Southern Chocolate Cobbler

by

Instructions

  1. Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ½ cup of butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put it in the preheating oven to melt. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the 1½ cups of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cocoa, and self-rising flour. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and stir until you have a smooth, thick batter.

  3. Layer the Cobbler: Once the butter is melted, carefully remove the hot dish from the oven. Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter. Do not stir.

  4. Add the Dry Topping: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 cups of sugar and ½ cup of cocoa powder. Sprinkle this dry mixture evenly over the top of the batter. Again, do not stir.

  5. Create the Magic Sauce: Very carefully and slowly, pour the 1½ cups of boiling water over the entire contents of the pan. It will look very liquidy at this stage—this is normal and crucial for forming the signature fudgy sauce.

  6. Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The top will be set and have a cake-like texture, while the bottom will be saucy.

  7. Serve and Enjoy: Let the cobbler cool for 15-20 minutes to allow it to set slightly. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the warm chocolate sauce.

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • No Stirring is Key: Resist the urge to mix the layers! The distinct texture relies on this layered method.

  • Self-Rising Flour Substitute: If you don’t have self-rising flour, make your own by whisking 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 3 teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of salt.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the batter and dry topping a few hours in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.

  • Reheating Leftovers: Warm leftovers in the microwave or a low-temperature oven to re-liquify the delicious fudge sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by about ¼ cup in both the batter and the dry topping. However, keeping a sufficient amount is important for the sauce’s consistency and the cobbler’s classic taste.

Does it have to be served warm?
While it’s at its most decadent served warm, leftovers are still delicious cold, with a firmer, brownie-like texture.

What can I serve with it?
A classic scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect pairing. Whipped cream or a sprinkle of berries also work wonderfully to cut through the richness.

This Southern Chocolate Cobbler is more than just a dessert—it’s a taste of home. Simple, soul-satisfying, and irresistibly chocolatey, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

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