If you’re looking for a dessert that brings the warmth of the South right to your kitchen table, this Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe is everything you didn’t know you needed. It’s a magical blend of sticky, gooey pecan pie filling mingling perfectly beneath a light, fluffy cake topping. Every bite delivers rich caramel notes from brown sugar and corn syrup, toasted pecans for crunch, and a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth finish. Whether it’s for a holiday celebration or a cozy weekend treat, this dish is so simple yet so delightful that it will quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe is a breeze because you’re working with pantry essentials that each play a crucial role. From the sweetness and depth of the brown sugar and corn syrup to the crunch and flavor that only pecans can provide, these components come together beautifully. The cake mix and milk create a tender, spongy topping that soaks up all those fantastic pecan pie flavors underneath.
- Light corn syrup: Adds that signature sweet, sticky sweetness that makes the pie filling irresistible.
- Packed light brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes and moisture to the pie layer.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Infuses richness and helps bind the filling together perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavors with a warm, inviting aroma.
- Large eggs, lightly beaten: Provide structure and help set the casserole beautifully.
- Chopped pecans: Offer a wonderful crunch and authentic pecan flavor at every bite.
- Yellow cake mix: Acts as a simple, no-fuss topping with a light, fluffy texture to contrast the gooey filling.
- Milk: Moistens the cake batter for a tender crumb.
- Unsalted butter, cut into pieces: Dotting the top ensures pockets of buttery goodness throughout.
- Boiling water: Poured over the entire dish to create that magical bubbling effect as it bakes.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Keeps your cobbler from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your cobbler won’t stick. This sets the stage for a perfectly baked, golden crust and makes it easy to serve later without a mess.
Step 2: Whisk the Pecan Pie Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these together until smooth and well blended. Then, add the lightly beaten eggs to the mix and whisk again. Finally, stir in the chopped pecans, setting this tempting filling aside for the moment. This mixture is where all the signature pecan pie magic starts.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a separate bowl, pour the dry yellow cake mix and add the milk. Stir gently but thoroughly until the batter is smooth and lump-free. This simple batter will bake into a fluffy topping that contrasts so beautifully with the rich filling.
Step 4: Assemble Your Cobbler
Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out gently. Without stirring, carefully spoon the pecan mixture over the top so it rests atop the batter in an even layer. Dot the surface with the small pieces of unsalted butter — these little pats will melt and create buttery pockets throughout the cobbler.
Step 5: The Magic of Boiling Water
Slowly pour 1 1/2 cups of boiling water over the entire dish. Don’t stir it in; the water seeps through as it bakes, helping the pecan pie filling bubble up underneath the cake layer for that signature gooey texture. This step might seem unusual, but it’s the secret to the dish’s unique texture and flavor harmony.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop your assembled cobbler into the oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top with a filling that has set but still remains luscious and slightly gooey underneath. Let the cobbler cool for 15 to 20 minutes before serving — this resting time allows the dessert to thicken beautifully, making it easier to slice and enjoy.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, top your warm Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cold creaminess cuts through the sweetness and adds a luxurious texture that brings this dessert to the next level. If you want a sprinkle of elegance, consider a few extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top.
Side Dishes
This rich and indulgent dessert stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to create a full Southern-inspired dessert spread, pair it with simple sides like fresh fruit or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. A strong cup of black coffee or hot tea is also an ideal companion to complement the flavors and cleanse the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch, perfect for dinner parties or holidays. Another fun idea is to serve it scooped over warm pancakes or waffles for a decadent brunch treat. No matter how you present it, this dessert’s irresistible layers will impress every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, don’t worry — this cobbler keeps well. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and maintain its amazing flavors for up to 3 days. Just keep it chilled until you’re ready to enjoy another slice of this Southern comfort.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe in an airtight container or heavy-duty foil. It freezes well for up to a month, so you can prepare it ahead of time for busy days or special occasions. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds until warmed through, or place the entire pan in a 325°F oven covered with foil for around 15 to 20 minutes. Be sure to serve warm to enjoy the gooey filling and soft cake topping at their finest.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and give this cobbler its signature flavor, you can substitute walnuts or even almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.
Is it necessary to use yellow cake mix?
Yellow cake mix works best for the tender, moist topping, but you can experiment with white or even spice cake mix for a fun twist on the flavor and texture.
Why do I need to pour boiling water over the cobbler?
The boiling water melts the butter and helps the pecan pie filling bubble up and set under the cake layer. This creates the classic gooey texture that makes the Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe so unique and delicious.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, try using a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Just ensure all other ingredients, like corn syrup and vanilla, are gluten-free certified. This way, everyone can indulge!
How should I serve this for the best experience?
Warm servings topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream truly bring out the best in this dessert. The combination of warm and cold textures along with the buttery crunch of pecans is pure heaven.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe is a soul-warming dessert that’s truly a joy to make and even more delicious to share. With its buttery, nutty layers and simple preparation, it’s perfect for both everyday treats and special occasions alike. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes everyone’s favorite – you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Pie Cobbler is a deliciously indulgent Southern dessert that combines the rich, gooey sweetness of pecan pie with a light, fluffy cake topping. Easy to make and perfect for holidays or any gathering, this cobbler bakes up to a golden perfection with a luscious pecan filling beneath a tender cake layer.
Ingredients
Pecan Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Cake Batter
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
- Mix Pecan Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lightly beaten eggs until smooth and well combined. Stir in the chopped pecans and set this mixture aside.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a separate bowl, combine the dry yellow cake mix with the milk, mixing well until you achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
- Assemble the Cobbler: Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the greased baking dish. Carefully spoon the pecan mixture gently over the top of the batter without stirring, so the layers remain distinct. Dot the surface with small pieces of unsalted butter evenly spread across.
- Add Boiling Water: Slowly and carefully pour the boiling water over the entire dish, being cautious not to stir. This step helps create the signature cobbler texture with a gooey pecan layer forming beneath the cake topping.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The cobbler is done when the top is a beautiful golden brown and the center is set firmly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This rest time lets the cobbler thicken for perfect sliceable texture. Serve warm, ideally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Notes
- This cobbler creates its own gooey pecan pie layer at the bottom with a fluffy cake topping, offering a delightful contrast in textures.
- Best served warm alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers before serving for best results.
