syrup at all! The recipe uses brown sugar to create that signature gooey texture and rich caramel flavor without needing to choose between light or dark syrups.
What is pecan cobbler?
Pecan cobbler is a delicious dessert that combines elements of both pecan pie and traditional fruit cobblers. It features a cake-like base topped with a mixture of pecans, brown sugar, and butter that transforms during baking into a gooey, caramelized layer similar to pecan pie filling. Unlike traditional southern fruit cobblers that typically have fruit on the bottom and biscuit-like topping, pecan cobbler creates distinct layers with the pecans rising to form a crispy, sweet topping. It's essentially a simplified, no-fuss version of pecan pie with all the same wonderful flavors.
Pecan Pie Cobbler That Never Lets You Down!
There you have it – a pecan pie cobbler that marries the best of both dessert worlds into one irresistible, soul-warming treat. Whether you're making it for a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening, this dessert delivers that perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. I'd love to hear how your version turns out – especially if you try Grandmama's molasses trick! Leave a comment sharing your experience or any special touches you added to make this southern classic your own.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our Almond Pastry , Mock Apple Pie, or Guava Cheese Pastry for more sweet inspiration. Nothing quite compares to the magic of homemade pecan pie cobbler – where every bite tells a story of southern tradition and sweet satisfaction.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Pecan Pie Cobbler
Pecan Pie Cobbler
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish (Glass or ceramic recommended)
- Mixing bowls (One medium, one small)
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula or wooden spoon (For mixing)
- Oven mitts (Safety when removing from oven)
Ingredients
For the Cobbler Base:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter - melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pecan Pie Filling:
- 2 cups pecan halves - or 1½ cups chopped pecans
- 1½ cups brown sugar - packed
- 1½ cups hot water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon - optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk, butter, vanilla.
- Pour batter into the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Mix brown sugar and pecans, sprinkle evenly over batter.
- Mix hot water, vanilla, and cinnamon. Pour over dish without stirring.
- Bake 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let sit for 15–20 minutes to set layers before serving.
- Scoop into bowls and top with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
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