Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I’ve recently fallen in love with these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also pack a nutritious punch with wholesome ingredients. The combination of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and hearty oats creates a deliciously satisfying snack that keeps me full and energized throughout the day. Whether I enjoy them for breakfast or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, they have quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep, making it convenient to grab a healthy option on busy days!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:13:25.505Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how simple it was to put together. The key is using ripe bananas, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture that keep the squares tender. I also love how versatile this recipe is; I’ve swapped in different nuts and dried fruits based on what I had on hand, and it’s always turned out wonderfully.

One tip I can share is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This ensures they hold their shape nicely, and you’ll have perfectly portioned pieces that are great for sharing or storing. These squares have become a favorite among family and friends!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful thanks to ripe bananas
Packed with wholesome ingredients for a healthy snack
Perfect for meal prep or on-the-go breakfasts

      

The Importance of Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is crucial for this recipe as they add natural sweetness and moisture. The bananas should be heavily speckled or even mostly brown for the best flavor. If you're in a pinch with less ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or another banana. This will help them soften and enhance their sweetness, making for a richer base in your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares.

Ripe bananas not only contribute to the overall flavor but also act as a binding agent in the mixture. They help hold the squares together without the need for excessive added fats, which keeps the recipe healthier. When mashing the bananas, ensure there are no large chunks remaining, as this will lead to a more uniform texture throughout the squares.

Oats: The Heart of the Squares

The type of oats you choose can affect the texture of your squares. Rolled oats are preferred in this recipe because they absorb liquid well while providing a chewy texture. If you only have quick oats on hand, you can use those, but be aware that they will result in a softer and less textured final product. Always measure the oats accurately, as too much can lead to dry squares that crumble rather than slice smoothly.

For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed meal. These can be mixed in with the oats, further enhancing the fiber content without altering the flavor significantly. Additionally, feel free to experiment with gluten-free oats if you need a gluten-free option, making sure they are certified gluten-free.

Serving and Storing the Squares

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For breakfast, they can be served warm with a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit. Alternatively, they make a great snack paired with nut butter for that extra protein kick. You can also cut them into smaller portions for easy lunchbox treats or quick snacks on-the-go. The spice of cinnamon and the sweetness of honey or maple syrup create a lovely flavor profile that can be enhanced with toppings.

When it comes to storage, these squares can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week. To freeze, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy a square from the freezer, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight or pop it in the microwave for about 20 seconds for a warm, comforting snack.

Ingredients

Start by gathering the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/2 cup dried fruit (optional)

Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl, and you're ready to bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined. If using, fold in chopped nuts and dried fruit.

Pour into Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack, then cut into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Pro Tips

Try adding chocolate chips or nut butter for an extra special treat. You can also adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your taste preferences.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

Baking time is key to achieving the ideal texture. Check the squares at the 20-minute mark; they should begin to firm up and smell wonderful. If they are still wet and a toothpick doesn’t come out clean, continue baking for another 5 minutes, watching closely to ensure they don’t overbake and dry out. The edges should be golden brown when you know they are finished.

To ensure even baking, make sure your oven is preheated before placing the squares inside. Using an oven thermometer can help verify the accurate temperature, as inconsistent oven temperatures can lead to uneven cooking. For added moisture, you can also place a small oven-safe dish of water in the oven to create steam, which can help keep the squares tender.

Flavor Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the flavor of your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares according to your preferences. For instance, adding cocoa powder or chocolate chips can provide a delightful twist and make them more dessert-like. Consider incorporating spices like nutmeg or ginger for an added warmth, especially during the cooler months.

You can also experiment with different fruits, like diced apples, peaches, or berries, to diversify the flavor profile. Just make sure that the total quantity of fruit remains similar so that the balance of wet and dry ingredients stays intact.

Nutritional Benefits

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are not just delicious but also incredibly nutritious. The oats offer a significant source of fiber, which can help regulate digestion and promote a feeling of fullness. Paired with the protein from yogurt, these squares make a balanced snack that keeps energy levels steady.

Moreover, the natural sweetness from bananas reduces the need for added sugars, allowing you to enjoy a treat that's good for your body. If you opt for a non-dairy yogurt, you can easily make this a vegan recipe, maintaining the health benefits while appealing to those with dietary restrictions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?

Yes! You can substitute bananas with applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes for similar moisture and texture.

→ How do I store these squares?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage!

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup as a sweetener.

→ What type of oats should I use?

Rolled oats or quick oats work best for this recipe. Avoid using steel-cut oats, as they require longer cooking times.