Southern Chocolate Cobbler
Southern Chocolate Cobbler is the ultimate comfort dessert for chocolate lovers. While traditional cobblers are known for their bubbling fruit fillings and biscuit-style toppings, this old-fashioned Southern classic replaces fruit with something even better — rich, fudgy chocolate.
As it bakes, the batter magically transforms into two layers: a soft, cake-like chocolate top and a warm, molten chocolate sauce underneath. The result is an ooey-gooey, spoonable dessert that tastes like a cross between a brownie, a lava cake, and a pudding — all in one irresistible dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra-rich and deeply chocolatey
- Creates its own chocolate sauce while baking
- Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and holidays
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Best served warm with vanilla ice cream
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
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put it in the oven until melted. Carefully remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk and vanilla extract and stir until smooth.
Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir.
Step 3: Add the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the topping sugar and cocoa powder. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
Carefully pour boiling water over the top — do not stir. This liquid will sink and form the rich chocolate sauce during baking.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is set and crackled but the bottom remains soft and saucy.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let cool for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle. Spoon into bowls and serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Pro Tips
- Do not stir after layering — the magic depends on it.
- Use good-quality cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor.
- Serve warm for the best gooey texture.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in the microwave.
Variations
- Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- Use dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave before serving.
Final Thoughts
Southern Chocolate Cobbler is proof that comfort food doesn’t need fruit to be magical. With its rich chocolate flavor, gooey sauce, and cake-like topping, this dessert is pure Southern indulgence in every bite.
If you love brownies, pudding, and molten chocolate cake, this cobbler will quickly become one of your favorite desserts.