Description
Southern Chocolate Cobbler is an old-fashioned, decadent dessert that combines a fluffy chocolate batter with a rich, gooey sauce. This warm, chocolatey treat is reminiscent of molten lava cake, but with a homey, comforting twist. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy dessert at home, this cobbler is both easy to make and utterly delicious.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for chocolate lovers and anyone who enjoys warm, gooey desserts. It’s ideal for those looking for a quick and easy dessert that’s impressive enough for special occasions yet simple enough for a weekday treat. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just indulging yourself, this cobbler is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Why It’s Great
- Rich and Gooey: The combination of a fluffy batter and gooey chocolate sauce is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe foolproof.
- Versatile: Great for casual dinners or special occasions.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.
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
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Southern Chocolate Cobbler
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Put the dish in the oven until the butter melts. Once melted, remove the dish from the oven and set it aside.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups sugar, 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir the mixture; let the batter sit on top of the butter.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups sugar and 1/2 cup cocoa powder. Mix well.
- Evenly sprinkle this dry mixture over the batter in the baking dish.
- Add the Boiling Water:
- Pour the boiling water over the topping mixture. Again, do not stir.
- Bake the Cobbler:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges are slightly crispy. The bottom will remain gooey, forming a luscious chocolate sauce.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cobbler to cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce time to thicken slightly.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cocoa powder? Yes, you can use either natural or Dutch-processed cocoa powder. Each will give a slightly different flavor and color.
Can I make this dessert in advance? This cobbler is best served warm, fresh from the oven. However, you can prepare the batter and topping separately and assemble just before baking.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips? Yes, adding nuts or chocolate chips can add extra texture and flavor. Sprinkle them over the batter before adding the boiling water.
Conclusion
Southern Chocolate Cobbler is a deliciously rich and gooey dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. Its warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat that everyone will love. Enjoy this easy-to-make, yet incredibly indulgent dessert anytime you’re in the mood for something sweet and satisfying.
