Southern Chocolate Cobbler

When you think of cobbler, you probably imagine a bubbling, saucy fruit topped with a sweet, biscuity batter. But this Southern Chocolate Cobbler offers a delightful twist. With its ooey-gooey molten bottom and cakey chocolate top, this old-fashioned dessert perfectly fits the cobbler criteria—except there’s no fruit in sight. Instead, you get an abundance of rich chocolate, which is always a welcome treat!

Think of it as an early version of a molten lava cake, only much easier to make. You start by melting butter in a baking dish in the oven, sprinkle the top with cocoa powder and sugar, pour boiling water over the entire thing (without stirring!), and pop it in the oven. While it bakes, the layers naturally form, resulting in a somewhat crispy, cakey top with a deliciously gooey bottom.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southern Chocolate Cobbler is a chocolate lover’s dream! It’s simple to make with just a few steps and basic ingredients. Its unique texture combination of a cakey top and molten bottom will impress any dessert enthusiast. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• An oven
• A 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• A whisk or mixing spoon

Ingredients

For the Batter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups boiling water
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put it in the oven. Once the butter has melted, remove the dish and set it aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, stir together 1 1/2 cups sugar, 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, flour, milk, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Spoon this mixture into the baking dish over the melted butter, but do not stir.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining 2 cups sugar and 1/2 cup cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture over the batter in the pan. Pour the boiling water over the topping, but again, do not stir.
5. Bake the cobbler for 35-40 minutes, or until the top has set. The bottom will remain loose and gooey.
6. Allow the cobbler to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Tips for Success

Resist the urge to stir after adding the layers. The magic happens when the layers remain undisturbed. Also, let the cobbler cool a bit before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a fun twist, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt to the topping before baking. You can also try serving it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra decadence.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dessert is rich and indulgent, so enjoy it in moderation. Each serving offers a delightful balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a satisfying treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cobbler in advance? Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat it gently before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm.

Can I use a different size baking dish? A different size dish will affect the baking time, so adjust accordingly. The 9×13-inch size is recommended for best results.

Can I use salted butter? If using salted butter, omit the additional salt in the recipe.

Conclusion

This Southern Chocolate Cobbler is a comforting and indulgent dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. I hope you give it a try soon and experience its deliciousness for yourself. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you try—I’d love to hear about your kitchen adventures!