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 rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares! They’re not only a delicious snack but also a healthy treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. The combination of bananas, oats, and yogurt creates a wonderfully moist texture, while the natural sweetness of the fruit means you don’t need to add much sugar. I often prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, and they’re a hit with everyone in the family. Trust me, these squares are worth trying as they provide a delightful twist to your usual snacks!

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:58:12.662Z

When I first tried creating a snack that could double as a breakfast option, I stumbled upon these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. What caught my attention was the potential for health and flavor in one bite. Using ripe bananas not only enhances the sweetness but also gives the squares a fantastic moistness that’s hard to resist. I love swapping out regular yogurt for Greek yogurt to add an extra protein boost!

I also threw in some cinnamon, which elevates the flavor profile beautifully and complements the bananas. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can come together to produce such a satisfying treat. These squares have become a weekly staple in my home.

        What You'll Love
        Natural sweetness from ripe bananas
Nutty texture from oats and added crunch
A versatile snack that fits breakfast or dessert

      

Mastering the Perfect Texture

To achieve that wonderfully moist texture in your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, the ripeness of the bananas is crucial. Use bananas that are overly ripe, as they have a higher sugar content and will lend more moisture to the batter. When mashing, make sure there are no large lumps to ensure even distribution throughout the mixture, which helps maintain a soft, chewy square once baked.

The combination of yogurt and oats also plays a critical role. Yogurt adds richness and moisture, while rolled oats provide structure and a slight chew. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a full-fat version. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt; just be aware that it may impart a mild coconut flavor to the final product.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is quite versatile, allowing for several substitutions based on dietary preferences or pantry availability. If you want to lower the sugar content, you can reduce the honey or maple syrup by half and increase the mashed banana quantity to offset the sweetness. For an added nutritional boost, consider mixing in ground flaxseed or chia seeds; just ensure to adjust the dry ingredient balance accordingly.

For those looking to change up the flavor profile, the addition of chocolate chips or nuts like walnuts or pecans can elevate these squares further. Stir in about 1/2 cup of your choice after combining the wet and dry ingredients. You can also replace the cinnamon with other spices, such as nutmeg or pumpkin spice, for a seasonal twist.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares store beautifully, making them an ideal make-ahead snack. Once cooled, you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extended freshness, wrap them individually and freeze; they can last for up to three months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat in the microwave for a warm treat on busy mornings.

Serving these squares warm adds to their comfort factor, but they are equally delightful at room temperature. I recommend pairing them with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts on top for an added texture contrast. You can also enjoy them with a smear of peanut butter or almond butter for a protein-packed snack.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful treat:

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
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you've gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start making your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve delicious squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out and cutting them into squares. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

These squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits into the mixture before baking. These will bring added texture and nutrients to your squares.

Tips for Successful Baking

Watch the baking time closely as ovens can vary widely. Start checking for doneness five minutes before the recommended 25 minutes; you're looking for a golden-brown top and a firm texture. If the edges appear overly brown while the center is still soft, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking to ensure even cooking.

If you find your squares falling apart, it might be due to insufficient binding. Make sure to incorporate the oats fully and allow the mixture to rest for a few minutes before baking. This helps the oats absorb moisture and bind better, resulting in a firmer square that holds its shape.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings or meal prep. Simply double or triple the ingredients, and use larger baking pans accordingly. For best results, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes for each additional batch; keep an eye on the color and consistency to avoid overbaking.

If you're looking to create smaller portions, consider using a muffin tin instead. This will provide individual servings that are easier to take on the go. Bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are set and lightly golden.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt with another type?

Yes, you can use any plain yogurt you prefer. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt will provide a thicker texture.

→ How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots, as these will be sweeter.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares freeze well. Just wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute honey with maple syrup and make sure to use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.