Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a quick and healthy snack! The combination of creamy yogurt and ripe bananas creates a deliciously moist base, while oats add a delightful texture and wholesomeness. In just about 30 minutes, I can whip up a batch that not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also packs in essential nutrients. Perfect for breakfast on the go or a light dessert, these squares are a family favorite that I know you'll enjoy as much as I do.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:28:09.528Z

When I first started making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to prepare! The key is to ensure your bananas are perfectly ripe, as this adds natural sweetness and moisture. I find that mashing them well helps to integrate them thoroughly into the yogurt and oats, creating a rich, flavor-packed square.

One of my favorite tips is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This not only helps them hold together better but also enhances the flavors as they settle. I often experiment with mix-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, to keep things interesting!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas for a guilt-free treat
Packed with fiber from oats, keeping you full and satisfied
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings or snacks

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is undoubtedly the ripe bananas. Using a banana that is well overripe will yield a sweeter flavor and an ideal consistency. Make sure to mash them until smooth, as larger lumps can affect the square's final texture. The combination of mashed bananas with yogurt adds both moisture and a natural sweetness that balances well with the oats and honey, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Oats are another key player in this recipe. They not only contribute to the squares' sturdy structure but also provide a significant amount of fiber. Opt for rolled oats for the best texture—steel-cut or instant oats won’t work the same way, as they lack the soft chewiness that complements the pudding-like softness of the yogurt and banana mixture. This balance makes each square satisfying without being overly dense.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

Baking at the correct temperature is crucial; preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) ensures that the squares cook evenly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; the top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the insides finish cooking.

Once out of the oven, allowing the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes helps them to set up properly. Moving them to a wire rack too soon can cause them to crumble or fall apart. Cooling completely not only enhances their texture but also makes them easier to cut into perfect squares, resulting in neater portions for serving or storage.

Ingredients

For the Squares

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches) with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until well blended. Then, add the rolled oats, baking powder, and pinch of salt. Mix until combined.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in extras like nuts, dark chocolate chips, or dried fruits to customize your squares. They can be stored in an airtight container for a week in the fridge or frozen for longer storage.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be made ahead of time and stored for up to one week in the refrigerator. To keep them fresh, be sure to place them in an airtight container. If you want to enjoy these squares later, they also freeze well. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before sealing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

For busy mornings, try cutting a batch into individual portions. I like to wrap each square in parchment paper to grab-and-go easily. These squares are perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or as a quick snack between meals. Their portable nature makes them a versatile option for any part of the day.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares with various add-ins. A handful of chopped nuts or seeds can add a delightful crunch and additional nutritional benefits. I also recommend trying a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor. If you want more sweetness, consider folding in mini chocolate chips or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries; these can provide a wonderful contrast to the moist base.

For a spiced version, consider adding pumpkin spice or nutmeg to your dry ingredients along with the baking powder. This adds a seasonal touch that can be enjoyed year-round. You can even experiment with different types of yogurt, such as Greek yogurt for a creamier texture or a non-dairy alternative to suit various dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?

Yes, Greek yogurt will add a creamier texture and extra protein to the squares!

→ How can I make these squares vegan?

You can substitute the yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I add spices to the recipe?

Absolutely! A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg would complement the bananas beautifully.

→ How do I know when the squares are done baking?

The edges should be lightly browned and a toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.