Southern Chocolate Cobbler is a beloved dessert that’s rich, gooey, and oh-so-indulgent. With a fudgy chocolate layer on the bottom and a soft, cake-like topping, this dessert is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 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
Instructions
Preparing the Chocolate Layer
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and well mixed.
- Spread Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Making the Topping
- Mix Sugar and Cocoa: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder for the topping.
- Sprinkle Over Batter: Sprinkle the sugar-cocoa mixture evenly over the batter in the baking dish.
- Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour the boiling water over the sugar-cocoa mixture and batter. Do not stir.
Baking
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Serve: Remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes:
- Butter: Make sure the butter is fully melted but not hot when adding it to the batter.
- Boiling Water: The boiling water creates a rich sauce as the cobbler bakes, so make sure to pour it evenly over the top.
Variations:
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the batter before adding the topping for an extra chocolatey treat.
- Fruit: Layer sliced bananas or berries between the batter and topping for a fruity twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While this cobbler is best served warm, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it in the oven before serving.
Q: Can I use Dutch-process cocoa powder?
A: Yes, you can use Dutch-process cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Q: Can I use a different size baking dish?
A: Yes, you can use a different size baking dish, but the baking time may vary. Adjust the baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the cobbler as it bakes.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Southern Chocolate Cobbler is a classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich chocolate flavor and comforting texture, this cobbler is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this indulgent dessert is guaranteed to delight your taste buds. Try making this decadent treat today and enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality!
