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 rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy Creations Studio

I’ve recently fallen in love with my Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of bananas. These squares are perfect for breakfast or as a guilt-free snack, and they are so simple to prepare! I always recommend using ripe bananas for a boost in flavor and sweetness. The creaminess of yogurt adds a nice texture, making them irresistibly delicious. With these squares in my fridge, I feel motivated to start my day on a healthy note!

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:13:13.496Z

When I first attempted these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy and rewarding the process was. The aroma of baking bananas fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. I used plain yogurt for a subtle tang and to keep the squares moist. Don’t skip the oats; they provide texture and a wholesome feel that elevates the dish.

After experimenting with the baking time, I found that 25 minutes yielded a perfectly soft but set consistency. If you prefer a firmer square, leave them in an extra couple of minutes. I often enjoy these squares chilled from the fridge, which enhances their flavor. They’re great for busy mornings or healthy snacking!

Why You Will Love These Squares
Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas for a delicious flavor boost
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack
Easy to make with just a few wholesome ingredients

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is undoubtedly the ripe bananas. When choosing bananas, opt for those with plenty of brown spots, as this indicates peak ripeness. Ripe bananas not only enhance the sweetness but also contribute to the moisture content of the squares, resulting in a soft, chewy texture. Substituting bananas can be tricky, but if you're in a pinch, unsweetened applesauce can mimic the moisture and bind the ingredients together, though the flavor will differ.

Rolled oats play a crucial role in giving these squares their hearty texture. Unlike instant oats, rolled oats hold their shape during baking, adding a satisfying chewiness. If you need a gluten-free option, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, feel free to mix types of oats; using steel-cut oats can add an interesting texture, but they will require a longer baking time to soften properly.

Perfecting the Baking Process

When mixing your wet ingredients, aim for a smooth consistency with no lumps from the bananas. This ensures a uniform texture throughout the squares. If you prefer a chunkier bite, reserve a few banana pieces to fold in last. For the best mixing technique, using a fork or potato masher for the bananas tends to create the smoothest blend. After you've combined everything, the mixture should have a thick, batter-like consistency before transferring it to the baking pan.

Baking is a crucial part of achieving that golden-brown finish. Keep an eye on the squares in their final minutes; they should be golden around the edges and firm to the touch in the center. If you notice the top browning too quickly, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. The squares will continue to set as they cool, so allow them to sit in the pan for a bit after coming out of the oven to achieve the perfect texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Make sure all the ingredients are ready for the preparation process!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.

Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown and set.

Cool and Cut

Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares fresh or chilled!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or seeds of your choice into the batter before baking!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a fantastic make-ahead breakfast option. To maintain their freshness, you can also individually wrap them and freeze for up to three months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

For those who enjoy meal prepping, consider doubling the recipe. This will yield a larger batch that’s perfect to have on hand for busy mornings or impromptu snacking. Just remember to adjust your baking time if you choose to bake in a larger pan; keep a close watch on doneness around the 25-minute mark, checking with a toothpick for a clean pull out.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These squares are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy them plain, but topping them with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh fruit or nuts brings additional flavor and texture. Drizzling with a bit of honey or a spread of nut butter can also elevate the experience for those who love a bit of indulgence. For a fun twist, consider adding mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added sweetness and crunch.

If you're a fan of spices, feel free to experiment! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of pumpkin spice can give your squares a seasonal twist. You may also swap out some of the oats for ground flaxseed or chia seeds to increase the nutritional value. Just remember to keep the ratios in balance, as too much of these seeds may alter the texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use any type of yogurt, including dairy-free options!

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well; just ensure you wrap them tightly before freezing.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for a delightful twist!