Southern Banana Cobbler (Air Fryer Recipe)

 Introduction:

Southern Banana Cobbler is a decadent, comforting dessert that combines the ripe sweetness of bananas with a golden, buttery biscuit topping. Traditionally baked in the oven, this air fryer version gives you all the old-fashioned flavor in less time and with a perfectly crisp top. Think banana bread meets cobbler—gooey, caramelized, and full of soul.

Perfect for brunch or dessert, especially when topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

For the Banana Filling:

3 ripe bananas (sliced)

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For the Cobbler Topping:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk)

2 tablespoons melted butter

Optional: 1–2 teaspoons sugar + cinnamon for sprinkling on top

Air Fryer Timing & Temp:

Temp: 330°F (165°C)

Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

Instructions:

Preheat Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 330°F (165°C) for about 3–5 minutes.

Prepare the Banana Filling:

In a small skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Add sliced bananas, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.

Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently, until bananas are softened and coated in a syrupy glaze.

Stir in vanilla and remove from heat.

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Pour the banana mixture into an air fryer-safe baking dish or ramekin (about 6 inches wide or use 2–3 smaller ramekins).

Make the Cobbler Topping:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Add milk and melted butter, stirring just until combined.

Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the bananas — it doesn’t have to cover them fully (rustic is good!).

Top It Off (Optional):

Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top for extra crunch and color.

Air Fry the Cobbler:

Place the dish in the preheated air fryer.

Air fry at 330°F for 12–15 minutes, or until:

The topping is puffed up and golden

The filling is bubbling around the edges

Tip: Check at the 10-minute mark to prevent over-browning. You can loosely cover the top with foil if it browns too fast.

Cool Slightly & Serve:

Let cool for 5 minutes to set.

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.

Tips & Variations:

Add crunch: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts with the banana filling.

Extra banana flavor: Use overripe bananas and a touch of banana extract.

Boozy twist: Add a splash of dark rum or bourbon to the banana filling.