Delicious homemade Banana Cobbler dessert served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Banana Cobbler

ByTheo Calderon
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Southern Banana Cobbler

Introduction

Growing up in the South, dessert was often the highlight of family gatherings, a moment that brought everyone together around the kitchen table. One of my all-time favorites was my grandmother’s Southern Banana Cobbler. It was always the star of the show, with its warm, comforting bananas nestled in a rich, buttery crust. The first time I helped her in the kitchen, I can still remember the sweet aroma wafting through the house, making my mouth water. This recipe isn’t just about a delicious dessert; it’s filled with love and memories that I treasure deeply.

My Southern Banana Cobbler represents comfort, family, and that sweet feeling of home. Today, I’m thrilled to share it with you, hoping it brings the same joy to your gatherings as it has to mine.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets the Southern Banana Cobbler apart from other desserts is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sweet, caramelized bananas mingle beautifully with a fluffy, golden crust that’s both soft and slightly crisp. It’s not just dessert; it’s an experience that evokes warm childhood memories and southern hospitality. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe has all the ingredients for happiness.

The secret behind this delicious recipe is simplicity. You’ll find that it requires minimal time and effort while packing a punch of flavor. Not only is it a family favorite that’s sure to impress, but it’s also a healthier alternative to many other desserts, as it’s made with fresh fruits that add natural sweetness.

What You’ll Need

For the Filling:

  • 4 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Notes:

  • Choose bananas that are ripe but not overly mushy for the best texture and flavor.
  • You can use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

Instructions Section

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced bananas, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the bananas evenly. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
  3. Make the Crust: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be thick yet pourable.
  4. Assemble the Cobbler: Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour half of the crust mixture into the bottom of the dish. Spread the banana filling evenly over the crust. Finally, pour the remaining crust mixture on top of the banana filling, ensuring an even layer.
  5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the cobbler cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set up a bit more, making it easier to slice.

Tips & Recipe Variations

  • Storage: Leftovers can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days; reheat in the oven for best results.
  • Freezing: You can freeze slices for up to a month. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Variations:Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch.
  • Fruit Mix: Feel free to mix in other fruits like apples or pears for added flavor.
  • Spices: Try experimenting with nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.

Best Ways to Serve

Southern Banana Cobbler is best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful afternoon treat or a comforting dessert after a hearty meal. When serving, consider using a beautiful, deep dish that showcases the vibrant layers of banana and crust.

FAQ Section

  • Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  • Yes, you can prepare the banana filling and crust separately a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready.
  • Can I freeze the leftovers?
  • Absolutely! Wrap individual slices well and freeze for later. Just remember to thaw before reheating.
  • What can I use instead of brown sugar?
  • You can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar; however, you might miss that rich caramel flavor.
  • How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
  • Make sure your bananas are not overly ripe and allow the filling to sit for a few minutes before baking to let excess moisture escape.
  • Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?
  • Yes, simply use plant-based butter and milk alternatives to make it suitable for vegan diets.

Conclusion

There’s something truly magical about a warm dessert like Southern Banana Cobbler. This recipe is not just a delight for your taste buds but a wonderful way to create lasting memories with family and friends. Each bite brings back those sweet moments spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, reminding me of the love that fuels our most cherished recipes. I encourage you to gather your loved ones, whip up this delicious cobbler, and share your stories over a warm dish that’s made with heart. Enjoy every bite!

“The Southern Banana Cobbler was a hit at our family reunion! It was delicious, with the perfect blend of warm bananas and fluffy crust. Everyone asked for seconds, and I can’t wait to make it again!” – Sarah, family cook and dessert lover.

Delicious homemade Banana Cobbler dessert served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Southern Banana Cobbler

A warm and comforting dessert featuring caramelized bananas nestled in a rich, buttery crust, perfect for family gatherings and creating cherished memories.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweets
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 4 pieces ripe bananas, sliced Choose ripe bananas for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Can be substituted with granulated sugar.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crust
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup milk Use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced bananas, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the bananas evenly. Set aside.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined; the dough should be thick but pourable.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Grease a 9-inch baking dish. Pour half of the crust mixture into the bottom of the dish.
  2. Spread the banana filling evenly over the crust. Pour the remaining crust mixture on top, ensuring an even layer.
  3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Let the cobbler cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can freeze slices tightly wrapped for up to a month. Serve warm, ideally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Theo Calderon
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