Why Make This Recipe
Southern Banana Cobbler is a delightful dessert that brings the sweet taste of ripe bananas together with a buttery, crumbly topping. This dish is an easy way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. It combines comforting flavors and textures that are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering. Plus, it can be quickly thrown together and baked, making it a fantastic choice for busy home cooks.
How to Make Southern Banana Cobbler
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup self-rising flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup uncooked old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons banana extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart or 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and softened butter using a fork until crumbly.
- Stir in the oats and chopped pecans. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and milk until just combined.
- Stir in the melted butter.
- Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the banana slices evenly over the batter.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the bananas.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Serve warm. For extra flavor, top with vanilla ice cream and additional banana slices if desired.
How to Serve Southern Banana Cobbler
Southern Banana Cobbler is best served warm straight from the oven. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for a delicious treat. You can also garnish it with a few extra banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
How to Store Southern Banana Cobbler
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Southern Banana Cobbler
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor; they should be brown and soft.
- Don’t skip the banana extract; it enhances the banana flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of pecans or omit them if you prefer a nut-free cobbler.
- Serve with ice cream while it’s still warm for a delicious treat.
Variation
You can try adding other fruits like blueberries or strawberries to the cobbler for a mixed fruit version. This adds a unique twist and extra flavor to the dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
A: Yes, you can use frozen bananas, but make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the cobbler.
Q: Is there a gluten-free version?
A: You can substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cobbler mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best taste and texture.