Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe
If you have a soft spot for desserts that wrap you up in warm, cozy flavors and textures, you are going to absolutely adore this Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe. Imagine a luscious blend of molten chocolate cake richness and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans, baked to golden, gooey perfection. This Southern classic delivers a chocolate sauce right from the oven that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, turning any day into a celebration of comfort and indulgence. Believe me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of those treasured desserts you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each element is essential—whether it’s the cocoa powder for depth, the pecans for crunch, or the hot water that magically forms the sauce—every component plays a starring role.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and base for the tender cobbler batter.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cobbler a lovely lift and lightness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake with a clean, classic taste.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor and a subtle bitterness to deepen the dessert.
- ½ cup milk: Moistens the batter for a soft, cakey texture.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and aroma to every bite.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and a toasty, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate.
- For the topping:
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the topping’s chocolate sauce layer.
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed): Adds caramel notes that deepen flavor complexity.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate richness in the topping.
- 1 ½ cups hot water: Poured over the batter to create the signature gooey, luscious sauce as it bakes.
How to Make Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s perfectly hot when the batter is ready. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder, blending them evenly. The dry mix ensures your cobbler will have a tender crumb and deep chocolate flavor. Next, stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the batter is thick and smooth. Fold in the chopped pecans gently to distribute that delightful nutty crunch throughout.
Step 2: Assemble the Cobbler Base
Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking, then pour in your luscious batter, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This layer will form the cakey foundation of your cobbler, rich with chocolate and buttery goodness.
Step 3: Add the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cocoa powder for the topping. Sprinkle this evenly over the batter’s surface, which sounds simple but is crucial for the dessert’s magic. When you pour the hot water over this sugar-cocoa mixture, it melts down through the batter, creating the molten sauce that gives this cobbler its signature gooey texture. Be careful to pour the hot water gently and do not stir after; this layering effect is key.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your cobbler in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for the top to look set and the bottom to bubble up with that rich, molten chocolate sauce. Once done, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief rest period lets the sauce thicken slightly for the perfect spoonful of warm, gooey deliciousness.
How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures that’s simply irresistible. A dollop of freshly whipped cream also works beautifully, adding airy lightness that complements the dense, chocolatey base. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few toasted pecans on top for a pretty, crunchy finish.
Side Dishes
Though this cobbler is spectacular all on its own, pairing it with a side of fresh berries can add a vibrant, tart note that balances the richness. If you’re serving it after a heavy meal, consider a simple cup of hot coffee or black tea to cut through the sweetness and cleanse the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving individual portions of this cobbler in pretty ramekins or mason jars. Layer with a little extra chopped pecans on top and drizzle with chocolate sauce for an elegant touch. You could also create a dessert trifecta by layering cobbler with layers of whipped cream and chocolate pudding in clear glasses for a showstopping presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, but be sure to cover it well to preserve the cobbler’s moist texture and prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover cobbler by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or storing it in a freezer-safe container. It freezes nicely for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your cobbler in the oven at 325°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 30 to 45 seconds, but the oven method helps maintain that baked texture and gooey sauce without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that will provide a similar crunch and flavor profile, though pecans bring the classic Southern touch that’s signature to this recipe.
Is it necessary to use hot water poured on top?
Yes, the hot water activates the sugar and cocoa topping beneath, creating the luscious molten sauce that makes this cobbler so special. Skipping or using cold water will alter the texture dramatically.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this cobbler gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for structure.
How long does the cobbler keep its gooey texture?
The cobbler stays beautifully gooey for about a day when stored properly. It will firm up a bit after refrigeration but reheats back to its molten glory with a little warmth.
Can this dessert be made vegan?
With some adjustments—using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and ensuring your sugar is vegan-friendly—you can certainly create a delicious vegan version of this Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is something irresistibly comforting about the combination of warm, melted chocolate and crunchy pecans baked into this delectable cobbler. Whether you’re craving a quick dessert for weeknight pleasure or looking to impress guests with a Southern classic, this Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe is a winner every time. It’s easy-to-make, full of rich flavors, and wonderfully versatile—go ahead and give it a try; I promise it will become one of your new favorites.
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Chocolate Pecan Cobbler Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Pecan Cobbler is a rich, gooey, and indulgent Southern dessert that combines the fudgy texture of molten chocolate cake with crunchy toasted pecans. It creates its own luscious chocolate sauce as it bakes, making it an ideal warm treat to enjoy with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or any comfort food craving.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup milk
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Topping
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups hot water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cobbler evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder until thoroughly combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Combine: Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture until a thick batter forms, making sure all ingredients are incorporated smoothly.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring even distribution while preserving their crunch.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the batter into it and spread evenly across the bottom.
- Mix Topping: In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup packed brown sugar, and ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, mixing well.
- Add Topping to Batter: Sprinkle the sugar and cocoa powder topping evenly over the batter in the baking dish to build flavor layers.
- Pour Hot Water Carefully: Slowly pour 1 ½ cups of hot water over the top without stirring; this step is crucial for forming the gooey chocolate sauce beneath the batter.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is set and you see bubbly chocolate sauce at the bottom edges of the dish.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for about 10 minutes so it can set slightly, then serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Do not stir after adding the hot water; this is essential for the cobbler to develop its signature gooey chocolate sauce.
- For deeper flavor and enhanced texture, toast the pecans lightly before folding them into the batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American