Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Optional: chocolate chips or nuts for topping

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I’ve always been a fan of snacks that are both healthy and satisfying, and these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares fit the bill perfectly! The combination of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and hearty oats creates a delicious treat that's great for breakfast or as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip these squares up in no time. They're not just tasty, but also packed with nutrients, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome snack!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:28:10.323Z

When I first decided to create a recipe around bananas and yogurt, I was surprised by how versatile these ingredients are. I experimented with textures and flavors, ultimately landing on this delightful square. I found that using ripe bananas adds both natural sweetness and moisture, which is essential for achieving that perfect chewy consistency.

I also discovered that letting the squares cool completely before cutting them ensures they hold their shape better, making them easier to serve. These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares quickly became a staple in my household, providing a nutritious snack the whole family enjoys!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        The natural sweetness from ripe bananas reduces the need for added sugars.
They are incredibly easy to make and require minimal preparation time.
Perfectly chewy with a hint of creaminess from the yogurt, making them a satisfying treat.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The primary components of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares play significant roles in the final texture and flavor. Ripe bananas are not just a natural sweetener; they also provide moisture and a soft texture. Using plain yogurt adds creaminess while contributing protein, making these squares satisfying without feeling heavy. For a vegan option, I often substitute yogurt with almond or coconut yogurt, achieving similar results without dairy. The type of oats matters too—rolled oats deliver a chewy texture, while quick oats can make the squares denser.

Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them. I prefer honey for its rich depth, but maple syrup adds a subtle earthiness—a great choice for those wanting a deeper flavor profile. If you want to cut calories or sugar further, consider using a mashed date mixture or even applesauce to replace some or all of the liquid sweetener. This tweak can yield delicious results without the extra sugar.

Spices and leavening agents are critical as well. Cinnamon brings warmth, balancing the sweetness of the bananas. The baking powder contributes to a light, airy texture, so don’t skip that! If you want to change the flavor profile, consider adding nutmeg or cardamom for more complexity. Just remember that a little of these spices goes a long way; I usually start with a pinch and adjust to my taste.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking the squares, be sure to monitor the oven closely. Depending on your oven's calibration, cooking times may vary slightly. The key is to look for a lightly golden top and set edges—a slight jiggle in the center is normal and signifies moistness. If the edges turn dark too quickly, you can cover them with aluminum foil for the last few minutes to avoid burning while the center finishes baking.

Allowing the squares to cool completely before cutting is crucial. This waiting period helps the structure to set, preventing crumbling or breaking when you slice. I usually leave mine in the pan for about 20-30 minutes before lifting them out with parchment. If they seem too soft, I suggest chilling them in the refrigerator for an additional 15-20 minutes before cutting, which can help achieve cleaner edges.

To store, keep the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in individual portions. Just wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer for a quick snack—simply pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Both Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined. If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is set and lightly golden.

Cool and Cut

Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift out of the pan using the parchment and cut into squares.

Pro Tips

These squares are versatile
feel free to experiment with different fruits or add-ins to suit your taste!

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them plain, but I love to pair them with a dollop of nut butter or a smear of yogurt on top for added protein and flavor. Fresh berries or sliced bananas as a garnish add not only color but also an extra burst of freshness—which is especially delightful for breakfast or brunch gatherings.

Feel free to enhance the flavor with toppings. A sprinkle of chopped nuts, seeds, or even a light drizzle of chocolate can elevate these squares to a whole new level. For a decadent brunch dish, serve them with whipped cream and sliced fruits to impress your guests with minimal effort. These squares are just as lovely as they are practical!

Custom Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider customizing the base recipe to suit your taste preferences. Incorporating different spices like ginger or cardamom can create exciting new flavors. You can also swap out half of the rolled oats for whole wheat ones to boost fiber content without sacrificing texture and taste. Experimenting with dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can also add a delightful chewiness.

For chocolate lovers, adding cocoa powder to the batter transforms these squares into a decadent treat. Just be sure to balance the added cocoa with a little extra honey or maple syrup to maintain the right flavor balance. Each small tweak opens a world of delicious possibilities!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dairy-free yogurt?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.

→ How long do these keep?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well, making them a convenient option for meal prep.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can top them with nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.