Introduction

Southern Banana Cobbler is a comforting dessert that combines ripe bananas with a tender, cinnamon-spiced topping. This sweet treat is perfect for showcasing ripe bananas and offers a warm, cozy finish to any meal.

A single square slice of bread pudding sits in the middle of a white plate on a white marbled surface, showing three distinct layers: the bottom layer is soft and creamy with a light beige color, the middle is a dense, slightly sugary bread mixture with darker brown toasted bits, and the top has a crumbly, crunchy texture with golden brown and darker caramelized spots. On top of the bread pudding, there are three round banana slices arranged at different angles, their pale yellow color contrasting with the darker topping. A swirl of white whipped cream sits in the center behind the banana slices, and thick amber syrup slowly drips down over the bananas and sides of the bread pudding, pooling on the plate below. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 ripe bananas, sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup buttermilk, cold
6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Turbinado sugar, for sprinkling
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the bananas about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 2: In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced bananas with granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, water, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 3: Let the banana mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: In a separate large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk cold buttermilk, melted and slightly cooled butter, and vanilla extract.
Step 6: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the topping light.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 8: Pour the banana filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 9: Gently pour the cobbler topping over the banana filling, spreading evenly.
Step 10: If desired, sprinkle turbinado sugar over the top for added crunch and sweetness.
Step 11: Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 12: Remove from the oven and let cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Step 13: Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you like.

Tips & Variations

For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the topping before baking.
If buttermilk is unavailable, substitute with milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves can enhance the warm spice flavor.

Storage

Store leftover cobbler covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. For best texture, avoid reheating multiple times.

How to Serve

A close-up of a single square piece of bread pudding with three visible layers: a top layer that is golden brown and crumbly with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a middle layer of creamy white custard peeking through, and a moist, textured base layer made of soaked bread. On top of the pudding are three round, light yellow banana slices, a small dollop of white whipped cream, and a fresh green mint leaf. Amber syrup is being poured over the bananas, dripping down the side onto the white plate beneath, which has a reflective surface. The background is softly blurred with warm brown and blue tones, set on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the topping and banana filling separately and assemble just before baking. This keeps the topping fresh and prevents sogginess.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.