Step 1 – Heat the oven and prepare the dish
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so the cobbler does not stick while it bakes.

Step 2 – Make the banana filling
Place the sliced bananas in a large mixing bowl. Add the sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir carefully so the banana slices stay mostly intact while getting coated in the sweet, buttery mixture. Set the bowl aside for a few minutes so the sugar begins to melt into the fruit.

Step 3 – Mix the cobbler batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, milk, sugar, and nutmeg if you are using it. Stir only until the mixture comes together. A few small lumps are fine, and you should not overmix the batter.

Step 4 – Layer the cobbler
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Do not stir or blend the layers once the batter is in the dish. Spoon the banana mixture over the top in an even layer, again without mixing. As the cobbler bakes, the batter will rise around the bananas and create that classic texture everyone loves.

Step 5 – Bake until set and golden
Place the dish on the center rack of the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The top should turn a rich golden brown, and the edges should bubble. The center should feel set when lightly touched, but still soft and gooey underneath.

Step 6 – Rest and serve
Remove the cobbler from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. That short rest helps the filling settle just enough while keeping the dessert warm and spoonable. Serve it plain or top it with ice cream, whipped cream, nuts, or caramel drizzle.