Pumpkin Cobbler delivers a remarkable feast of autumn flavors in every bite, guaranteed to leave you feeling happy and satisfied. If you’re on the lookout for a comforting dessert that’s both easy and irresistibly rich, this crowd-pleasing classic is just what your table needs. With just 15 minutes of prep and wholesome, pantry-friendly staples, this cobbler becomes a vibrant centerpiece—especially when shared with loved ones. For fellow pumpkin lovers, don’t forget to check out our Baked Pumpkin French Toast Muffins and 7 Irresistible Reasons to Make Ultimate Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins for more tempting treats!
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Cobbler
- Remarkably rich blend of pumpkin and warm spices creates a happy, comforting dessert burst
- Perfect for gatherings—12 sizable portions to delight big or small crowds
- Simple to make with pantry staples, ensuring fuss-free preparation
- Fantastic texture: a delicate, fluffy cake top with a luscious, gooey pumpkin sauce beneath
- An uplifting dessert to finish your meal on a spectacular note, any time of year
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cobbler
Every bite of Pumpkin Cobbler is packed with spectacular seasonal flavor and texture, thanks to these vibrant ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The reliable foundation for the cobbler’s delicate top
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Brings the entire dessert to a happy, fluffy rise
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the rich, autumn flavors
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Provides a comforting touch of sweetness across the cobbler
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Delivers a tempting, warm aroma and cozy flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Rich and slightly sweet, deepening the pumpkin notes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Infuses the cobbler with a hint of spicy warmth
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Sparks a tantalizing, gentle heat that brightens each forkful
- 1 cup canned pumpkin: Adds a thick, creamy base and vivid orange hue, bursting with autumnal spirit
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Contributes luscious moisture for a cake that stays irresistibly tender
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Offers a subtle sweetness and classic comfort
- 1 cup brown sugar: For a deep, caramel richness and that melt-in-your-mouth sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: An extra sprinkle for an aromatic, spiced finish
- 1 1/2 cups hot water: Creates a dazzling transformation—the secret to cobbler’s gooey magic
Necessary Tools
Making Pumpkin Cobbler is both practical and wonderfully straightforward. Here’s what you need for a seamless baking experience:
- A large mixing bowl: Roomy enough to combine ingredients with confidence and no mess
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Provides a perfect depth for thick, fluffy cobbler and gooey sauce underneath
- Whisk: Essential for effortlessly blending spices and dry ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons: For reliably accurate results every single time
- Silicone spatula or sturdy spoon: Makes mixing and spreading batter a breeze
- Oven mitts: Keep you protected as you bring this happy, aromatic dessert out of the oven
- Wire cooling rack: Lets your cobbler cool to the perfect serving temperature
With these simple, powerful tools on hand, you’ll find that making Pumpkin Cobbler is as enjoyable as eating it!
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
One of the best parts about Pumpkin Cobbler is how adaptable it can be. If you’re inspired to make this dessert uniquely your own, consider these special twists and swaps for even more entertaining and tempting results:
- Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative—your cobbler will still turn out fluffy and rich with flavor. Choose a 1:1 baking blend for seamless substitution.
- Love extra spice? Boost the warmth by adding a pinch more nutmeg or ginger, or a whisper of cardamom for a surprising, sophisticated twist.
- For deeper flavor and a caramel-like, tempting aroma, try using dark brown sugar in place of light.
- If you’re short on canned pumpkin, homemade pumpkin puree (drained well) works beautifully and offers a fresh, happy flavor.
- Substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter for an even more indulgent, homemade richness.
- Not a fan of cloves? Simply leave them out, or replace with more cinnamon for an extra fragrant, cozy accent.
- Add-ins make each serving extra special: scatter a handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the batter before baking for nutty crunch.
- Sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips between the batter and the brown sugar topping to introduce an alluring, melty surprise in every bite.
- For more pumpkin delicacies, see our Tasty Pumpkin Zucchini Muffins With Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting—a fun option if you like experimenting in the kitchen!
These practical substitutions and additions let you confidently create a cobbler experience that’s both uplifting and deliciously personalized.
How to Make Pumpkin Cobbler
Creating Pumpkin Cobbler fills your kitchen with a stunning, comforting aroma and transforms simple pantry staples into a craveable dessert. The magic happens in layers: a spiced batter, a shimmering sugar sprinkle, and a dramatic pour of hot water that bubbles into heavenly, gooey pumpkin sauce beneath a fluffy golden cake. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray for easy release and perfectly golden edges.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients with Enthusiasm
In your large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger until evenly combined. The fragrant spice blend should stir up happy anticipation.
Step 3: Stir in Pumpkin, Oil, and Vanilla
Add pumpkin, vegetable oil, and vanilla to the dry mixture. Stir with a silicone spatula or sturdy spoon until the batter is thick, smooth, and vibrant.
Step 4: Spread Batter in Baking Dish
Transfer the batter to your prepared dish, using your spatula to spread it evenly. The spirited orange color should already look happy and inviting.
Step 5: Sprinkle Brown Sugar & Cinnamon Topping
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar with a half teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the batter for a luscious caramelized layer that melts into the dessert below.
Step 6: Pour Hot Water for Magic
Carefully pour the hot water over the entire dish. Don’t stir! This bold move is what creates cobbler’s gooey, spectacular sauce beneath the cake top.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Fragrant
Place the dish less than halfway down in your oven. Bake, uncovered, for 50-55 minutes. The cake rises and the top turns a vibrant golden brown, while the bottom becomes dreamily gooey.
