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This Pecan Pie Cobbler brings everything you love about a Southern pecan pie to your kitchen in an easy and extra gooey dessert casserole You get all the buttery caramelized crunch along with a double crust that soaks up the rich filling Family gatherings seem to call for just this kind of treat and every time I bake it people beg for the recipe
The very first time I served this cobbler was at Thanksgiving and my relatives could not believe how simple it was to make Every slice disappeared in no time
Ingredients
- Eggs: whisked give the structure you need for that classic set filling To get the freshest eggs look for bright yolks and no cracks in the shell
- Brown sugar: adds butterscotch flavor and a deep molasses note Taste for freshness and clump free
- White sugar: keeps the filling sweet and balances the depth of brown sugar Check for even granules and no moisture in the bag
- Melted butter: brings richness and helps the filling set Use unsalted butter for better flavor control and to avoid a salty bite
- Karo syrup: is essential for that signature gooey texture Choose light corn syrup for a classic cobbler taste
- Vanilla extract: enhances all the other flavors Splurge on real extract for best results and skip imitation if you can
- Chopped pecans: add crunch to every bite while pecan halves make a pretty top layer Always check your pecans smell fresh and are not bitter
- Pillsbury pie crust package: saves time and works great Use them straight from the fridge for easier handling and flakiness
- Non stick cooking spray: ensures your cobbler pops right out of the dish with no sticky mess
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Base:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees and let it come up to temperature Spray a 9 by 13 inch baking dish generously with non stick spray Cover the bottom with one unrolled pie crust pressing it gently into the sides and corners This step keeps the cobbler easy to remove when serving
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl combine the whisked eggs brown sugar white sugar melted butter Karo syrup and vanilla extract Stir until totally smooth and glossy when it looks glossy you are ready for pecans
- Add Pecans to the Mix:
- Stir the chopped pecans into the wet mixture making sure they are evenly coated and distributed This way every spoonful will have plenty of nutty crunch
- Assemble the Layers:
- Pour about ninety percent of your pecan mixture over the bottom crust Gently lay the second crust right over the filling stretching a bit if needed Pour the remaining filling right on top and use a spatula to spread it evenly
- Finish the Top:
- Arrange pecan halves across the very top for a beautiful finish and extra crunch Press them down just a bit so they set into the filling and bake up golden
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the dish on the center rack and bake for forty to fifty minutes The filling should be mostly set with a slight wobble and the top crust golden Check by gently shaking the pan the center should not slosh
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cobbler cool in the dish for at least thirty minutes so it sets properly before slicing Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for a real treat
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I always look forward to using those pretty pecan halves on top they toast up beautifully and my kids love helping me lay them out in neat patterns We once made a heart shape on Valentine’s Day and it became a new family tradition
Storage Tips
To store leftovers carefully cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate You can enjoy it cold or gently reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds Cobblers like this also freeze quite well for up to one month so you can make it ahead for special occasions
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a slightly less sweet dessert try reducing the white sugar by a quarter cup and adding a teaspoon of good sea salt For a gluten free version swap in a gluten free pie crust I have also had success using pure maple syrup instead of Karo syrup for a slightly different flavor though it will not set quite as firm
Serving Suggestions
This cobbler is delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of barely sweetened whipped cream For added festivity sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or drizzle with caramel sauce You can also serve it chilled straight from the fridge which is my favorite way to enjoy leftovers
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Cultural and Family Context
Pecan pie is a classic American dessert with roots in the South evolving over generations into many creative riffs I love this cobbler version for big family gatherings when you want everything people love about pecan pie without fussing with individual pies It also works great for potlucks and church suppers In my house there is always a little competition to see who gets the crispiest corner piece
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a lovely flakiness and rich flavor. Just roll out enough dough for both the bottom and top layers.
- → Do I need to toast the pecans before adding?
While not required, toasting the pecans can enhance their nutty aroma and crunch. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do.
- → Can this dessert be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cobbler a day in advance. Let it cool, cover tightly, and store at room temperature or in the fridge.
- → What is the best way to serve this dessert?
Serve warm for gooey texture, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added comfort.
- → How do I know when it’s finished baking?
The filling should be set in the center and the crust golden brown. It usually takes about 40-50 minutes at 350°F.