There’s something so nostalgic about Southern desserts—they’re warm, comforting, and always made with love. This Southern Banana Cobbler is no exception. Imagine sweet, tender bananas baked under a golden, buttery crust, with hints of vanilla and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. It’s a simple, down-home recipe that feels like a hug in every bite.
Perfect for Sunday suppers, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this cobbler uses pantry staples and comes together with ease. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes like pure comfort.
Recipe Info
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert, Southern Classic |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 6–8 |
| Calories | ~320 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven & Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure the bottom is evenly coated. - Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth. The batter will be thin—don’t worry, that’s exactly right. - Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the batter gently over the melted butter in the baking dish—do not stir. Evenly layer the banana slices over the top. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired. - Bake to Golden Goodness
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is puffed, golden, and slightly crisp around the edges. - Serve & Enjoy
Let the cobbler rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Spoon into bowls and serve warm, with or without ice cream.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe but not mushy bananas. Too soft, and they’ll disappear into the batter.
- No Self-Rising Flour? Substitute 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1½ teaspoons baking powder + ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Recipe Variations
- Tropical Twist: Add sliced pineapple or shredded coconut along with the bananas.
- Nutty Cobbler: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking.
- Lighter Option: Swap whole milk for almond milk or oat milk, and reduce sugar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- A hot cup of coffee or sweet tea on the side makes it perfectly Southern.
Conclusion
This Southern Banana Cobbler is the kind of dessert that makes any day feel special. It’s easy, cozy, and full of that homemade flavor that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re serving it on a quiet weeknight or sharing it at a family gathering, this cobbler will quickly become a recipe you’ll treasure.