Ingredients for Banana Foster Cobbler
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup dark rum (optional for a traditional Bananas Foster flavor)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- Pinch of salt
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet – for making the caramelized banana filling.
- Mixing bowl – to prepare the batter for the cobbler.
- Whisk – to combine dry ingredients for the topping.
- 9×9-inch baking dish – for baking the cobbler.
- Spatula – for mixing and spreading ingredients.
How to Make Banana Foster Cobbler
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Make the Caramelized Bananas
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon, cooking until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes bubbly and smooth. Add the sliced bananas and vanilla extract, tossing gently to coat the bananas in the caramel sauce. If you’re using rum, carefully pour it into the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to burn off. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the milk, whisking until a smooth batter forms.
Step 4: Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the banana-caramel mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Pour the cobbler batter evenly over the bananas. Don’t worry if it doesn’t fully cover the bananas—the batter will spread as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Cobbler
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Once baked, allow the cobbler to cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Variations
- Try different fruits: While bananas are the star here, you can easily mix in other fruits like apples, pears, or even peaches to create a mixed fruit cobbler.
- Go alcohol-free: If you prefer not to use rum, simply omit it from the recipe. You can substitute with a tablespoon of rum extract for a similar flavor.
- Make it extra crispy: For a crunchier topping, sprinkle a little turbinado sugar (or raw sugar) over the batter before baking.
- Add nuts: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of added texture and nuttiness.
How to Store Leftovers
Storing Leftovers:
If you have leftovers (although they might disappear quickly!), allow the cobbler to cool completely before covering the dish with foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For a larger portion, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Pairing Suggestions
- Vanilla ice cream: The creamy cold ice cream melting into the warm cobbler is a match made in heaven.
- Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream can add lightness to this rich dessert.
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee, especially with a splash of cream, pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cobbler.
- Spiced rum cocktail: If you’re feeling fancy, pair this dessert with a spiced rum cocktail to enhance the flavor of the bananas.