If you are searching for a dessert that delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, crunchy, and buttery textures, this Strawberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with fresh strawberries and topped with a uniquely delicious pecan crust infused with brown sugar, this cobbler transforms simple pantry ingredients into a lovingly crafted treat. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply brighten up a weeknight dinner, this dessert feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and effective ingredient list, each chosen to enhance the flavor, texture, or aroma of the cobbler. From fresh strawberries that bring vibrant juiciness to the rich, nutty pecan topping that adds crunch, every component plays an essential role in the final masterpiece.
- 8 cups strawberries (quartered): The star of the dish, fresh and juicy for that natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- â…“ cup sugar: Balances the tartness of the strawberries and helps create a syrup as it bakes.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds an uplifting brightness that enhances the berry flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry juices into the perfect filling consistency.
- Zest from one lemon: Infuses a subtle citrus aroma that elevates every bite.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cobbler topping for a tender texture.
- â…“ cup sugar: Sweetens the cobbler topping just right without overpowering.
- â…“ cup brown sugar: Adds moistness and richness to the crust with its caramel notes.
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder: Helps achieve a light, fluffy topping that complements the fruit.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and boosts the other flavors beautifully.
- ½ cup butter (cut into small pieces): Creates a buttery, crumbly texture.
- â…“ cup boiling water: Brings together the topping mixture into a spreadable batter.
- ¾ cup brown sugar: Key to the luscious pecan crust’s caramelized flavor.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the crunchy pecan topping.
- ¾ cup chopped pecans: Provides a delightfully nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft fruit and tender crust.
- ¼ cup butter (melted): Binds and enriches the pecan topping for a golden finish.
How to Make Strawberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms up, spray a 9 x 13 inch or 3-quart deep baking dish with non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes sure your cobbler comes out in one lovely piece, ready to serve.
Step 2: Create the Strawberry Filling
Remove the stems from your strawberries, rinse them gently, and quarter each berry. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Next, sprinkle sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch over the berries. Stir everything together and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the sugar dissolve and the cornstarch start thickening the juices, turning into a luscious filling once baked. Then pour the strawberry mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Mix the Cobbler Topping
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt together. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and incorporate it into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or fork until it’s crumbly like coarse sand. Pour boiling water into the mix and stir until just combined; this will be a spreadable topping that gently covers your strawberry filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler
Spoon the cobbler topping evenly over the strawberries, spreading gently to cover the fruit completely without pressing down too hard. This ensures the topping bakes with a soft, fluffy texture that perfectly contrasts with the filling.
Step 5: Add the Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter to create a crunchy, buttery crust. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cobbler topping. The pecan crust adds an irresistible crunch and a depth of flavor that makes this strawberry cobbler truly stand out.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cobbler uncovered for 50 to 55 minutes until the topping is fully cooked and beginning to brown. Keep an eye on it; if the crust starts to brown too much, gently cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning. The smell of warm pecans and strawberries filling your kitchen is simply heavenly!
Step 7: Serve Warm
Serve your Strawberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Recipe warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing. The cool ice cream melts into the cobbler’s warm fruit and crunchy topping, creating a dessert experience you’ll want to savor again and again!
How to Serve Strawberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves can make your cobbler look as delightful as it tastes. A drizzle of honey or a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a lovely finishing touch that complements the brown sugar pecan crust beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cobbler shines as a standalone dessert but also pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh fruit salad or a smooth custard. You can also enjoy it alongside a cup of hot coffee or a cold glass of milk for a comforting treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with the pecan crust. You can also turn this dessert into a trifle by layering the cobbler with whipped cream and berries in a clear glass dish, showing off its beautiful layers to guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cobbler covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crust may soften slightly, but reheating will restore some of its crispness and bring back that freshly baked charm.
Freezing
This Strawberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds or heat the whole cobbler in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning, and serve warm to enjoy that perfect combo of warm fruit and crunchy crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries in the Strawberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing with sugar and lemon juice to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
How do I make sure the pecan crust stays crunchy?
Adding the pecan crust during the last assembly step and baking it uncovered helps it to crisp up nicely. If needed, you can broil it for a minute or two at the end but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Is there a nut-free alternative for this cobbler?
Of course! You can swap pecans for rolled oats or crushed pretzels to maintain crunch without nuts, giving a different but equally tasty topping.
Can I substitute butter in the crust?
Butter is key for flavor and texture here, but if you prefer, you can use a non-dairy margarine in equal amounts for a dairy-free option.
How do I avoid the topping getting soggy?
Make sure to sprinkle the cornstarch over the strawberries and let the filling sit so it thickens before baking. Also, covering the topping gently and not pressing it down keeps it light and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Recipe is a shining example of how loving attention to simple ingredients can create something truly special. From the juicy, sweet strawberries to the irresistibly crunchy pecan topping, every bite sparks joy. I can’t recommend this dessert enough—grab your apron and give it a try; you’ll be smiling at every spoonful!
Print
Strawberry Cobbler with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Cobbler Recipe features a delightful brown sugar pecan crust topping that adds a rich, nutty crunch to juicy, lemon-kissed strawberries. With a tender cobbler topping and a buttery pecan finish, this dessert is perfect for warm gatherings and is best served with vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Strawberry Filling
- 8 cups strawberries, quartered
- â…“ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Zest from one lemon
Cobbler Topping
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- â…“ cup sugar
- â…“ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup butter, cut into small pieces
- â…“ cup boiling water
Brown Sugar Pecan Crust Topping
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9 x 13-inch deep baking dish, or a 3-quart baking dish, with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prep Strawberries: Remove the stems from strawberries, rinse thoroughly, and cut them into quarters. Place the prepared strawberries in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Strawberry Filling: Add sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and lemon zest to the strawberries. Stir to combine and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to macerate and release juices.
- Fill Baking Dish: Pour the strawberry mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring the juices are included.
- Prepare Cobbler Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Use a pastry blender or fork to cut the butter pieces into the flour mixture until the mixture is crumbly, resembling coarse crumbs.
- Add Boiling Water: Pour the boiling water into the flour mixture and stir gently until just combined to form a batter that can be spooned over the strawberries.
- Top Strawberries: Spoon the cobbler topping evenly over the strawberries, spreading gently to cover the fruit completely without mixing layers.
- Make Pecan Crust Topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Stir until well mixed.
- Add Pecan Topping: Sprinkle the brown sugar pecan mixture evenly over the cobbler topping to create a nutty crust.
- Bake: Place the cobbler uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the topping is thoroughly cooked and starting to brown. If the topping browns too fast, lightly cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the strawberry filling is thickened with cornstarch to prevent excess liquid.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Adjust sugar amounts based on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- Cover the cobbler with foil if the topping is browning too quickly during baking.
- Serve warm for best taste and texture, especially with ice cream.
