Introduction

This Comforting Banana Bread Cobbler is a delightful twist on classic banana bread, offering a soft, cake-like texture with crisp edges. Packed with ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and optional nuts or chocolate chips, it’s perfect for a cozy dessert or sweet breakfast treat.

A white plate holds a square piece of banana dessert with four distinct layers; the bottom layer is a crumbly brown crust, topped by a thick, gooey light brown banana filling, followed by a crunchy golden-brown streusel layer with a rough texture, and the top is decorated with sliced yellow banana pieces partially embedded in the streusel. A dollop of white whipped cream sits on top in the center, all placed on a white marbled surface with blurred bananas in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter (113g), melted
1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk (240ml)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas, sliced
½ cup packed light brown sugar (100g)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and tilt to spread it evenly across the bottom.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the milk and vanilla extract, whisking until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish without stirring. The batter will rise and create a soft, cake-like texture with crisp edges during baking.
Step 4: Evenly distribute the sliced bananas over the batter. They will sink slightly as the cobbler bakes, forming sweet pockets of banana.
Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the bananas and batter. Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top if using.
Step 6: Bake for 35–45 minutes, until the cobbler is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean with moist crumbs.
Step 7: Let the cobbler cool for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Swap walnuts or pecans for your favorite nuts, or omit them for a nut-free version.
Add a handful of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Serve topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and use a plant-based butter alternative.

Storage

Store leftover cobbler in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving to enjoy its warm, comforting texture.

How to Serve

A close-up of a slice of banana dessert on a white plate, showing four layers: the bottom layer is a golden crumb crust with a rough texture, above it is a thick, shiny light yellow banana filling dripping slightly on the side, then a crunchy golden brown crumb topping with irregular clusters, and on top there are five round slices of fresh banana placed in a line, followed by a dollop of soft, white whipped cream sitting in the center. The plate is on a white marbled surface with a yellow banana blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cobbler gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures the same. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder for best results.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the cobbler a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking, then proceed with the recipe as directed.