Name: Southern Chocolate Cobbler
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.75 cup granulated sugar 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (for batter); 0.5 cup whole milk; 0.3 cup melted butter; 0.75 cup brown sugar; 0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for topping); 1.5 cups boiling water

Southern Chocolate Cobbler is the kind of dessert that takes you back to warm Sunday afternoons in your grandma’s kitchen. It’s indulgent and gooey, with a molten chocolate center that bubbles up beneath a tender cakey crust. This Southern classic is everything you want in comfort food: rich, easy to make, and unbelievably satisfying.

What makes this cobbler magical is the way the ingredients shift during baking. The chocolate batter floats to the top, while the hot cocoa syrup settles into the bottom, creating a self-saucing dessert that practically begs for a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself, this recipe never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Chocolate Cobbler

Deeply chocolatey: Two types of cocoa powder and melted butter ensure intense flavor.
One-dish wonder: No mixing bowls needed—everything comes together right in the baking dish.
Minimal effort, maximum reward: No fancy techniques or ingredients.
Perfect for gatherings: Serves a crowd and tastes even better with ice cream on top.
Vintage Southern comfort: A nostalgic treat with true Southern charm.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the best Southern Chocolate Cobbler, you’ll want to gather the right tools before diving in:

9×13-inch baking dish: This is your main vessel for mixing and baking. It’s crucial for evenly spreading the batter and allowing the sauce to form underneath.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key to nailing the gooey-to-cakey ratio.
Whisk: Helps in combining the dry ingredients smoothly and evenly.
Sifter (optional): Useful if your cocoa powder is clumpy—ensures a silky batter.
Rubber spatula or spoon: Ideal for smoothing the batter evenly across the dish.

Since everything gets layered in the same dish, cleanup is a breeze. This recipe is as stress-free as it is delicious.

Ingredients for the Southern Chocolate Cobbler

All-purpose flour: Provides the base structure for the cakey topping.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the batter and the sauce.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor; you’ll use it in both the batter and the sauce.
Baking powder: Gives the batter a lift so it rises above the sauce.
Salt: Enhances and balances the chocolate’s sweetness.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the batter.
Melted butter: Infuses richness and helps with the cobbler’s golden finish.
Brown sugar: Deepens the flavor of the sauce with a hint of molasses.
Boiling water: Activates the sauce, dissolves the sugars, and creates that signature molten layer.

How To Make the Southern Chocolate Cobbler

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In your 9×13-inch baking dish, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and half of the cocoa powder until fully combined.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk and melted butter. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula until a smooth batter forms. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Layer the Cocoa and Sugar Topping

Sprinkle the brown sugar and remaining cocoa powder evenly over the batter without stirring it in. This step forms the rich sauce underneath.

Step 4: Add the Boiling Water

Carefully pour the boiling water over the entire mixture. Don’t stir. Just let it sit on top—this is what helps create the cobbler’s gooey chocolate base.

Step 5: Bake to Gooey Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes. The top should be set and slightly crisp, but the chocolate sauce will be bubbling underneath.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Spoon into bowls and top with vanilla ice cream for a classic Southern treat.

Serving and Storing Southern Chocolate Cobbler

Southern Chocolate Cobbler is best served warm, straight from the oven when the sauce is bubbling and the top is slightly crisp. A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top instantly melts into the warm cobbler, creating the perfect bite every time.

If you’re prepping ahead, you can make the batter and topping in advance, store them separately in the fridge, and assemble just before baking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this cobbler different from traditional chocolate cake?

Southern Chocolate Cobbler has a self-saucing bottom layer, thanks to the boiling water poured over the batter. It results in a molten chocolate sauce beneath a soft, cakey topping.

Can I use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of natural cocoa?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind that Dutch-processed cocoa has a smoother, less acidic flavor. It will still work but may subtly change the flavor profile.

How do I know it’s done baking?

The top will look set and crackled, while the edges may bubble with chocolate sauce. Don’t overbake—the gooey center is what makes it special.

Is it okay to skip the boiling water?

No—boiling water is essential to forming the gooey chocolate sauce beneath the crust. It creates that luscious molten texture that defines this dessert.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute a good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum or a similar binder for best results.

What other toppings go well with this?

Aside from vanilla ice cream, try whipped cream, chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent finish.

Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If you love this Southern Chocolate Cobbler, you’re sure to adore these other rich, crowd-pleasing treats:

Quick and Easy Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies for a chewy, bakery-style cookie.
Bonnie’s Blue Ribbon Chocolate Dream Cake when you want layers of moist chocolate cake and creamy filling.
Easy Chocolate Pie Recipe for a no-fuss dessert that sets like a dream.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups for a sweet-and-salty twist with gooey centers.
Brownie Refrigerator Cake when you need something cold, creamy, and chocolatey with zero baking required.