Name: Chocolate Cobbler
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ⅔ cup sugar; 1½ tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; ½ cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional); ¼ cup sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 cup boiling water

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and nostalgic this recipe is. It comes together with pantry staples, requires no special equipment, and takes just one pan. The best part? I don’t need to mix anything once the ingredients are in the baking dish—just layer and bake. It’s the perfect recipe when I’m craving something warm, chocolaty, and deeply satisfying in under an hour.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Batter:
1 cup flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Topping:
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 cup boiling water

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 1.5-quart casserole or square baking dish.
In a medium mixing bowl, I combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cocoa powder.
Then I stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla until a thick batter forms. If I’m adding walnuts, I fold them in now.
I spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In another bowl, I mix together the topping: sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cocoa powder. I sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter—no stirring.
Carefully, I pour the boiling water over the entire dish. It’s important not to stir at this point.
I bake the cobbler for about 30 minutes, or until the top is set and the cake has risen, forming a fudgy pudding underneath.

I serve it warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6 servings
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

When I want to deepen the flavor, I swap the boiling water for hot coffee or espresso. I’ve also added chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate chunks to the batter for extra gooey pockets. Sometimes I drizzle caramel sauce over the top after baking or mix in peanut butter chips for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers at room temperature for up to 24 hours, covered tightly. For longer storage, I refrigerate the cobbler in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To reheat, I scoop out a serving onto a microwave-safe plate and warm it for 20–30 seconds. It softens up beautifully and tastes just as indulgent as when fresh.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

I don’t recommend assembling it in advance, since the water layer needs to be poured right before baking. However, I often prep the dry ingredients ahead so everything is ready to go when I need a quick dessert.

How do I know when the cobbler is done?

I check the top of the cake for doneness—it should be set and slightly firm to the touch. If the center still looks like raw batter, I bake it a few more minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double it often using a 9×13-inch baking dish. I also double the boiling water to match. It turns out perfectly and is great for feeding a crowd.

What’s the best cocoa powder to use?

I’ve used both regular and dark cocoa powder. Dark cocoa gives it a more intense chocolate flavor, which I love for a richer result.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely. I’ve added chocolate chips, toffee bits, chopped candy bars, or even marshmallows for a rocky road vibe. It’s a fun recipe to play with.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Cobbler is the kind of recipe that never fails to bring comfort and smiles. With a perfectly soft cake top and a molten fudge bottom, it’s everything I want in a warm chocolate dessert. It’s easy, fast, and always a crowd favorite—especially when served with a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream. Whether I’m baking for a family gathering or just need a chocolate fix, this cobbler always hits the spot.