1. Make the Batter (5 mins!)
Whisk flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
Stir in milk, melted butter, and vanilla until just combined (batter will be thick).
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2. Layer the Magic
Spread batter into a greased 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder.
Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter.
3. Create the Self-Saucing Effect
Slowly pour hot water over the entire dish—DO NOT STIR!
Watch as the cocoa-sugar mix sinks to form a fudgy layer underneath.
4. Bake to Perfection
350°F (175°C) for 35-40 mins until the top is crackly and the center is gooey but set.
5. Serve Warm!
Let sit 5-10 mins (sauce will thicken slightly).
Scoop into bowls and top with vanilla ice cream (the hot-cold contrast is heavenly!).
Pro Tips for the Best Cobbler
🔥 Don’t overmix the batter – A few lumps are okay!
🔥 Use hot water – Cold water won’t activate the sauce properly.
🔥 Underbake slightly – The center should still jiggle a bit when pulled out.
🔥 Make ahead – Reheat individual portions in the microwave (15-20 secs).
5 Delicious Variations
☕ Mocha Cobbler – Add 1 tsp instant espresso to the dry ingredients.
🌶 Mexican Chocolate – Stir ½ tsp cinnamon + pinch of cayenne into the batter.
🍫 Double Chocolate – Fold ½ cup chocolate chips into the batter.
🥥 Coconut Dream – Top with toasted coconut flakes.
🍒 Black Forest – Add ½ cup pitted cherries before baking.
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