Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

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Introduction

Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is the dessert that screams fall comfort food. Imagine the creamy warmth of spiced pumpkin puree baked under a gooey, caramel-like pecan topping that magically creates its own sauce while in the oven. It’s part pudding, part cobbler, and completely irresistible. This dish combines the smooth earthiness of pumpkin with the crunch of pecans, making it a holiday table favorite from Thanksgiving to Christmas—but honestly, it’s too good to save just for the holidays.

A Little History

Cobblers originated in the British American colonies in the 1800s, when settlers adapted their traditional pie recipes to the ingredients and tools they had available. Without proper ovens, they baked fruit with biscuit or batter toppings in open hearths, creating the first cobblers. Over time, cobblers became a staple of Southern cuisine in the United States. The pumpkin, native to North America, and the pecan, the only tree nut native to the continent, naturally found their way into these dishes, especially in autumn harvest celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Base:

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup whole milk (or evaporated milk for richness)
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup granulated sugar

For the Hot Water Pour-Over (magic sauce):

  • 1 ½ cups hot water

Instructions & Method

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Make the Pumpkin Base:
  • In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
  • In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
  • Stir dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  1. Add the Topping:
  • Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the batter.
  • Next, sprinkle both brown sugar and granulated sugar over the top. Do not stir.
  1. Pour the Hot Water:
  • Slowly pour hot water over the entire dish. Again, do not stir—this is the secret to creating the gooey sauce at the bottom.
  1. Bake:
  • Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
  • The inside should be soft and saucy, while the top is slightly crisp.
  1. Serve:
  • Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
  • Best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Benefits

  • Pumpkin: Rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants that support eye health and digestion.
  • Pecans: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and minerals like magnesium and zinc.
  • Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves not only add flavor but also aid digestion and boost immunity.
  • Comfort Factor: A cozy, warm dessert that satisfies sweet cravings without being overly heavy.

Nutrition (per serving – approx. 10 servings)

  • Calories: ~310
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 28g

Conclusion

Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is more than just dessert—it’s an experience of fall in every bite. With its warm spices, creamy pumpkin base, crunchy pecan topping, and caramel-like sauce, it feels like a hug in dessert form. Whether you make it for a cozy night in or a festive family gathering, this dish is bound to impress.

Lovers of pumpkin pie and pecan pie will find their new obsession here.

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