Southern Pecan Cobbler – A Warm, Gooey Dessert You’ll Never Forget
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort dessert — something warm, buttery, nutty, and filled with a rich caramel sauce — this Southern Pecan Cobbler is it. With a golden, cake-like top and a thick, sticky, sweet layer underneath, this dessert is as impressive to serve as it is easy to make. Add a scoop of ice cream, and you’ve got yourself a showstopper.
Ingredients:
For the batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted (about 75g)
For the topping:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup pecan halves or chopped pecans
- 1 ½ cups boiling water
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the batter
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir in milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth and combined. Don’t overmix.
Pour this batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Add the topping
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the batter. Then sprinkle the pecans all over. Finally, pour the boiling water very carefully over everything. Do not stir! It may look strange, but this is the key to getting that molten caramel layer underneath.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and puffed and the edges are bubbling. The cake will rise to the top while the brown sugar and water create a rich, gooey sauce at the bottom.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve warm straight from the oven. Spoon into bowls and top with:
- A big scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- A drizzle of extra caramel sauce (optional)
The contrast of the hot cobbler with cold ice cream makes it absolutely irresistible.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Cobbler:
- Don’t stir after adding the boiling water – this helps form the caramel sauce naturally while baking.
- Toast the pecans lightly in a skillet before using for extra depth of flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice kick.
- Use dark brown sugar for an even deeper molasses flavor.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm. The sauce may thicken, but the flavor stays amazing.