Carmen’s Butterscotch Cobbler

If you’re looking for a warm, gooey, sweet dessert that tastes like a big hug in a bowl, Carmen’s Butterscotch Cobbler is it. This classic southern-style dessert features a soft, cake-like topping that bakes over a rich butterscotch sauce, creating its own layers of golden goodness. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that feels like pure comfort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Old-Fashioned Flavor – Tastes like something straight out of Grandma’s kitchen.
Self-Saucing Magic – Bakes with a rich, gooey butterscotch layer on the bottom.
Simple Ingredients – Everything you need is probably already in your pantry.
Crowd Favorite – Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks.
Best Served Warm – Ideal with ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Butterscotch Sauce:

• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups boiling water
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional for warm spice)

For Serving:

• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional but highly recommended)

Tools You’ll Need

• 8×8-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small saucepan or kettle for boiling water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until just combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Butterscotch Sauce
In a small saucepan (or mixing bowl if water is already boiled), combine the brown sugar, 2 tablespoons butter, and cinnamon (if using).
Pour the boiling water over the mixture and stir until everything is dissolved and smooth.

Step 4: Add the Sauce to the Batter
Carefully pour the butterscotch sauce over the batter in the baking dish.
Do not stir. The sauce will sink to the bottom during baking and become a thick, rich layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is just set.
You’ll notice the sauce bubbling up around the edges—exactly what you want!

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the cobbler sit for about 10 minutes to set.
Serve warm, spooning both cake and sauce into each bowl.
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Tips for the Best Butterscotch Cobbler
Use Boiling Water – This is key to creating the sauce during baking.
Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
Let It Rest – A short cooling time helps the sauce thicken and flavors develop.
Double the Recipe – Easily scaled up for a crowd in a 9×13 pan.
Add Nuts – Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions
Pair Carmen’s Butterscotch Cobbler with:

• Vanilla ice cream or butter pecan ice cream
• Fresh sliced bananas or sautéed apples
• A cup of hot coffee or chai tea

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Store in the baking dish or transfer to an airtight container.

Reheating:
Microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds until warmed through.
To reheat the whole dish, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! Bake it earlier in the day and reheat gently before serving.
2. Can I use dark brown sugar instead?
   Yes, it will make the sauce richer and deeper in flavor.
3. Is this the same as a pudding cake?
   Very similar! It’s also known as a self-saucing pudding or cobbler in some regions.
4. Can I use almond milk or a dairy-free butter substitute?
   Absolutely! This recipe works well with plant-based alternatives.

Final Thoughts
Carmen’s Butterscotch Cobbler is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. With a tender cake top and a decadent sauce that forms as it bakes, every spoonful is pure comfort. Whether it’s for a Sunday dinner, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, this dessert brings warmth and nostalgia to your table.

Make it once, and it might just become a family tradition. Be sure to share your creations and let us know how you liked it!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 360 | Protein: 3g | Carbohydrates: 50g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 160mg

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