Pumpkin Cobbler is a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for fall! With its soft, spiced pumpkin filling and a sweet, crumbly topping, it’s like a cozy hug in a dish.
I love serving this cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It melts and mixes with the pumpkin goodness—talk about a treat! 🍦 Don’t forget to share it or you might just end up eating it all yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: You can use canned pumpkin puree or make your own by cooking and pureeing fresh pumpkin. If you want a different flavor, try butternut squash puree as a substitute!
Spices: Pumpkin pie spice is a great blend of flavors. If you don’t have it, mix 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of ginger, and an extra dash of cinnamon for a similar taste.
Brown Sugar: For a deeper flavor, light brown sugar works best, but if you’re out, use all granulated sugar or make your own by mixing granulated sugar with a bit of molasses.
Pecans: They add a nice crunch, but you can leave them out or substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer!
How Do I Get the Perfect Layering in Pumpkin Cobbler?
Layering in your cobbler is key for a nice texture and flavor. Start by pouring melted butter into the baking dish—this creates a rich base.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture: Make sure it covers the butter evenly, helping to blend the flavors.
- Pecans on top: Sprinkle them evenly so every bite has a crunch.
- Boiling water step: This tricky step is what makes the bottom saucy. Pour it gently over the mixture without stirring; it’ll sink, helping the cobbler cook evenly.
Keep an eye on it while baking—every oven is different, and you want the top golden and the center set. Trust me, this gooey dessert will have everyone wanting seconds!
How to Make Pumpkin Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Pumpkin Cobbler takes about 10 minutes to prepare, followed by 45–55 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour of hands-on effort and waiting—perfect for a cozy evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease a 9-inch square baking dish to prevent the cobbler from sticking.
2. Mix the Pumpkin Base:
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, and egg. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth—this will be the delicious foundation of your cobbler!
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually stir the dry mixture into the pumpkin mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want it to stay light and fluffy!
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Pour the melted butter into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, then gently spread the pumpkin batter evenly over the melted butter. Don’t stir or mix; this will help create a lovely texture once baked.
5. Add Pecans (Optional):
If you’re using pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the pumpkin batter. They add a nice crunch and flavor!
6. Pour on the Boiling Water:
Next, carefully pour the boiling water evenly over the entire mixture. Again, do not stir! This step is crucial because it helps create a wonderful sauce underneath the cobbler.
7. Bake the Cobbler:
Pop the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 45–55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden, and the center is set. Enjoy the lovely aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the cobbler cool for a few minutes. Then, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and if you like, drizzle some caramel sauce to add an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy your cozy pumpkin cobbler, complete with a crisp crumbly top and a delicious gooey sauce underneath!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, then scoop out the flesh and puree it until smooth. This will give you a delightful flavor and freshness that enhances your cobbler!
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken). This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the recipe delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a scoop of ice cream again for that fresh taste!
Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or add a 1/4 teaspoon to help with the texture!