This pumpkin cobbler is a warm and cozy treat with a sweet pumpkin filling and a fluffy topping. It’s like a hug in a dessert, perfect for fall gatherings!
I love making this when the weather cools down. Just scoop it into a bowl with some ice cream on top, and you’re in for a real treat! 🎃🍨
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is convenient, but you can also use freshly cooked pumpkin. Just boil or roast the pumpkin until soft, then mash it well. Be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling!
Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar: This combo gives the cobbler a nice balance of sweetness. You could use coconut sugar or honey as alternatives, adjusting the amount to your taste.
Pecans: I love adding chopped pecans for a crunchy texture! If you’re allergic, feel free to replace them with walnuts or omit nuts entirely.
Spices: Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create that warm, fall flavor. If you don’t have all the spices, pumpkin pie spice works well too, about 1.5 teaspoons should be enough.
Milk: Milk adds moisture to the batter. You can substitute it with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Ensure the Cobbler Sets Perfectly?
The key to a perfectly cooked pumpkin cobbler is understanding the layers. The batter might look watery after adding boiling water, but don’t worry; it will create a delicious sauce. Here’s how I like to do it:
- Make sure to pour boiling water slowly over the back of a spoon to distribute it evenly without disturbing the batter too much.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. The top should be golden and set, but a toothpick test might be tricky due to the sauce underneath.
- Once it’s out, let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow it to set before serving.
This cobbler is best served warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream on top. Enjoy slicing into this sweet treat!

How to Make Pumpkin Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cobbler:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup boiling water
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce (optional)
- Powdered sugar (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pumpkin cobbler will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45–50 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour for a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any fall occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Pumpkin Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves using a whisk or a spoon. This will ensure everything is well incorporated and will help your cobbler rise nicely.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the pumpkin mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined—don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay!
5. Add the Pecans:
Now, fold in the chopped pecans, which will add a lovely crunch and flavor to your cobbler.
6. Pour into Baking Dish:
Transfer this mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Get your boiling water ready for the next step!
7. Add the Water:
Carefully pour the boiling water over the back of a spoon onto the batter. It will look a bit watery, but that’s exactly what you want! This will create a delicious sauce as it bakes.
8. Bake the Cobbler:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 45–50 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
9. Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let the cobbler cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it set and make it a bit easier to serve.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. For an extra treat, drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle some chopped pecans and powdered sugar on top if you like.
Now, dig in and enjoy your rich, warmly spiced pumpkin cobbler! It’s perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in. Happy baking!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, just cook it until soft (either by boiling or baking), then mash it well to use in the recipe. Make sure to measure out the same volume as the canned pumpkin puree for best results.
What if I Don’t Have Pecans?
No worries! You can substitute chopped walnuts or almonds if you have them on hand. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the nuts altogether, and your cobbler will still be delicious!
Can I Make Pumpkin Cobbler Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days before baking. Just add the boiling water and bake it when you’re ready to serve! It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it will still taste great if made ahead.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave, and consider adding a scoop of ice cream to freshen it up!



