Name: Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups hot water

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 25 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the South, this Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine rich, fudgy layers mingling with a delicate cake-like texture, all soaking up an indulgent chocolate sauce that’s so comforting it almost feels like a hug on a plate. This is one of those recipes that’s surprisingly simple but delivers a deep, satisfying chocolate flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dessert hits every note perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat top-down view of various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a wooden surface. At the top left is a rectangular box of light brown sugar with yellow and white packaging. To its right is a clear glass measuring cup filled with water, next to a small round bowl full of white granulated sugar. Below these is a shiny golden yellow bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips with images of chocolate chip cookies on it. Beneath the bag, there is a dark brown container of cocoa powder, a red container of baking powder, and a tall red and white box of vanilla extract. On the bottom left is a clear glass bowl filled with white flour. To the right of the flour, there is a small blue-green dish with white salt, a glass measuring cup filled with milk, and a stick of butter wrapped in yellow paper. The surface under all the items is wooden with a visible grain pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe is a breeze because each one plays a key role in bringing out that classic chocolate goodness and flawless texture. From the richness of melted butter to the sweet punch of brown sugar and the luscious cocoa, every item here is essential.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick, melted): Creates a rich buttery base that makes the cobbler’s crust irresistible.
All-purpose flour (1 1/3 cups): Forms the tender cake layer that holds everything together perfectly.
Light brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the mix.
Baking powder (2 1/2 teaspoons): Gives the cobbler a light, fluffy rise and soft crumb.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup + 2 cups): Sweetens the batter and the chocolate sauce topping beautifully.
Cocoa powder (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Brings that rich, intense chocolate flavor to both the cake and the sauce.
Milk (1 cup): Keeps the batter moist and tender while blending all ingredients smoothly.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate notes.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melt into pockets of gooey chocolate, making every bite indulgent.
Hot water (1 1/2 cups): Pours over the top to create the signature chocolate sauce that soaks into the cobbler.

How to Make Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Butter

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s warming up, pour that luscious melted butter into a 9×9-inch baking dish. This buttery layer is going to create a golden, crispy base that’s critical to the texture of your cobbler.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Next, whisk together the flour, light brown sugar, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and the smaller amount of cocoa powder in a large bowl. This blend balances sweetness and chocolate intensity, setting the stage for the rich cake layer.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients and Chocolate Chips

Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, stirring everything just until combined—overmixing will toughen the cake, so keep it gentle. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips last so they’re scattered throughout, ready to melt and deliver delightful bursts of chocolate throughout your cobbler.

Step 4: Assemble the Batter in the Pan

Pour the batter over the melted butter in the pan and gently spread it to the edges, making sure not to stir it into the butter. This step is key to allowing the butter to create that distinct base and edges.

Step 5: Prepare and Add the Cocoa Sugar Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the remaining granulated sugar and cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. It may look like a lot on top, but trust the process—this sugar layer will melt down and turn into a rich sauce.

Step 6: Pour Hot Water and Bake

Carefully pour the hot water evenly over the top, being careful not to mix it in. This water will interact with the sugar and cocoa, creating a beautiful syrup that soaks into the cobbler as it bakes. Place the baking dish on a larger pan to catch any overflow and pop it into the oven for 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top looks like a dry crust and the edges bubble with chocolate syrup.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cobbler cool for at least 10 minutes so the chocolate sauce thickens just enough but remains ooey-gooey. This is the moment to experience the full magic of this Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe.

How to Serve Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe

A white plate holds a rich chocolate cobbler with three thick, uneven pieces layered together, soaked in a dark, shiny chocolate sauce that spreads across the plate. On top of the cobbler, there is one large scoop of smooth white vanilla ice cream that slightly melts onto the chocolate. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a blurry white jar with milk and another jar holding chocolate chips. Large text in brown and orange reading

Garnishes

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the classic way to make each bite of this cobbler even more indulgent, but fresh whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans can add an extra layer of deliciousness and texture.

Side Dishes

This luscious dessert is a perfect ending to hearty Southern meals like fried chicken or barbecue ribs. If you want to balance out the richness, serve it alongside fresh berries or a light citrus salad to cleanse the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming touch that makes every serving feel special. For a fun twist, add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving—this contrast beautifully enhances the chocolate flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cobbler can be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chocolate sauce will continue to soak into the cake, making each slice even more luscious over time.

Freezing

You can freeze this cobbler before baking by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Bake it straight from frozen, adding extra bake time as needed until bubbly and set. Once baked, leftovers freeze well too—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

When you’re ready for more, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or reheat the entire dish in a 350-degree oven until warmed through. Pairing it again with ice cream is highly recommended for maximum enjoyment.

FAQs

Can I use milk alternatives in the Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe?

Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk substitute will work just fine, although the flavor might be slightly different. The texture should remain just as moist and tender.

Is it possible to make this cobbler gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the texture nice and cakey.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips?

Definitely! Dark chocolate will give a more intense and richer chocolate flavor. If you prefer something less sweet, dark chocolate chips or chunks are a great option.

Why does the top of my cobbler need to look dry and crusty?

The dry crusty top means the sauce underneath has thickened and set properly. It’s a sign that the cobbler has baked long enough to develop that perfect fudgy texture underneath.

What’s the best way to serve this cobbler for a crowd?

Make the full recipe in a large dish and serve with a big bowl of ice cream and optional toppings like nuts and whipped cream nearby. That way, everyone can customize their serving just how they like!

Final Thoughts

If you want a dessert that radiates warmth, comfort, and a whole lot of chocolatey goodness, you have to try this Southern Chocolate Cobbler Recipe. It’s straightforward, incredibly satisfying, and yet special enough to serve at your next family gathering or weekend treat. Once you make it, I’m pretty sure it will become your go-to recipe for sharing a slice of Southern hospitality and sweetness with those you love.