Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 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 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares turn out! They’re not only incredibly easy to make but pack a wholesome punch with the perfect balance of flavors. Each bite is soft, moist, and filled with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas sitting on my countertop. I often make a batch for a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack, and they never last long in my house!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:49:16.298Z

During one of my baking adventures, I decided to experiment with some leftover yogurt and overripe bananas, and that’s how I came up with these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. The creamy yogurt combined with the mashed bananas creates an exceptional texture and flavor that you just can’t resist. I found that the key to getting the perfect squares is ensuring the bananas are very ripe, which enhances the natural sweetness.

Another tip I learned is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This helps them to hold their shape better, ensuring each square is a delightful treat! I often add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth, and sometimes pair them with a dollop of your favorite nut butter for a protein boost.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious alternative to traditional snacks
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess

      

Ingredient Insights

The bananas are the star of this recipe, providing both natural sweetness and moisture. Make sure to use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots, as this ensures the best flavor and sweetness. If you have overripe bananas, this is the perfect use for them! You can easily mash them with a fork in a bowl until completely smooth; this should take just a couple of minutes.

Plain yogurt adds a creamy texture and a slight tang to balance the sweetness of the bananas. Depending on your preference, you can use dairy or non-dairy yogurt. Greek yogurt is a great choice if you want a thicker end result, while regular yogurt will maintain a lighter texture. Just be cautious—if you're using a non-dairy option, check if it has added sugars, as this could alter the sweetness level.

Baking Tips

When combining the dry and wet ingredients, gently fold them together rather than mixing vigorously. This keeps the squares light and tender. You should aim for a batter that’s just combined, meaning some lumps of oats and banana are still visible. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid to keep the squares airy and soft.

Once your squares are baked, check that the edges are golden brown and that a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you find it is still sticky after 30 minutes, give it another 5 minutes in the oven. It's crucial to allow the squares to cool completely in the pan, as this helps them set up nicely and makes them easier to cut without crumbling.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make these delicious squares:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results!

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 line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy these delicious squares warm or cold, whichever you prefer!

Pro Tips

For added texture, you can mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruit before baking. When it comes to storage, these squares freeze well, so feel free to make an extra batch for later.

Storage and Meal Prep

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will keep for about a week. For even more extended storage, they can be frozen. Cut them into squares and place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.

When reheating, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge. They’re also delicious topped with nut butter or yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor while serving. This way, you can create a quick, nutritious breakfast that feels a bit different each time.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to mix up the flavors by adding in your favorite nuts or seeds—walnuts or chia seeds would add a nice crunch and additional nutrients. You could also throw in some chocolate chips or dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. Just make sure the additional ingredients don’t exceed a total of 1/2 cup to maintain the right moisture level.

For a spiced version, consider increasing the cinnamon or adding nutmeg for a warm flavor profile. If you’re aiming for a tropical twist, try incorporating shredded coconut or a few tablespoons of crushed pineapple. These simple additions can elevate the recipe while keeping it quick and easy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier bite.

→ How should I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I substitute yogurt with a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! Use your favorite dairy-free yogurt to make this recipe vegan and dairy-free.

→ Is it possible to add chocolate chips?

Definitely! Adding chocolate chips can make them even more delightful and a real treat.