Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup oats; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Salt, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares come together effortlessly, highlighting the natural sweetness of ripe bananas paired with wholesome oats. The combination yields a delightful snack or breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome. In about 30 minutes, I can create these delicious squares, perfect for meal prepping or sharing with friends. Whether topped with yogurt and fruit or enjoyed plain, these squares are a treat that keeps me coming back for more, and they make my mornings just a little bit brighter.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:07:20.824Z

When I first made these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was surprised at just how easy they were. The magic lies in using ripe bananas, which not only provide sweetness but also keep the squares moist. I've found that the baking time is crucial; just 20 minutes in the oven ensures they're perfectly set but still soft enough to melt in your mouth.

One tip I swear by is to let the squares cool completely before slicing them. This helps maintain their shape and makes for a satisfying bite. I love keeping a batch of these on hand for a quick breakfast or a snack during the day.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients that nourish your body
Easy to prepare and make ahead for busy mornings
Naturally sweetened with banana for guilt-free indulgence

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Ripe bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also serve as a binding agent, helping to hold the squares together. Using plain yogurt adds creaminess and moisture, making the final product tender. Meanwhile, oats contribute to the hearty texture and nutritional benefits, delivering fiber that keeps you feeling full longer.

The sweetener of your choice—honey or maple syrup—enhances the bananas' natural flavors. If you prefer a vegan version, maple syrup is an excellent substitute that blends seamlessly. Additionally, the combination of cinnamon and vanilla extract adds aromatic notes that elevate the overall taste. This thoughtful blend of ingredients ensures that each bite is both satisfying and delicious.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

For optimal results, make sure to mash the bananas thoroughly until smooth; this will help distribute their sweetness evenly throughout the mixture. When mixing, aim for a well-combined texture, but avoid overmixing, which could lead to denser squares. A rubber spatula works well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated without losing airiness from the yogurt.

Monitoring the baking time is essential. Depending on your oven, the baking process might take anywhere from 18 to 25 minutes. Look for a golden-brown top and edges that seem firm to the touch. If you find that the center is still jiggly after 20 minutes, give it a few additional minutes but keep a watchful eye to prevent overbaking, which can dry out the squares.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious squares:

For the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup oats
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Salt, to taste

These ingredients create a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Mixture

In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Add oats, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), baking powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

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

Bake

Bake for 20 minutes or until the mixture is set and golden brown on top.

Cool and Slice

Let the squares cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares.

Your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter before baking. You can also substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be enjoyed in various ways. For a balanced breakfast, serve them alongside a dollop of yogurt and fresh berries for added texture and flavor. You can also top them with nut butter or a drizzle of honey for an indulgent twist. Feel free to slice them smaller for bite-sized snacks that are perfect for on-the-go or kids’ lunchboxes.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding ingredients like chopped nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate chips to the batter before baking. These modifications not only enhance the flavor but also elevate the nutritional profile, making the squares even more satisfying.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To store your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes them convenient for meal prep and ensures they retain their freshness. Just allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

If you're looking to extend their shelf life, these squares freeze beautifully. Slice them into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-friendly container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or warm them gently in the microwave for a quick snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture might be softer. Rolled oats give a nice chewy texture.

→ How should I store the squares?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them individually and store in an airtight bag in the freezer.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can use applesauce or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.