Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: nuts or chocolate chips for added texture

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a quick and nutritious snack. They are hearty, delicious, and perfect for breakfast or dessert. Using ripe bananas and creamy yogurt keeps these squares moist and packed with flavor. Every time I make them, my home fills with the comforting aroma of baked oats and banana. Plus, they are easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for those busy mornings when I still want to indulge in something sweet yet healthy.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:07:07.513Z

When I first tried making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was delighted by how simple and satisfying the process was. Mixing ripe bananas with oats and yogurt creates a moist texture that keeps well for several days. I discovered that letting them cool completely before slicing enhances their shape and prevents crumbling.

This recipe allows for easy customization, too. Sometimes I add a handful of nuts or some dark chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. Whether I’m enjoying them as a snack or sharing them with friends, they always receive rave reviews!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Healthy and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Deliciously moist texture with a hint of yogurt tang

      

The Role of Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star ingredient in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, providing natural sweetness and moisture. When bananas reach that perfect level of ripeness, their flavor intensifies, making the squares both nutritious and delectable. Opt for bananas with more brown spots, as their sweetness is enhanced, which allows you to reduce or even eliminate added sugars without compromising taste.

In addition to flavor, the bananas play a crucial role in binding the ingredients together. As they break down when mashed, they lend a creaminess that complements the yogurt, ensuring the finished product has a tender yet firm texture. If you find yourself short on bananas, you might substitute one with unsweetened applesauce, although this will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture is key to making these squares enjoyable. The rolled oats not only provide heartiness, but they also absorb moisture during baking, leaving you with a chewy yet soft final product. To ensure even hydration, let the mixed batter sit for about 5-10 minutes in the bowl before pouring it into the baking dish. This allows the oats to soak up some moisture and prevents them from being too tough in the finished squares.

Pay attention to baking time as well. Baking for the recommended 25 minutes generally yields a perfect golden top. However, depending on your oven, you might need a few additional minutes for a firmer finish. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center—it might have a couple of moist crumbs, but it shouldn’t be wet.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, these squares can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a convenient option for meal prep. Additionally, they freeze exceptionally well. Cut them into individual squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the microwave for a rapid snack fix.

To serve, consider a quick yogurt drizzle on top for added creaminess or a sprinkle of your favorite nuts for extra crunch. You could even pair them with fresh fruit or a dollop of nut butter to elevate the flavors and nutritional profile. These squares are versatile enough to be enjoyed on their own or as part of a broader breakfast spread.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

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

Mix well and prepare to bake!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps:

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Then, add the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Stir until fully combined.

Add Extras

If you're adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture now.

Bake the Squares

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the squares cool in the dish for 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, use really ripe bananas, and feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the taste.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares by adding different spices or flavors. A teaspoon of cinnamon can add warmth, while a bit of nutmeg delivers a unique twist. If you're a fan of chocolate, adding a half-cup of dark chocolate chips offers a rich contrast to the sweet bananas, transforming the squares into a delightful treat.

For a nutty flavor, consider substituting a portion of the oats with ground almonds or hazelnuts. This change not only enhances the flavor but also adds healthy fats and protein. Additionally, if you want to make these squares vegan, replace the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative and use maple syrup in place of honey.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your squares too crumbly, it’s often a sign that the mixture was too dry. Make sure your bananas are fully ripe and well-mashed for maximum moisture. Additionally, don’t hesitate to add a splash more yogurt to the batter for a creamier outcome. On the other hand, if they turn out too wet, it may be due to not baking them long enough—keep an eye on the edges for a golden color.

Another common issue is uneven baking, especially in less reliable ovens. If you notice the edges browning quicker than the center, you can rotate the baking dish halfway through the baking time. Using an oven thermometer can also help ensure accurate temperatures, allowing for perfectly baked squares every time.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe scales beautifully without any hassle, so doubling or halving it is straightforward. If you want to make a larger batch for gatherings, simply use a larger baking dish and keep the same temperature and bake time in mind, although you might need to adjust for an extra few minutes if it's thicker.

When halving the recipe, consider using a smaller dish, but keep an eye on bake time—starting with shorter intervals before checking for doneness can prevent overbaking. Regardless of size adjustment, always ensure that your ingredients maintain the same ratios for the best outcomes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free oats to make them suitable for a gluten-free diet.

→ How should I store the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and they’ll keep for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as almond or coconut yogurt, depending on your dietary preferences.