Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, fall-inspired dessert that’s easy to whip up yet feels indulgent, you’re going to want to try this Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe. I absolutely love how this dish balances the warm spices of pumpkin pie with a golden cakey topping — it’s like a warm hug in dessert form. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this cobbler always brings comfort and cheers. Keep reading, because I’m sharing everything you need to nail this recipe perfectly and some tips to make it your own!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe lies in the simple ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Since the topping is like a homemade cake mix, you’ll want to use fresh baking powder and quality vanilla for the best results.

• Brown Sugar: Adds rich caramel notes that deepen the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Large Eggs: Helps bind everything so your cobbler sets just right—don’t skip fresh eggs here.
• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient! Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for balanced sweetness and texture.
• Evaporated Milk: Gives creaminess without heaviness—regular milk won’t quite deliver the same silky texture.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: If you don’t have this mix on hand, blend cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, so a pinch is definitely needed.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, floral aroma that lifts the whole dessert.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the cakey topping’s base; measure carefully for best structure.
• Sugar: Balances the spices and pumpkin’s earthiness in the topping.
• Baking Powder: Helps your topping rise just enough for a delightful crunch.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted and drizzled on top for richness and that golden finish.
• Vanilla or Cinnamon Ice Cream: Totally optional, but trust me, it takes this from great to unforgettable.
• Chopped Chocolate: For a little extra decadence and texture on top when serving.

Variations

This Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe is already a winner on its own, but I love to tweak it depending on who’s coming over or what I have on hand. You can easily make it your own and still impress everyone.

• Add Nuts: I sometimes toss in chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for a nice crunch—my kids love the texture contrast.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap evaporated milk for full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free butter, and it still tastes amazing!
• Spiced Up: For a little extra warmth, sprinkle some freshly grated ginger or a pinch of cayenne into the pumpkin mixture.
• Chocolate Lovers: Stir mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking to surprise everyone with melty pockets of chocolate.

How to Make Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Pumpkin Base with Love

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and get your 10-inch oven-safe skillet out — cast iron works beautifully here. In a large bowl, whisk the brown sugar and eggs until smooth and pale. I discovered this step is key because it helps dissolve the sugar so the texture is silky. Next, stir in the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla. Give it a good mix until everything is uniform. Pour this luscious pumpkin mixture right into your skillet and spread it evenly.

Step 2: Create the Homemade Cake Topping

Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This simple “cake mix” topping is what makes this Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe so special. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pumpkin layer — don’t rush this part; even coverage means a consistent, beautiful crust.

Step 3: Butter It Up and Bake

Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the top of the dry mixture. This step is non-negotiable! The butter adds moisture and helps the topping turn golden and slightly crunchy. Pop the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is a light golden color and set (it might jiggle a bit but not look wet). Resist the urge to dig in immediately — let it cool in the skillet for at least 30 minutes. This “setting” time is crucial so the cobbler firms up instead of being too gooey.

How to Serve Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe

Garnishes

I love serving this Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream melting over the warm crust — it instantly takes the dessert up a notch. A sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top adds an aromatic touch. For a bit of fun and texture, I often scatter chopped bittersweet chocolate or toasted pecans right before serving.

Side Dishes

This cobbler is sweet and rich, so I usually keep sides light. A freshly brewed pot of coffee or a warm cup of spiced chai tea pairs perfectly. If you’re serving at a party, I like to offer fresh fruit or a simple green salad beforehand to balance the flavors in the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners, I’ve presented this cobbler right in the skillet on a rustic wooden board surrounded by mini pumpkins and fall leaves to set the mood. If you want to impress guests, serve individual portions straight from the skillet in small ramekins topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick. It’s festive and feels extra special!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover the skillet tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cobbler holds its texture well, and the flavors taste even better the next day once everything has melded. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing.

Freezing

This Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe freezes surprisingly well. I slice it into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When I want a cozy dessert quick, I just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop individual pieces in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through. This helps refresh the cakey topping and keeps the pumpkin base luscious. Serve warm with a fresh scoop of ice cream for the best experience.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Skillet Cobbler Recipe has become one of my all-time fall favorites because it’s easy to make, feels homemade, and delivers those classic pumpkin spice vibes with a fun twist. Whether you’re making it for your family or sharing it with friends, I promise they’ll be asking for seconds — and you’ll love how straightforward it is to pull off. Give it a try and let me know how your cobbler turns out; I’d bet you’ll come back to it every autumn!

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