Southern Chocolate Cobbler
Introduction
Southern Chocolate Cobbler is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of comfort food. This decadent treat features a rich chocolate batter topped with a luscious chocolate sauce that forms while baking. When served warm, it pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a dessert experience that’s both indulgent and satisfying. This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic Southern dish that is sure to impress family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe for Southern Chocolate Cobbler is simple to make and requires minimal effort, yet it delivers extraordinary flavor. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a sweet treat after a long day. The combination of the fudgy chocolate bottom and the warm, gooey topping makes it incredibly comforting. With just a few ingredients you probably already have at home, this dessert is an easy way to bring a taste of the South to your table.
How to Make Southern Chocolate Cobbler
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
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Melt the Butter:
Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put it in the oven until the butter melts completely. Once melted, remove the dish from the oven and set it aside.
Prepare the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups sugar, 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish, but do not stir.
Add the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together 2 cups of sugar and 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the batter in the pan.
Pour Boiling Water:
Carefully pour 3 cups of boiling water over the topping. Again, do not stir. The water will sit on top, but as it bakes, it will turn into a rich chocolate sauce underneath.
Bake the Cobbler:
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set but the bottom is still a bit gooey and loose. The top will be firm, while the inside will have a molten, pudding-like texture.
Cool and Serve:
Let the cobbler cool for about 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect Southern dessert!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35-40 minutes | Servings: 8-10
How to Serve Southern Chocolate Cobbler
Serve the Southern Chocolate Cobbler warm, ideally with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream melts slightly against the warm cobbler, creating a perfect combination of flavors and temperatures. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
How to Store Southern Chocolate Cobbler
Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through. Serve with fresh ice cream to maintain the delightful taste.
Tips to Make Southern Chocolate Cobbler
- Don’t Stir: When adding the boiling water, resist the urge to stir. Keeping the layers separate helps create that delicious chocolate sauce beneath the cobbler.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise and texture.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust the baking time. Keep an eye on it to achieve the perfect gooey consistency.
Variation (If Any)
For a twist, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for added crunch. You could also try using different extracts, like almond, to change the flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter. Just reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Can I make this cobbler in advance?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the batter and topping separately and assemble before baking for a quicker dessert.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
If you’re out of cocoa powder, you can use a similar quantity of dark chocolate, melted, but this may change the texture slightly.
