pecan cobbler skillet (grain free, vegan)
There’s something about a warm cobbler straight out of the oven that screams comfort. Add pecans into the mix, and you’ve got a dessert that feels indulgent, cozy, and perfect for any occasion. This Pecan Cobbler Skillet combines a gooey, caramel-like pecan filling with a soft, grain-free cobbler topping for the ultimate treat. Whether it’s for a fall gathering, Friendsgiving, or simply a cozy night at home, this cobbler is guaranteed to impress—and it’s grain-free and dairy-free, so everyone can enjoy it!
What Makes This Cobbler Special?
• Rich, Nutty Flavor: The filling, made with pecans, maple sugar, and coconut oil, delivers buttery caramel notes that pair beautifully with the nutty cobbler topping.
• Grain-Free & Dairy-Free: Made with almond flour, tapioca starch, and dairy-free milk, this dessert caters to those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: The cobbler comes together easily in a skillet, making it not only delicious but also incredibly easy to serve straight from the pan.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a classic pairing or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying, sweet finale to your meal.
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
I wanted to create a dessert that felt nostalgic and decadent but with a healthier, allergen-friendly twist. Traditional pecan cobblers are often loaded with refined sugars, flours, and dairy. By using wholesome ingredients like almond flour, coconut sugar, and dairy-free milk, this cobbler delivers all the indulgence of the classic without the heaviness. The best part? It’s a dessert everyone at the table can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences.
Tips for Making the Best Pecan Cobbler Skillet
1. Use Fresh Pecans: Pecans are the star of this dessert, so make sure they’re fresh and high-quality for the best flavor. Toasting them lightly before adding them to the filling can also enhance their nuttiness.
2. Don’t Skip the Coconut Oil: Refined coconut oil adds richness to both the filling and cobbler without the coconut flavor, ensuring the classic pecan cobbler taste shines through.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: Maple sugar and coconut sugar bring a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Feel free to adjust the quantities slightly to suit your taste.
4. Serve Warm: This cobbler is best served warm when the filling is gooey and the topping is soft and tender. If you’re making it ahead, reheat it in the oven before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
5. Customize Your Toppings: While the cobbler is fantastic on its own, a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream takes it to the next level.
How to Serve Pecan Cobbler Skillet at Friendsgiving
This skillet dessert is ideal for sharing. Its rustic presentation in a cast iron skillet adds a homey, inviting feel to the table. Here are a few serving suggestions
What Makes This Cobbler Special?
• Rich, Nutty Flavor: The filling, made with pecans, maple sugar, and coconut oil, delivers buttery caramel notes that pair beautifully with the nutty cobbler topping.
• Grain-Free & Dairy-Free: Made with almond flour, tapioca starch, and dairy-free milk, this dessert caters to those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: The cobbler comes together easily in a skillet, making it not only delicious but also incredibly easy to serve straight from the pan.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a classic pairing or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying, sweet finale to your meal.
For Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a pinch of salt to the filling for added depth.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and topping separately up to a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Tips for Making the Best Pecan Cobbler Skillet
1. Use Fresh Pecans: Pecans are the star of this dessert, so make sure they’re fresh and high-quality for the best flavor. Toasting them lightly before adding them to the filling can also enhance their nuttiness.
2. Don’t Skip the Coconut Oil: Refined coconut oil adds richness to both the filling and cobbler without the coconut flavor, ensuring the classic pecan cobbler taste shines through.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: Maple sugar and coconut sugar bring a deep, caramel-like sweetness. Feel free to adjust the quantities slightly to suit your taste.
4. Serve Warm: This cobbler is best served warm when the filling is gooey and the topping is soft and tender. If you’re making it ahead, reheat it in the oven before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
5. Customize Your Toppings: While the cobbler is fantastic on its own, a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream takes it to the next level.
Ingredients
Pecan Filling
- 1/2 cup maple sugar
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 cup pecan halves
Cobbler Topping
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup tapioca starch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup maple sugar, or coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup dairy-free milk of choice, almond, oat, or coconut work well
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish.
Prepare the Filling
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple sugar, coconut oil, and water. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 3-4 minutes).
- Pour the mixture into the prepared skillet and evenly scatter the pecan halves over the top.
Make the Cobbler Topping
- In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, tapioca starch, baking powder, and maple sugar.
- Add the vanilla extract, melted coconut oil, and dairy-free milk, stirring until a thick batter forms.
Assemble the Cobbler
- Spoon the cobbler batter over the pecan filling, spreading it evenly but leaving some gaps for the filling to bubble through.
Bake the Cobbler
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cobbler topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Cool and Serve
- Let the cobbler cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, topped with dairy-free vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
• Skillet Substitute: If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, use a 9-inch round or square baking dish.
