Name: Cinnamon Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup brown sugar (for topping); 1 1/2 cups hot water; 1/2 cup pecan halves

When the seasons start to shift and there’s a coolness in the air, I find myself craving warm, cozy desserts — the kind that feel like a hug in a bowl. That’s exactly what this Cinnamon Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler delivers. With its tender spiced pumpkin cake on top and a rich caramel sauce bubbling underneath, it’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth — it soothes the soul.

I first made this cobbler on a quiet autumn afternoon, and it quickly became a staple in my seasonal baking. The combination of cinnamon and pumpkin is comforting, while the crunchy pecans on top add just the right contrast to the gooey caramel sauce. It’s rustic, unfussy, and impossibly good — perfect for holidays, family dinners, or whenever you need a dessert that makes everyone smile.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

This dessert is a warm, spoonable dream. The magic happens in the oven, where a simple pumpkin batter rises above a brown sugar mixture, creating its own luscious caramel sauce as it bakes. With no need for complicated techniques or multiple bowls, this cobbler is as easy as it is impressive. The cinnamon adds a deep, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of pumpkin and the buttery crunch of toasted pecans.

It also makes your kitchen smell incredible while baking. That alone might be reason enough to make it.

What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

Canned pumpkin purée is the way to go for this cobbler. It’s smooth, consistent, and readily available. Just make sure you’re not using pumpkin pie filling, which has added spices and sugar that can throw off the flavor and texture. If you have homemade pumpkin purée, go for it – just be sure it’s not too watery.

Options for Substitutions

Flour: You can swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend if needed.
Butter: If you prefer a dairy-free option, use a good quality vegan butter substitute.
Pecans: Walnuts or chopped almonds also work well, or leave out the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used for a more natural sweetener with a similar depth of flavor.
Milk: Regular milk can be replaced with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk you like.

Ingredients for this Cinnamon Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cobbler base. It helps balance the moisture from the pumpkin puree and allows the cobbler to rise properly.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the pumpkin batter without overpowering the spices. It also contributes to a tender crumb.
Baking powder – Provides leavening, helping the cobbler puff up while baking and separate from the sauce layer.
Cinnamon & nutmeg – These warm spices are essential for creating that signature fall flavor. The cinnamon adds depth, and nutmeg brings a slight hint of sweetness.
Salt – Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Pumpkin puree – The star of the show. It gives the batter moisture, body, and that earthy pumpkin flavor.
Milk – Combines with the pumpkin to thin the batter just enough to make it pourable and bake evenly.
Melted butter – Adds richness and keeps the cobbler soft and flavorful.
Vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic touch that ties all the flavors together.
Brown sugar – Used in the topping layer to create the caramel sauce as the cobbler bakes. It melts into the base and thickens beautifully.
Hot water – Poured over the topping layer to activate the sauce formation while baking.
Pecans – Sprinkled on top for texture, nuttiness, and a lovely contrast to the gooey sauce.

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This helps the cobbler release easily after baking and ensures an even cook.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined. This mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together. Don’t overmix; stir just until no dry flour remains. The batter will be thick and spoonable.

Step 5: Spread Batter in the Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Add the Brown Sugar Topping

Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the batter. This is the beginning of your caramel sauce layer.

Step 7: Pour Hot Water Over the Top

Carefully pour the hot water over the back of a spoon to gently spread it across the surface of the cobbler. Do not stir. It may look strange now, but this step is key for forming that rich sauce on the bottom.

Step 8: Add Pecans

Scatter pecan halves or chopped pecans over the top. They will toast slightly in the oven and provide crunch.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the cobbler for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is set and golden brown. You should see bubbling sauce at the edges.

Step 10: Let It Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

How Long to Prepare the Cinnamon Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

Preparation Time:
Mixing the batter and assembling everything takes about 15–20 minutes. The steps are simple and require only basic kitchen tools, so it’s perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. You’ll spend the majority of time measuring, mixing, and layering the ingredients.

Baking Time:
The cobbler bakes for approximately 40–45 minutes at 350°F (175°C). During this time, the caramel sauce forms at the bottom while the pumpkin cake sets on top. After baking, let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler

Use canned pumpkin puree for best consistency and reliability.
Pour the hot water slowly over the back of a spoon to avoid disturbing the sugar layer.
Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined to keep the texture light.
Toast the pecans lightly beforehand to boost their flavor and crunch.
Let the cobbler rest before serving so the caramel sauce can settle and thicken nicely.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using pumpkin pie filling instead of puree: This can result in an overly sweet, overly spiced batter.
Skipping the hot water step: The caramel sauce won’t form without this crucial layer.
Overbaking: The sauce may dry out, and the cobbler could lose its gooey texture.
Undermixing dry ingredients: Uneven distribution can cause bitter pockets of baking powder or spices.
Adding pecans too early: If they’re mixed into the batter instead of on top, they may become soggy.

What to Serve With Cinnamon Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler?

1. Vanilla Ice Cream

Classic and creamy, it melts into the warm cobbler and creates the ultimate fall dessert.

2. Whipped Cream

A lightly sweetened whipped topping adds airiness and balances the richness.

3. Salted Caramel Drizzle

For extra indulgence, drizzle warm salted caramel over each serving.

4. Spiced Chai Latte

A warm mug of chai pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors.

5. Bourbon or Spiked Apple Cider

Great for adult gatherings, this enhances the cozy autumnal feel.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature:
If you plan to eat the cobbler within the day, cover it with foil and leave it at room temperature for up to 8 hours.

Refrigerator:
To store longer, keep the cobbler in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds.

Freezer:
You can freeze the baked cobbler (after it’s fully cooled) for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 10 servings):

Calories: ~370 kcal
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 160mg
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 35g
Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

How gooey should the center be?

It should be soft and saucy, not raw. The top should be set, while the bottom remains gooey like a pudding.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Bake it earlier in the day and reheat gently in the oven before serving. The sauce may thicken more over time but will still be delicious.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by about 10–15 minutes, checking for doneness.

What if I don’t like nuts?

Skip the pecans or replace them with a streusel topping if you still want some crunch.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! It’s sweet, warm, and comforting. Just omit the optional bourbon in any pairing suggestions.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler is a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall — rich, comforting, and full of spiced pumpkin flavor. It’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight and impressive enough to serve at holiday gatherings. Whether paired with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cobbler is guaranteed to bring warmth to your table and smiles to everyone around it.