Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to crafting a perfect Southern Chocolate Cobbler. This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a dessert that’s both indulgent and approachable.

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup milk
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups hot water

If you’re out of cocoa powder, you can substitute with melted dark chocolate for an even richer flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of cayenne can add a subtle heat, reminiscent of the spicy notes often found in Mexican desserts.

Instructions

Creating this Southern Chocolate Cobbler is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s walk through the steps to bring this delicious dessert to life.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder.
Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined to form a smooth batter.
Spread the batter evenly into an ungreased 9×9-inch baking dish.
In a separate small bowl, mix the brown sugar and 1/4 cup cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the baking dish.
Carefully pour the hot water over the top of the entire mixture. Do not stir.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges are bubbling.
Allow the cobbler to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps the chocolate sauce thicken slightly, making it even more luscious.

As a tip from my own experience, resist the urge to stir the batter after adding the hot water. This is key to achieving the perfect layered effect with a gooey chocolate sauce beneath the cake topping.

Author: Jenny
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: International