Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup yogurt (plain or flavored); 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Balanced Kitchen

I love these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares because they are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brighten my mornings. They are moist, nutritious, and incredibly easy to whip up with just a few ingredients. Each square is packed with wholesome oats and ripe bananas, mingling with creamy yogurt to create a satisfying snack or breakfast option. I often make a batch at the start of the week, and they keep well in the fridge, making it simple to grab a healthy treat on busy days.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:10:09.403Z

Making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares was a delightful adventure in my kitchen. I was looking for a simple, healthy snack that my family would love, and these squares fit the bill perfectly. The combination of mashed bananas and yogurt not only adds moisture but also a subtle sweetness that keeps you wanting more.

I discovered that using rolled oats gives each square a hearty texture, while baking them at a moderate temperature allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I recommend using overripe bananas for an extra burst of natural sweetness and flavor.

Why You'll Love These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Wholesome oats provide a hearty texture for every bite.
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas keeps them guilt-free.
Perfectly moist and satisfying, making them an ideal on-the-go snack.

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares plays a crucial role in achieving the right balance of flavor and texture. The ripe bananas act as a natural sweetener and binding agent, providing moisture and a subtle, fruity flavor. Using plain yogurt not only adds creaminess but also contributes to the nutritional value, offering probiotics that are beneficial for gut health. If you're looking for a non-dairy option, consider using coconut or almond yogurt, which can flavor the squares in a unique way.

Rolled oats are the backbone of this recipe, lending a heartiness that complements the soft bananas. They also provide soluble fiber, which is important for digestion. For those without rolled oats on hand, quick oats can be a substitute, but keep in mind that they may yield a softer square. I usually avoid steel-cut oats for this recipe, as their coarser texture doesn’t blend as well into the batter.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking these squares at 350°F (175°C) is key to achieving a golden exterior while ensuring the inside remains tender and moist. It’s important to check them at the 20-minute mark; if the edges are browning but the center is still soft, consider shielding the top with foil to prevent over-baking while allowing the centers to firm up. I find that letting them cool in the pan for just 10 minutes helps them set up perfectly, but be sure to transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, as this prevents a soggy bottom.

If you notice that your squares are coming out too dry or crumbly, this may indicate over-baking. Keep an eye on the baking time the next time you prepare them. The toothpick test is your best friend; when it comes out clean without any wet batter clinging to it, they’re done. Allowing them to cool fully before cutting ensures cleaner edges, so patience will reward you with a more appealing presentation.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup yogurt (plain or flavored)
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, you are ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until well blended. Then add in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, mixing until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Once baked, allow the squares to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack, then cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a snack or breakfast option!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. You can also substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative to cater to dietary preferences.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are ideal for meal prep, as they store wonderfully in the fridge for up to a week. Simply place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them. Just wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them a convenient snack option for busy days.

To reheat frozen squares, I recommend letting them thaw in the fridge overnight, then warming them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute until heated through. This method helps retain their moist texture, so you won’t end up with a dry snack. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold, making them a versatile addition to your breakfast or snack repertoire.

Customizing Your Squares

Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins to customize these squares to your taste. For an extra burst of flavor, consider folding in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries right before baking. These additions not only enhance the taste but also contribute varying textures that keep each bite interesting.

If you're trying to reduce sugar, you can decrease the amount of honey or maple syrup; the natural sweetness from the bananas often suffices. Additionally, using unsweetened yogurt can drastically cut the sugar content while still holding up well in the recipe. For a touch of luxury, a swirl of peanut or almond butter on top before baking creates an irresistible flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas, but make sure to drain any excess moisture before mashing.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.