Velvety caramelized bananas, warm cinnamon, and a buttery cobbler topping come together in this decadent Bananas Foster Cobbler—your new favorite comfort dessert.
There’s something about Bananas Foster Cobbler that just feels indulgent in the best way…
The first time I made this, it was a spontaneous twist on the classic Bananas Foster my dad used to flambé at the table during special dinners. That buttery, boozy caramel sauce and soft bananas always felt like magic—and I wanted that same feeling in a cozy, scoopable dessert.
This cobbler has all the bold, warm flavors of the iconic New Orleans treat, but it’s baked with a biscuit-like topping that soaks up the rum sauce and melts into the bananas. The result? Sticky-sweet, gooey comfort that’s perfect on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whether you’re making it for guests or just because it’s Tuesday, this recipe delivers big flavor with surprisingly little effort.
Key Ingredients
Bananas
Ripe, but not overly soft, bananas are the star of the show. They caramelize beautifully and bring natural sweetness and soft texture. Look for bananas with a few brown spots—they’re sweet but still hold their shape.
Dark Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds deep molasses richness to the sauce. Combined with butter and rum, it creates that signature caramelized flavor Bananas Foster is known for.
Unsalted Butter
Butter is essential for creating the rich, silky base of the sauce. It also contributes to the flavor and helps the cobbler topping brown beautifully.
Dark Rum
Just a splash adds warmth and depth. The alcohol cooks off in the oven, leaving behind the signature Bananas Foster taste. You can substitute with bourbon or omit if preferred.
Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg
These spices bring warmth and complexity to the banana filling and pair perfectly with the brown sugar caramel.
Vanilla Extract
A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the bananas.
Self-Rising Flour
The secret to an easy, fluffy cobbler topping. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own with flour, baking powder, and salt.
Milk or Buttermilk
Used to moisten the cobbler topping. Buttermilk adds a slight tang and richer flavor, but regular milk works fine too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
2. Make the Banana Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Cook until bubbly and thick, about 2 minutes. Stir in rum and cook 1 more minute, then fold in sliced bananas until just coated.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the banana mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the topping.
4. Make the Cobbler Topping
In a bowl, mix self-rising flour, sugar (optional), and milk or buttermilk until just combined. The batter will be thick but spoonable. Drop spoonfuls over the banana filling, then gently spread to cover most of the surface—leaving a few gaps is fine.
5. Bake Until Golden
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to set before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For extra flair, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top for a little crunch.
Pair with strong coffee, a dark rum cocktail, or even a bold chai latte for a balanced flavor experience.
Hosting a dinner party? Bake in individual ramekins for elegant single-serve portions.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
Cool leftovers completely, then store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or a 300°F oven until warmed through.
Freezing
Bananas don’t freeze well in cobbler form—they can become mushy and watery. If needed, freeze the unbaked filling and topping separately, then bake fresh when ready to serve.
Texture Tip:
For best texture, reheat in the oven to preserve the crispness of the topping.
Why This Cobbler is Special
Bananas Foster Cobbler isn’t just a twist on tradition—it’s the kind of dessert that feels indulgent but approachable, nostalgic but new. It’s warm, sticky, spiced, and full of personality.
Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, sharing it for Sunday supper, or baking it just because, this recipe is one you’ll come back to all year long.
Don’t forget to share your twist! Add chocolate chips, nuts, or use plant-based alternatives. I’d love to hear how you made it your own in the comments below.
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Bananas Foster Cobbler: A Gooey, Boozy, Banana-Caramel Dream in Every Bite
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Warm caramelized bananas, a hint of rum, and a fluffy cobbler topping come together in this cozy Southern-inspired dessert.
Ingredients
For the Banana Filling:
4 ripe bananas, sliced
½ cup unsalted butter
¾ cup dark brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
2 tbsp dark rum (or substitute with juice)
For the Cobbler Topping:
1 cup self-rising flour
½ cup sugar (optional, for sweeter topping)
¾ cup milk or buttermilk
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp melted butter (for drizzling, optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Make Banana Filling:
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Add rum and cook for 1 minute. Fold in bananas and coat them gently in the sauce.
Transfer to Dish:
Pour the banana mixture into the prepared dish and set aside.
Mix Cobbler Batter:
In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar (if using), milk, and salt until just combined. Drop spoonfuls over the banana mixture and spread gently.
Bake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling. Let cool 10–15 minutes before serving.
Serve:
Spoon into bowls and top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or toasted pecans.
Notes
Add a splash of bourbon instead of rum for a deeper flavor, or try adding chocolate chips or chopped walnuts before baking for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 servings
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 45g
Keywords: Bananas Foster Cobbler: A Gooey, Boozy, Banana-Caramel Dream in Every Bite
FAQ
Can I make this without rum?
Yes! Substitute with apple juice, orange juice, or a splash of water and extra vanilla. You’ll still get plenty of flavor.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend with added leavening to mimic self-rising flour.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes—prepare the filling and topping separately and store in the fridge up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
What’s the best banana ripeness?
Use ripe bananas that are yellow with a few brown specks. Avoid overly soft or mushy ones—they’ll break down too much during baking.