Pecan Pie Cobbler Recipe: A Southern Classic with a Decadent Twist
Pecan Pie Cobbler combines the rich, gooey goodness of traditional pecan pie with the comforting, layered texture of a cobbler. This indulgent dessert is a show-stopper at holiday feasts, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving something truly special. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cobbler is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Pecan Pie Cobbler, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 box refrigerated pie crust, softened to room temperature
- 2 1/2 cups light corn syrup
- 2 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 4 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 6 eggs, slightly beaten
- 2 cups coarsely chopped pecans
- Butter-flavored cooking spray
- 2 cups pecan halves
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This initial high temperature helps to brown and crisp the top crust. Grease a 13×9-inch glass baking dish using shortening or butter-flavored cooking spray to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
Prepare the Bottom Crust
Roll out one of the pie crusts into a rectangle large enough to cover the bottom of your 13×9-inch baking dish. Place it gently into the dish, trimming any excess dough from the edges. This base will form the foundational layer of your cobbler.
Make the Pecan Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and slightly beaten eggs until fully combined. This mixture forms the rich, sweet custard that’s central to pecan pie flavor. Once the mixture is smooth, fold in the coarsely chopped pecans for added texture.
Layer the Cobbler
Pour half of the pecan filling over the prepared crust. Spread it evenly across the dish using a spatula to ensure the filling is distributed in every bite.
Top with the Second Crust
Roll out the second pie crust into a rectangle to match the size of your baking dish. Lay it over the pecan filling layer and trim the edges. Lightly spray the crust with butter-flavored cooking spray to promote a golden-brown finish.
First Bake
Bake the cobbler in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the top crust turns a beautiful golden brown. Then remove the dish from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Add the Final Layer of Filling
Carefully spoon the remaining pecan filling over the partially baked cobbler. This step gives the dessert its signature cobbler texture with a gooey, nutty top. Arrange the pecan halves decoratively across the top for visual appeal and extra crunch.
Second Bake
Place the cobbler back into the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. The filling should be set and bubbling slightly, and the pecan halves will take on a lovely toasted color. If the crust or pecans are browning too quickly, you can tent the dish with aluminum foil.
Cool and Serve
Once done baking, allow the cobbler to cool on a rack for at least 20 minutes. This cooling time helps the filling set properly, making it easier to cut and serve. For an extra indulgent treat, serve the cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Cobbler
Use High-Quality Pecans The flavor of this dessert depends heavily on the pecans, so opt for fresh, high-quality nuts for the best results.
Don’t Overbake Keep an eye on the cobbler during the second bake. Overbaking can cause the filling to harden too much or the crust to burn.
Let It Rest As tempting as it may be to dig in right away, letting the cobbler rest ensures the layers set properly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing. The creamy coldness complements the warm, nutty cobbler perfectly.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness and contrast.
Drizzle of Caramel: For a super-rich dessert, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over each serving.
Storage and Reheating
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the whole dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cobbler in a tightly sealed container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Pecan Pie Cobbler in advance? Yes! You can prepare the cobbler a day in advance and reheat it in the oven before serving. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready.
Can I use homemade pie crust? Absolutely. Homemade pie crusts will add even more flavor and flakiness. Just make sure to roll them to the appropriate size.
Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light? Yes, though it will give the cobbler a deeper, more molasses-like flavor.
What if I don’t have butter-flavored spray? You can use melted butter or regular cooking spray. Butter-flavored spray simply adds more richness to the crust.
Can I make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Pecan Pie Cobbler is the ultimate hybrid dessert—easy to make, undeniably delicious, and sure to wow any crowd. From the flaky crust to the gooey pecan filling, each bite is a taste of Southern comfort at its best. Happy baking!