We’ve always been fans of Southern comfort food, and our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler recipe captures that warm, nostalgic essence perfectly. Hailing from the heart of Dixie, this twist on a classic combines gooey pecan pie filling with a buttery cobbler crust for an irresistible treat that’ll wow your family.
It’s not just delicious—it’s a simple way to bring a taste of the South to your table, whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or craving something sweet. We promise this easy recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
In our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler recipe, we focus on simple yet premium ingredients that capture the essence of Southern comfort. Below, we’ve organized them by component—starting with the cobbler crust and followed by the pecan filling—to mirror the order of preparation. This ensures easy assembly and highlights key flavors like buttery pecans and gooey sweetness.
For the Cobbler Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for a light, flaky texture.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the crust.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the crust rise and achieve a tender crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor without overpowering.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter: Chilled and cubed, for a rich, buttery base that mixes easily.
For the Pecan Filling
- 2 cups pecan halves: Toasted lightly for enhanced nutty aroma, as they form the star of the filling.
- 1 cup light corn syrup: Provides the signature gooey consistency.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Melts into a caramel-like depth.
- 3 large eggs: Beaten, to bind the filling and add richness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Melted, for added moisture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses warm, aromatic notes.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: For a hint of spice that complements the pecans.
This selection of ingredients ensures our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a go-to for holiday gatherings or everyday treats.
Equipment Needed
Before we assemble our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler, let’s gather the essential tools to make the process seamless and enjoyable. We recommend these items to ensure precise preparation and baking, drawing from our experience with Southern comfort desserts.
- Mixing bowls (medium and large): We use these to combine dry ingredients for the cobbler crust and whisk together the pecan filling, promoting even mixing for a flaky texture and gooey consistency.
- Measuring cups and spoons (set of 1-cup, ½-cup, and various spoons): Accuracy is crucial in our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler recipe, so we rely on these for precise measurements of flour, sugar, and liquids to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: This is our go-to for the cobbler, as it provides ample space for the buttery crust and rich pecan filling to bake evenly and create that signature golden top.
- Whisk: We prefer a sturdy whisk to blend eggs and wet ingredients in the filling, ensuring a smooth, lump-free mixture that enhances the dessert’s indulgent, nutty profile.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in pecans and scraping bowls clean, we find it helps maintain the filling’s gooey texture without overmixing.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler bakes at the optimal temperature, we use this to monitor heat accuracy and prevent undercooking or burning.
- Cooling rack: After baking, we place the dish on this to allow even cooling, preserving the crisp crust and preventing sogginess for the best sensory experience.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through creating our irresistible Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler step by step. We promise this process will yield a warm, gooey dessert with a buttery crust that captures the heart of Southern baking.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, it’s crucial to prepare our ingredients for optimal flavor and texture. Start by toasting the pecan halves—place 2 cups of pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned; this enhances their nutty aroma and crunch. Next, measure out the dry ingredients for the cobbler crust: sift 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt into a medium mixing bowl to ensure even distribution and a flaky result. For the filling, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop, and crack 3 large eggs into a separate bowl, whisking them lightly to break the yolks. This preparation sets the stage for a smooth assembly, allowing the rich flavors of our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler to shine through.
Make the Filling
With our ingredients prepped, we turn to crafting the gooey heart of our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of light corn syrup, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, the melted butter, whisked eggs, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon using a sturdy whisk. Beat the mixture vigorously for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and glossy, with no lumps visible—the sweet, caramel-like scent will begin to emerge, promising a decadent filling. Once blended, gently fold in the toasted pecan halves with a rubber spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed for that signature nutty bite in every spoonful.
Assemble the Cobbler
Now we bring it all together to create the layered magic of our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler. In the medium mixing bowl with the dry crust ingredients, cut in 6 tablespoons of cold, unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—aim for a texture that’s light and crumbly, like fresh biscuits. Spread this crust mixture evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form a base. Pour the pecan filling over the crust, letting it settle naturally; the contrast of the buttery layer beneath the glossy, nut-studded topping will make your mouth water as you anticipate the bake.
Bake the Cobbler
To achieve that perfect golden finish, preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the center for even heat distribution. Place the assembled cobbler in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and the crust turns a deep golden brown—the aroma of toasted pecans and warm cinnamon will fill your kitchen, signaling a treat that’s irresistibly fresh. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a rack for at least 15 minutes to set, ensuring the filling firms up for easy serving.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To keep our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler fresh and delicious, we recommend these make-ahead strategies and storage tips that build on the baking and cooling steps from our recipe. This ensures you can prepare this Southern favorite in advance for holiday gatherings or busy weeknights without compromising its gooey texture and rich pecan flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love making this cobbler ahead to save time on the day of serving. Here’s how we do it:
- Prepare the Components Separately: Start by toasting the pecans and mixing the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its gooey consistency. For the crust, combine the dry ingredients and cut in the butter, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. This keeps everything fresh and ready for quick assembly.
- Assemble and Refrigerate: If you’re planning ahead for the same day, assemble the cobbler completely in your 9×13-inch baking dish but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. When you’re ready, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then bake as directed to ensure even cooking.
- Fully Bake and Reheat: Bake the entire cobbler as per our instructions, then cool it completely on a rack. You can prepare it up to 2 days ahead—store it as outlined below and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, restoring that irresistible bubbly topping.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage helps preserve the cobbler’s buttery crust and pecan filling, preventing it from becoming soggy or losing flavor. We always prioritize airtight methods to lock in freshness.
For quick reference on storage durations, refer to the table below:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 hours | Cover loosely with foil; ideal for serving shortly after cooling to maintain texture. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Let the cobbler cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps the pecans crunchy and the filling moist. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Cool fully, wrap individual portions or the whole dish in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 325°F for 15-20 minutes to regain that fresh-baked warmth. |
By following these methods, we ensure our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler remains a go-to dessert that’s as convenient as it is comforting. Always check for signs of spoilage, like off odors or mold, before consuming.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler recipe with us. It’s more than a dessert—it’s a simple way to create lasting memories around the table.
By incorporating these tips, you’ll craft a treat that’s both effortless and irresistible, elevating your baking game effortlessly. Let’s make it a staple in our kitchens and share the warmth it brings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler?
Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler is a classic Southern dessert that blends the gooey richness of pecan pie with a buttery cobbler crust. It’s a simple, nostalgic treat perfect for holidays or everyday cravings, featuring toasted pecans and a flaky topping for ultimate comfort.
What ingredients are needed for Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler?
For the crust, you’ll need all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and unsalted butter. The filling requires toasted pecan halves, corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. These premium ingredients ensure a flavorful, easy-to-make dessert.
What equipment is required to make this cobbler?
You’ll need medium and large mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a 9×13-inch baking dish, a whisk, rubber spatula, oven thermometer, and cooling rack. These tools help ensure precise preparation and even baking for the best results.
How do I make Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler step by step?
Start by toasting pecans and mixing dry crust ingredients. Combine wet filling ingredients, fold in pecans, then layer over the crumbly crust in a baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes until golden and bubbly. Cool for 15 minutes before serving for perfect texture.
Can I prepare Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler ahead of time?
Yes, toast pecans and mix the filling up to 24 hours in advance, or refrigerate the assembled cobbler for up to 8 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for holidays or gatherings without sacrificing freshness.
How should I store Dixie Pecan Pie Cobbler?
Store cooled cobbler in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture and flavor.