Delightful Bananas Foster Cobbler is a mouthwatering dessert that combines the classic flavors of Bananas Foster with the comforting appeal of a cobbler. This dessert is perfect for those who love the combination of sweet bananas, rich cream cheese, and crunchy walnuts, all brought together in a buttery, cinnamon-infused batter. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering or as a special treat for your family. With its warm, gooey interior and golden, crispy top, this cobbler is a delightful way to enjoy ripe bananas in a creative and delicious way.
Ingredients:
- Base:
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup white sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Filling:
- 4 bananas, very ripe, sliced
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring it coats the entire base evenly. This layer of butter will help create a rich and flavorful crust for the cobbler.
- Make the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of milk, 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of white sugar, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth. This batter will form the base and topping of the cobbler.
- Carefully pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir or mix the butter and batter together; the batter will naturally rise and form a crust as it bakes.
- Add the Filling:
- Evenly distribute the sliced bananas and chopped walnuts over the batter in the baking dish. The bananas will provide a sweet, fruity flavor, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese by microwaving it for about 20-30 seconds until warm and easily stirrable.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until smooth and well combined. This mixture will add a rich, creamy element to the cobbler.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the batter in small pockets. These pockets of cream cheese will create bursts of creamy sweetness throughout the cobbler.
- Bake the Cobbler:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cobbler is set. The edges should be slightly crispy, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This will help the flavors to meld and make it easier to cut into portions.
- Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Serving:
This Delightful Bananas Foster Cobbler is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be served at room temperature. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Dessert: Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic combination.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day.
Notes:
- Nut Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute the walnuts with pecans, almonds, or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.
- Ripe Bananas: Using very ripe bananas will enhance the sweetness and flavor of the cobbler.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe? A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it is a 1:1 substitute to ensure the texture remains similar.
Q: What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish? A: You can use a different size baking dish, but the baking time may vary. Keep an eye on the cobbler and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.
Q: Can I add other fruits to this cobbler? A: Absolutely! You can add other fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, or apples along with the bananas for a mixed fruit cobbler.
Q: How do I know when the cobbler is done? A: The cobbler is done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the center should be set.
Q: Can I make this cobbler ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cobbler ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Q: What type of cream cheese should I use? A: Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. However, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese if you prefer.
Enjoy your Delightful Bananas Foster Cobbler, a sweet and satisfying dessert that combines the best of bananas, cream cheese, and a buttery, cinnamon-infused crust!