Southern Chocolate Cobbler is a warm, gooey dessert that combines the best of a rich chocolate cake and a molten lava pudding. This indulgent recipe creates a self-saucing dessert where the batter rises to form a soft cake-like top, while the cocoa and sugar form a decadent chocolate sauce underneath. It’s best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate Southern comfort treat.
This classic cobbler is a perfect dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a rich and satisfying chocolate fix. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it a go-to recipe for chocolate lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Rich and Gooey: A molten chocolate sauce forms beneath the cake-like topping for an irresistible texture.
• Easy to Make: No special equipment or complicated techniques required.
• Perfect for Sharing: A dessert everyone will gather around for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Batter:
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Topping:
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 cups boiling water
Optional:
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
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 until melted. Remove the dish and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Batter
1. In a large bowl, stir together the sugar, cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the milk and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
3. Spoon the batter into the prepared baking dish over the melted butter. Do not stir.
Step 3: Add the Topping
1. In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar and cocoa powder. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter in the baking dish.
2. Slowly pour the boiling water over the sugar-cocoa topping. Do not stir.
Step 4: Bake the Cobbler
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is set and has a cake-like texture. The bottom will remain gooey and saucy.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve
1. Serve the cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of hot and cold.
Tips
• Don’t Stir: It’s important not to stir the layers once they’re in the pan, as this ensures the cobbler forms a proper cake and sauce.
• Use Boiling Water: The water must be boiling to create the gooey chocolate sauce underneath the cake.
• Customizations: Add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave.
• Freezing: While the cobbler is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Southern Chocolate Cobbler is a decadent and comforting dessert that’s sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Its rich flavor and warm, gooey texture make it a favorite for any occasion.
