Name: Southern Banana Cobbler
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4–5 ripe bananas, sliced; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 tbsp brown sugar (plus extra for topping); 2 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 cup whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Southern banana cobbler is a warm, buttery, old-fashioned dessert filled with tender banana slices and baked under a soft, golden crust. It’s sweet, rich, and comfort food at its finest—like banana pudding and cobbler had a baby. Whether I serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream, this cobbler always brings that cozy Southern charm to the table.

Southern Banana Cobbler

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick to throw together and made with simple ingredients I usually have on hand. The bananas caramelize slightly as they bake, creating a soft, gooey filling that pairs perfectly with the crisp, buttery crust. It’s different from the usual peach or berry cobblers and has a flavor that feels both nostalgic and special.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ripe bananas (sliced)
Unsalted butter (melted)
All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Whole milk
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, I whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. I add in the milk and vanilla, stirring just until combined.
I pour the batter evenly over the melted butter—without stirring—and gently layer the banana slices over the top.
I sprinkle a mix of brown sugar and cinnamon over the bananas for a caramelized finish.
I bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
I let it cool slightly before serving, though I love it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 8 people. It takes 10–15 minutes to prepare and 40–45 minutes to bake, so I can have it ready in just about an hour.

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of bourbon for a deeper flavor.
Chopped pecans sprinkled on top add a nice crunch and Southern flair.
A swirl of cream cheese through the batter gives it a banana pudding vibe.
For extra sweetness, I drizzle a bit of sweetened condensed milk on top before baking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm a portion in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or heat the entire dish in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes. It’s just as delicious the next day, and maybe even better.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas?

Yes, I prefer using ripe but not mushy bananas. They soften as they bake, so firm ripe bananas give the best texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often bake it a few hours ahead. I just reheat it gently in the oven before serving to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes, if I use self-rising flour, I just skip the baking powder and salt in the recipe.

What if I want it less sweet?

I reduce the sugar a bit, especially the brown sugar topping, and it still comes out deliciously balanced.

Can I freeze banana cobbler?

I don’t usually freeze it, since bananas can change texture after freezing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Conclusion

Southern banana cobbler is a warm, comforting dessert that brings classic flavors together in the most irresistible way. With its gooey banana filling and golden crust, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever I want a cozy dessert that feels straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Once I tried it, it became a regular in my dessert rotation.