Southern Chocolate Cobbler

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish and put it in the oven. Allow the butter to melt completely, then remove the dish and set it aside.
2. Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, 4 tablespoons of cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Spoon the batter into the baking dish over the melted butter. Do not stir.
3. Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the baking dish. Pour the boiling water over the topping, ensuring even coverage. Again, do not stir.
4. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top has set. The bottom of the cobbler will remain loose and gooey, which is the signature texture of this dessert.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for about 15 minutes before serving. The cooling period helps the dessert to set properly. Serve warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra layer of indulgence.

A Few Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Cobbler:

• Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality cocoa powder and vanilla extract can significantly enhance the flavor of your cobbler.
• Even Baking: Ensure that your oven is properly preheated before placing the cobbler inside to bake evenly.
• Serving Suggestions: While vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, you can also try serving the cobbler with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

This Southern Chocolate Cobbler is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Its rich and gooey texture combined with the delightful contrast of the crispy top creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you are serving it at a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dessert promises to be a hit every time.