Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I’ve always loved the combination of bananas and yogurt, and these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares take it to a whole new level. The creamy yogurt melds beautifully with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, while the oats provide a delightful texture. This recipe is not only simple to make but also wholesome, making it a perfect snack or breakfast option. Plus, they’re easy to grab on the go! Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:52:10.427Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how satisfying and nutritious it turned out to be. I tried various combinations before settling on the perfect balance of oats and yogurt that created the moist and chewy base. The inclusion of bananas not only sweetens the squares naturally but also contributes to the overall texture.

One key tip I learned while making these squares is to use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. They not only mash better but also integrate seamlessly into the batter, making every bite wonderfully flavorful. It’s a delicious way to use up those bananas before they go bad!

        Why You Will Love These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
        Nutritious and packed with fiber
Perfectly sweetened with ripe bananas
Great for meal prep or on-the-go snacks

      

Unlocking the Flavor of Bananas

Using ripe bananas is essential for this recipe, as their natural sweetness and creamy texture greatly enhance the overall taste of the squares. The ideal bananas are those with plenty of brown spots—this signals they are ripe enough to mash smoothly. Overripe bananas not only contribute sweetness but also ensure a moist final product. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have ripe bananas, you can speed up the process by baking them at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until blackened.

While most recipes use sugar for sweetness, incorporating honey or maple syrup maintains a softer texture and a more complex flavor profile. If you're looking for a refined sugar-free option, try using mashed dates as a sweetener. Just blend them with a bit of water until smooth before mixing into your wet ingredients. This swap will add additional nutrients, making your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares even healthier.

The Role of Oats in Texture

The rolled oats not only provide nutrition and fiber but also contribute a delightful chewiness to the squares. If you’re gluten-sensitive, ensure you choose gluten-free oats to avoid any cross-contamination. Additionally, for a more substantial texture, you can pulse the oats lightly in a blender before adding them to the mixture; this will create a finer consistency that blends seamlessly with the yogurt and bananas.

Letting the mixture rest for a few minutes before baking allows the oats to absorb the surrounding moisture, ensuring that the final squares are neither crumbly nor too dense. This resting period enhances the texture and ensures all ingredients meld beautifully. If you prefer a softer, cake-like texture, consider using quick oats instead of rolled oats as they absorb liquid more quickly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry Mixes

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the Squares

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the mixture. You can also swap the yogurt for a dairy-free version if desired.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are great for meal prep! Once cooled, store them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They’ll last for about three months. Just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a ready-to-go nutritious snack.

If you find yourself with leftover squares, consider crumbling them over yogurt or serving them alongside fresh fruit for a satisfying breakfast or snack. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of nuts can elevate their flavors even further.

Creative Variations to Try

To switch things up, add in some mix-ins such as chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Walnuts or pecans offer a lovely crunch, while shredded coconut can add a tropical flair. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for an extra depth of flavor that complements the banana and oats beautifully.

For a chocolate lover's twist, incorporate cocoa powder into the dry ingredient mix or fold in some mini chocolate chips before baking. This adds a delicious, decadent touch and makes the squares irresistible. You could even use flavored yogurt, such as vanilla or coconut, for an added surprise!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?

Yes, you can substitute with applesauce or mashed pumpkin for a different flavor.

→ How long will these squares last?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly before freezing.

→ What can I serve with these squares?

These squares pair perfectly with a dollop of yogurt or fresh fruit on the side.