Imagine the gooey, caramel-packed flavor of classic pecan pie layered with the easy, comforting style of a cobbler—welcome to Pecan Pie Cobbler bliss! This Southern-inspired dessert brings together golden, buttery cake, toasty pecans, and a surprise layer of sticky brown sugar sauce, all bubbling away under a golden crust. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, the Pecan Pie Cobbler turns any dinner into a sweet celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pecan Pie Cobbler comes together with a handful of pantry staples, yet each one has a crucial part to play. Every ingredient adds something special, from irresistible crunch to sweet, syrupy goo your spoon will love to dive into.
- All-purpose flour: The base of your batter, flour creates the tender cobbler texture that soaks up all that caramel goodness.
- Baking powder: Gives your cobbler an irresistible lift and fluffiness.
- Salt: Just enough to balance out the sweetness and make the pecans pop.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a classic sweetness to the cobbler batter.
- Whole milk: Makes for a rich, moist base—use whole for best flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth, making every bite reminiscent of pecan pie.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Gives the cobbler its golden, buttery backbone.
- Coarsely chopped pecans: The star of the show—use fresh pecans for the best crunch.
- Packed light brown sugar: Melts into a caramel sauce at the bottom, giving the cobbler classic pecan pie vibes.
- Hot water: Don’t skip this step—the water creates the magical self-saucing effect you’ll crave every time.
- Vanilla ice cream (optional): For serving, because warm cobbler and cold ice cream are a match made in dessert heaven.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cobbler
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a moment to savor this: your kitchen is about to smell amazing! Get out a 9×13-inch baking dish—no need to grease, because the melted butter works its magic.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Add the milk and vanilla extract, stirring just until everything is combined. Resist the urge to over-mix; a gentle hand means a tender cobbler.
Step 3: Layer the Butter and Batter
Pour the melted butter straight into your baking dish—don’t be shy, it’s the start of that luscious cobbler base. Next, gently pour the batter on top of the butter. Important: do not stir! The layering is key to the signature texture of Pecan Pie Cobbler.
Step 4: Add Pecans and Brown Sugar
Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans all over the batter, making sure every corner gets a bit of nutty goodness. Next, sprinkle the brown sugar for that signature caramel swirl. The brown sugar settles in as it bakes, forming a sweet, saucy layer just like in classic pecan pie.
Step 5: Pour Hot Water (But Don’t Stir!)
Carefully pour the hot water over the entire dish. It may look unusual, but trust the process—this step creates the magic caramel sauce that lurks at the bottom of every great Pecan Pie Cobbler. Again, don’t stir a thing!
Step 6: Bake and Rest
Slide your masterpiece into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and looks set. You’ll know it’s ready when the cobbler is beautifully toasty on top and bubbling around the edges. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before serving, which helps the sauce thicken up and gives you time to grab the ice cream.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cobbler

Garnishes
The ultimate finish for Pecan Pie Cobbler is a big, creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into every nook and cranny. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or an extra sprinkle of toasted pecans to take it over the top. The cold-hot contrast and that smooth sauce are irresistible!
Side Dishes
Since this dessert is decadently sweet, pair it with something simple on the side, like fresh fruit or a steaming mug of coffee or tea. If serving at a holiday meal, a little bowl of fruit salad alongside keeps the table light and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, serve the Pecan Pie Cobbler in individual ramekins for an upscale twist, or layer it parfait-style in glasses with vanilla ice cream and extra pecans. For family gatherings, leave it rustic in the baking dish—everyone loves to dig in and share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once everyone has finished, store leftovers of your Pecan Pie Cobbler covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. A snug layer of plastic wrap or foil keeps it moist and flavorful for snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
Pecan Pie Cobbler freezes surprisingly well! Wrap individual portions tightly or store in an airtight container, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’ll be ready for a spontaneous dessert moment any time.
Reheating
For best results, reheat individual servings of Pecan Pie Cobbler in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm a larger portion in a 300°F oven until heated through. Add a scoop of ice cream straight from the oven or microwave for that just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pecans that are already chopped?
Absolutely! Store-bought chopped pecans save time, and they toast up beautifully in the cobbler. Just make sure they’re fresh and unsalted for the best flavor.
Is it okay to substitute margarine for butter?
You can use margarine, but for the richest, most authentic Pecan Pie Cobbler flavor, real unsalted butter can’t be beat. The depth and aroma butter brings is truly worth it.
Can I make Pecan Pie Cobbler ahead of time for a holiday meal?
Yes! Bake it up to one day in advance, then gently reheat just before serving. The flavors deepen overnight, and it still tastes incredible with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How will I know when the cobbler is done baking?
The top should be golden brown, slightly crisp around the edges, and the whole dessert should look set. The bubbly edges are a good sign that your Pecan Pie Cobbler is ready to come out.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute a good 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the all-purpose and check your baking powder is gluten-free. The results are still deliciously gooey and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as impressive as it is soul-warming, look no further than Pecan Pie Cobbler. The gooey caramel, buttery cake, and nutty crunch make it an unforgettable treat. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite way to enjoy pecan pie!
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Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious blend of pecan pie and cobbler with this easy-to-make Pecan Pie Cobbler. A perfect dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped pecans
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
- Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the milk and vanilla extract, stirring until just combined.
- Prepare the cobbler: Pour melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the batter over the butter without stirring. Sprinkle pecans and brown sugar over the batter. Carefully pour hot water over the mixture without stirring.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and set. Rest for 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with optional vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- The hot water creates a rich caramel sauce under the cobbler.
- Avoid stirring after layering for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg