Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 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 vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I’m excited to share my Banana Oat Yogurt Squares recipe! These scrumptious squares combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of oats and creamy yogurt. I love how simple yet satisfying they are, making them perfect for a breakfast on-the-go or a nutritious snack. Each bite is packed with flavor and has a subtle chewiness that I find irresistible. Plus, they're very easy to make and require only a handful of ingredients that you probably already have at home.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:37:28.699Z

While experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the perfect way to use up my overripe bananas and leftover oats. Combining them with yogurt not only added moisture but also a lovely tang. I decided to bake them into squares, and what came out was a delicious treat that my whole family enjoys! The vibrant flavor of bananas paired with the heartiness of oats made these squares a hit during our movie night.

One major tip I learned from this experience is to let the squares cool completely before slicing. This allows them to firm up, making them easier to cut and enhancing their chewy texture. Trust me, waiting a little longer is worth it for these delightful squares!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Natural sweetness from ripe bananas
Healthful oats provide lasting energy
Deliciously versatile for breakfast or snacks

      

The Role of Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star ingredient in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, providing not only natural sweetness but also moisture. When you mash them, the bananas create a creamy texture that harmonizes beautifully with the yogurt and oats. It’s best to use bananas that are heavily speckled or even slightly overripe, as this ensures maximum sweetness and flavor enhancement in the final product.

Another benefit of the bananas is their binding properties. Alongside the yogurt, they help hold the squares together, resulting in a chewiness that’s both satisfying and filling. If you prefer a more intense banana flavor, consider adding an extra mashed banana, but be aware that this may alter the texture slightly.

Oats and Their Benefits

Using rolled oats in this recipe enriches the squares with fiber and sustenance, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or a mid-day snack. Rolled oats absorb moisture well while baking, which contributes to the square's delightful chewy texture. If you're in need of a gluten-free option, be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

In terms of nutrition, oats provide slow-releasing energy that keeps you feeling satisfied for longer. They also add a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the bananas perfectly. If you want a variation in texture, try using quick oats for a softer texture or steel-cut oats for a heartier bite, keeping in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time.

Tips for Customization

Customization is key to making these squares your own. You can swap out the honey for maple syrup for a vegan option, or add different mix-ins such as chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to enhance flavor and texture. For those who enjoy a bit of diversity, consider fold-in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which can elevate the flavor profile.

If you plan to enjoy the squares over several days, consider freezing them. After they’ve cooled completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply take one out and let it thaw at room temperature, or microwave it for a few seconds for a warm treat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Ingredients

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

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this into the banana mixture until well combined. If desired, add nuts or chocolate chips.

Bake the Squares

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan completely before slicing them into squares. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

Try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor. You can also substitute flavored yogurt to experiment with different taste profiles!

Baking Tips

When pouring the mixture into the baking dish, use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. This will ensure that the squares bake uniformly, giving you that golden edge and allowing the center to cook properly. Keep an eye on them as they approach the 25-minute mark; if they start to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

After baking, testing with a toothpick is crucial. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they're ready. If it comes out wet, give them a few more minutes, but avoid overbaking to keep that chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These squares can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For a delightful treat, serve them with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey on top. You can also pair them with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast; berries or sliced apples work brilliantly for a burst of flavor.

If you're serving them at a gathering or as a part of a breakfast spread, cut them into smaller squares or bars for easy handling. Consider serving a variety of toppings like nut butter, coconut flakes, or Greek yogurt for people to customize their own squares!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work well! Just let them thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.

→ How should I store the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I add other fruits to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can fold in blueberries, chopped apples, or any of your favorite fruits.

→ Is it possible to make these squares vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based yogurt and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave.