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 plain yogurt; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup dried fruits (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a healthy snack option that's both delicious and satisfying. The flavor is just right, with the sweetness of ripe bananas complemented by creamy yogurt and the heartiness of oats. They are simple to prepare and perfect for on-the-go, whether for breakfast or an afternoon treat. I often whip up a batch and store them in the fridge for a quick, nutritious bite anytime I need a boost!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:58:12.571Z

When I first attempted these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was surprised by how easy they were to make. I simply mashed ripe bananas, mixed them with yogurt and oats, and then baked until golden. The result was a wonderfully moist treat that held together beautifully. It’s a game changer for healthy snacking!

One crucial tip I discovered is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This prevents them from falling apart and gives them a perfect texture. They also taste even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together nicely.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The wholesome combination of oats and bananas for sustained energy.
A creamy texture from the yogurt that adds a delightful tang.
Versatile snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

      

The Role of Oats and Bananas

In this recipe, rolled oats serve as the foundation, providing a hearty texture and a significant amount of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Additionally, oats are a great source of slow-digesting carbohydrates, giving you sustained energy throughout the day. When they bake, they create a delightful chewiness, making every bite satisfying.

Ripe bananas are not just a natural sweetener, but they also add moisture and a distinct richness to the squares. Their natural sugars caramelize during the baking process, enhancing the overall flavor. If you have very ripe bananas, don’t hesitate to use them; they’ll provide a deeper sweetness and a more pronounced banana flavor.

Texture and Flavor Balance

The creamy yogurt in this recipe not only contributes to the texture but also balances the sweetness of the bananas. Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker consistency and more protein, while regular plain yogurt works well too. This creamy goodness gives the squares a tempting gooeyness that contrasts beautifully with the chewiness of the oats.

Cinnamon is a key ingredient that adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile. It not only enhances the taste but also brings out the natural sweetness of the bananas and honey or maple syrup. Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract for a different aromatic twist.

Ingredients

For the Squares

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/4 cup dried fruits (optional)

Mix the ingredients until well-combined before baking.

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, yogurt, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, honey, and optional nuts or dried fruits. Mix until everything is well combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious banana oat yogurt squares!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the nuts and dried fruits with your favorites or whatever you have on hand. You can also add chocolate chips for a sweeter treat!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares make for excellent meal prep. You can bake a batch on the weekend and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This makes them perfect for a quick breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack without the fuss of cooking daily.

If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Cut the squares and layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to enjoy them again, or simply pop them in the microwave for a quick warming.

Variations and Additions

Get creative with this base recipe! You can add a variety of mix-ins like chocolate chips, seeds, or spices. A couple of tablespoons of chia seeds or flaxseeds can provide extra nutritional boosts without overpowering the banana flavor. You could also substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds if you're looking for a nut-free version.

For a festive touch, consider adding cranberries or chopped apples, especially during the fall season. This not only diversifies the flavor but also keeps the squares exciting and fresh each time you make them. Just remember to adjust the sweetener slightly if your add-ins are overly sweet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt will add extra creaminess and protein.

→ How long do these squares stay fresh?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, they freeze well. Just wrap each square individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Yes, feel free to incorporate berries or even diced apples for added flavor!