Step 8: Rest & Serve
Let the Pumpkin Cobbler stand for 5-10 minutes. The sauce settles, the aromas intensify, and every serving is as tantalizing as the last.
Step 9: Add the Final Flourish
Scoop generous portions into bowls and, if desired, crown each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. The experience is spectacular, especially when the cream meets the warm, spicy sauce.
How to Serve Pumpkin Cobbler
Pumpkin Cobbler is best served warm for a truly comforting, happy finish. Its vibrant color and gooey texture are both visually appealing and satisfyingly rich. Pair each bowl with a swirl of whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for an uplifting contrast to the warm spices. The dreamy sauce melds with the cool ice cream, creating a spectacular, crave-worthy indulgence that feels just right for holidays or weeknight feasts alike. For even more flavorful festive ideas, see our No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake.
Pro Tips & Tricks
- For a stunning table presentation, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar just before serving to create an eye-catching, snowy effect.
- If you love extra gooey cobbler, slightly increase the hot water to 1 3/4 cups for a more luxurious sauce layer.
- Bake your cobbler in a ceramic or glass dish for evenly distributed heat and optimal texture.
- Double the brown sugar-cinnamon topping if you prefer a more decadent, caramelized crust.
- Combine spices fresh from the jar for the most vibrant flavor—this small step delivers a huge punch!
- Let the cobbler rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes after baking; the flavors mingle, and the texture settles beautifully.
- When you want to make this dessert ahead, assemble and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 2 hours; bake just before serving for a fresh, flavorful delight.
Storage Instructions
Pumpkin Cobbler stores remarkably well, making it a happy make-ahead option for gatherings:
- Allow cobbler to cool completely before covering with foil or transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until hot or place the entire dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to revive the rich sauce.
- For longer storage, freeze cooled cobbler in portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as desired for a comforting treat any time.
General Information
Pumpkin Cobbler is a comforting dessert that showcases the best of autumn in a practical, spectacular way. Unlike traditional pies, cobblers boast a tender, fluffy cake layered with luscious, spiced fruit (or pumpkin!) filling beneath. Baked in one dish, these desserts are perfect for hassle-free entertaining. Pumpkin Cobbler’s blend of familiar spices and vibrant pumpkin delivers a happy harmony between sweetness and spice—ideal for family gatherings, cozy nights, or joyful celebrations of any season.
FAQs
Can I make Pumpkin Cobbler in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble it ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before baking, or bake and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Always serve warm for maximum deliciousness.
What’s the difference between cobbler and crisp?
A cobbler features a thick, cakey topping over a bubbling filling, while a crisp uses a crumbly oat or streusel topping for more crunch. Both offer spectacular results, but the cobbler is perfect if you crave a fluffy, golden cake atop a gooey, spiced base.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Definitely! Just be sure to strain homemade pumpkin puree so it’s not watery. Freshly mashed pumpkin brings an unbelievably fresh, vibrant taste.
How do I know when the cobbler is done?
The topping should appear golden and set, and the pumpkin sauce beneath will bubble up around the edges. Gently jiggle—if the center doesn’t wobble like liquid, it’s ready.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use a non-dairy milk ice cream or coconut whipped cream for serving, and verify all your other ingredients suit your dietary needs.
What to Serve With Pumpkin Cobbler
Looking to create a complete, spectacular dessert spread? Pair Pumpkin Cobbler with a zesty, creamy treat like our No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake for contrasting flavors, or serve alongside rich brews of coffee and comforting chai. For pumpkin fans, a tray of Tasty Pumpkin Zucchini Muffins With Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting or 7 Irresistible Reasons to Make Ultimate Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins offers even more tempting pumpkin delights. For a festive gathering, finish with a bowl of candy corn or roasted salted pecans on the side to add a playful crunch.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Cobbler is a remarkably satisfying dessert that captures the spectacular spirit of fall in every happy scoop. Whether shared at bustling gatherings or quiet nights at home, its irresistible flavors and lavish texture will make memories for years to come. Try this uplifting bake and discover your new favorite way to savor pumpkin.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Pumpkin Cobbler provides a rich, satisfying treat—packed with pumpkin and warm spices, yet practical enough for a lighter dessert option. Enjoy this comforting sweet knowing you’re treating yourself to the flavors of autumn—with plenty of happy, homemade vibes in every bite!
PrintPumpkin Cobbler: Comforting Autumn Dessert
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Description
Pumpkin Cobbler is a warm, spiced autumn dessert featuring a cakey pumpkin base and a sweet, gooey sauce formed from brown sugar and hot water. Aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger elevate the canned pumpkin, while a simple batter transforms with baking into a soft cobbler crowned by a caramel-like topping. Best enjoyed warm, possibly with vanilla ice cream, it’s an easy yet crowd-pleasing treat for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups hot water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
- Add pumpkin, oil, and vanilla, and stir until combined.
- Spread the thick batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over the batter.
- Pour hot water evenly over the top—do not stir.
- Bake uncovered for 50 to 55 minutes until the cake rises to the top and sauce bubbles beneath.
- Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to set.
- Serve warm, optionally topping with vanilla ice cream.
Notes
For substitutions, you may use melted butter or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil, and whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Pumpkin puree can be replaced with butternut squash puree. Assemble the cobbler up to the point before adding hot water—refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours. For storage, cool completely and refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat before serving. If the sauce is too thin or thick, adjust baking time by 5-10 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cake; it should come out mostly clean.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/12th of cobbler)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg