Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 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 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a healthy snack or breakfast alternative. The blend of oats, banana, and yogurt results in a moist and satisfying treat that keeps me full throughout the morning. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also provides the perfect balance of nutrients, making it a wholesome choice. I enjoy experimenting with different fruits and nuts, but the classic banana version is always a favorite in our home. It's a delightful way to start the day or to fuel an afternoon pick-me-up!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:52:09.885Z

When I first tried making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding the recipe was. Combining mashed bananas with oats and yogurt results in a perfect texture that is both chewy and soft. One key tip I learned is to let the batter sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the oats to absorb the moisture, giving you squares that are wonderfully moist and tender.

After sharing these delicious squares with friends and family, I received countless compliments! The best part is knowing that they're nutritious, so I don’t feel guilty indulging. Toss in some walnuts or chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous; they only elevate the flavor. I guarantee you’ll want to make them again and again!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Healthy ingredients that satisfy your sweet tooth
Versatile recipe that allows for endless variations
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The bananas in this recipe provide natural sweetness and moisture, which makes the squares soft and appealing. When choosing bananas, aim for ones that are fully ripe; they should be speckled with brown spots. These spots indicate that the sugars within the bananas have developed, enhancing the flavor and sweetness of the final product. You can also freeze overripe bananas if you can’t use them right away; they work perfectly for baking, and it won’t affect the texture of your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares.

Yogurt adds a creamy texture while also contributing to the protein content, making these squares a more balanced option. Opting for plain yogurt allows you to control the sweetness. If you're vegan or dairy-free, you can substitute with plant-based yogurt alternatives, such as almond or coconut yogurt, ensuring that you maintain a similar consistency. Just make sure it's unsweetened to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.

Helpful Baking Tips

When mixing the ingredients, take care not to overmix after adding the dry components, as this can lead to a denser texture. Just stir until everything is combined; the batter should be somewhat thick but still spreadable. Ensuring that your baking dish is lined with parchment paper will not only prevent sticking but also make it easier to lift out the squares later. I prefer using a metal baking dish for even heat distribution, but glass works too—just keep an eye on the baking time as it might differ slightly.

To check for doneness, look for a golden brown color on the edges, and insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center continues to bake. This way, you’ll avoid the frustration of a perfectly cooked exterior and an underbaked center.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Main Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

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 square baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and optional walnuts or chocolate chips until just combined.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the dish for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cut into squares and serve.

These squares can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in other fruits like blueberries or apples. You can also substitute yogurt with a dairy-free alternative to fit your dietary preferences.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness to about a week. If you want to batch cook, feel free to double the recipe and freeze half. Cut the cooled squares into portions and wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag; they should last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy a square from the freezer, simply let it thaw at room temperature or warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This reheating will make the squares soft and gooey, as if they just came out of the oven, allowing you to enjoy that fresh-baked flavor any time.

Flavor Variations

One of the joys of Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is how easily they can be adapted to suit different taste preferences. For a tropical twist, try adding 1/2 cup of shredded coconut or diced pineapple. Incorporating spices like nutmeg or ginger powder can also bring a warming flavor profile, especially in cooler months. If you love a bit of crunch, mix in some chopped almonds or pecans along with the walnuts for added texture.

You can also experiment with the sweetener choice. Instead of honey or maple syrup, consider using agave nectar for a milder sweetness or coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor. Just remember to adjust the amounts to your liking since these sweeteners vary in sweetness. This flexibility allows you to create different versions of this recipe without compromising on taste or texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure to let them thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How can I make these squares gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oats to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I replace the honey with something else?

Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives.

→ How do I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.