Chocolate Cobbler

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Chocolate Cobbler – A Southern Classic with a Molten Twist

There’s something magical about a dessert that’s both rustic and luxurious. Enter the Chocolate Cobbler—a Southern favorite that’s part cake, part pudding, and 100% irresistible. With a rich, fudgy base and a crackly, brownie-like top, this dessert is the chocolate lover’s dream come true. Best of all? It’s made with pantry staples and comes together in just one pan—no fancy equipment or complicated steps required.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something warm and chocolatey on a cozy night in, this cobbler delivers comfort and decadence in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cobbler

  • Easy to make – No mixers, no layers, no fuss.
  • Pantry-friendly – Uses ingredients you likely already have on hand.
  • Molten magic – A self-saucing dessert that creates its own gooey chocolate layer as it bakes.
  • Perfect for sharing – Serve it family-style straight from the baking dish.
  • Customizable – Add nuts, espresso, or a splash of liqueur for a grown-up twist.

Ingredients

This recipe serves 6–8 generous portions.

For the Batter

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    The base of the cobbler’s cake-like top.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    Helps the batter rise and stay fluffy.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
    Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
    Sweetens the batter and helps create a tender crumb.
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
    Adds rich chocolate flavor.
  • ½ cup milk
    Brings the batter together—use whole milk for extra richness.
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
    Adds moisture and buttery flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    Adds warmth and depth.

For the Topping

  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    Intensifies the chocolate flavor.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
    The combination of sugars creates a caramelized, crackly top and gooey base.

For the Boiling Water

  • 1½ cups hot water
    This is the secret to the molten chocolate layer—don’t skip it!

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
  • A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a spicy kick

Equipment You’ll Need

  • 8×8-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Kettle or saucepan for boiling water
  • Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:

  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

Once combined, stir in:

  • ½ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and lump-free.

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Add the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix:

  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar

Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. Don’t stir—it should sit right on top.

Tip: This layer will sink and mix with the hot water to create the gooey chocolate sauce underneath.

Step 4: Pour the Hot Water

Carefully pour 1½ cups of hot water over the entire dish.

Pour slowly and evenly to avoid disturbing the topping.

Do not stir. This is the key to the cobbler’s signature molten layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes.

The top should be set and slightly crisp, while the bottom remains soft and saucy.

Tip: The cobbler will puff up as it bakes, then settle slightly as it cools.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the cobbler cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Scoop into bowls, making sure to get both the cakey top and the gooey chocolate sauce underneath.

Top with:

  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream
  • A dollop of whipped cream
  • A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce

Serve warm and watch it disappear!

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Total Time: ~1 hour
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Calories: ~320 kcal per serving (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use boiling water: The water must be hot to create the molten layer.
  • Don’t overbake: The top should be set, but the bottom should stay gooey.
  • Serve warm: That’s when the chocolate sauce is at its best.
  • Make ahead: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Add texture: Sprinkle chopped nuts or chocolate chips over the topping before baking.

Variations to Try

  • Mocha Cobbler: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter.
  • Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter into the batter before baking.
  • Spiced Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne for a warm twist.
  • Berry Bliss: Add a handful of raspberries or cherries to the batter for a fruity surprise.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Chocolate Cobbler is a versatile dessert that fits right in at:

  • Family dinners
  • Potlucks and gatherings
  • Holiday celebrations
  • Valentine’s Day or date nights
  • Just-because chocolate cravings

Pair it with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream for the ultimate indulgence

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Cobbler is more than just a dessert—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its rich, gooey center and tender cake topping, it’s the kind of treat that brings people together and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-have in your comfort food collection.

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