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 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a quick and nutritious snack option. These squares are the perfect blend of creamy yogurt, ripe bananas, and hearty oats. I often whip them up for breakfast or an afternoon treat, and they never fail to satisfy. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite nuts or dried fruits. Trust me, once you try these delightful squares, you'll be adding them to your recipe repertoire for good!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:16:13.395Z

When I first experimented with Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was surprised by how well the ingredients worked together. The combination of oats and yogurt creates a texture that's both satisfying and filling. I learned that using overripe bananas not only enhances the sweetness but also helps bind the mixture, making it easier to slice into squares once baked.

Another tip I discovered is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This step really helps maintain their shape and texture. I've found these squares are not only delicious but also versatile; you can throw in a handful of nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon, depending on your mood and preference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A wholesome snack that’s naturally sweetened with bananas
High in fiber, keeping you full and satisfied
Perfect for meal prep, so you can grab them on the go

      

Ingredient Insights

The key to the delightful texture of Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in the combination of ripe bananas and yogurt. Ripe bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute moisture, making the squares soft and chewy. When selecting bananas, look for ones with plenty of brown spots; they are sweeter and mash easily. Yogurt, on the other hand, adds a creamy tang that balances the sweetness of the bananas and enhances the squares' overall moisture content, resulting in a beautifully cohesive bite.

Incorporating rolled oats is crucial for both nutrition and texture. They provide a hearty base that is rich in fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute regular rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats. If you prefer a nuttier flavor and texture, opt for steel-cut oats, but keep in mind that this will change the baking time slightly, requiring an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure they soften properly while baking.

Baking Tips

When baking your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, precise timing is key. Bake the mixture in a preheated oven until the edges turn a golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This usually takes about 25-30 minutes, but times may vary based on your oven. If you notice the top browning too quickly, gently cover it with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning while allowing the center to set.

Ensure you use a square baking dish that is the right size; an 8x8 inch dish yields the best results. If the dish is too large, the squares may become thin and dry out too quickly. Conversely, using a smaller dish will result in thicker squares that might require longer baking time. After baking, let them cool on a wire rack to avoid steaming, which can make the base soggy. This cooling step is essential for achieving the perfect, chewy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

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

Mix these ingredients well to ensure everything is evenly combined.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking dish.

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and any optional ingredients you're using.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a snack or breakfast option!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding chocolate chips or swapping out nuts for seeds. These squares also freeze well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them later.

Customization Ideas

One of the great things about Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is their versatility. Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or seeds, such as chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds, which will add a delightful crunch and boost the nutrient profile. You can also experiment with different dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, enhancing both flavor and texture. Simply adjust the amount of oats slightly if you add additional ingredients to ensure the mixture remains cohesive.

For those who prefer a bit of a flavor twist, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate version or incorporating a peel of grated lemon or orange zest for a citrusy zing. These small additions can transform the flavor profile significantly, giving you a reason to whip up a new batch each week with a different flair.

Storage and Freezing

Once your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are completely cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them where they will last about a week. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to keep them for an even longer period, slice and freeze the squares in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a ready snack anytime.

Reheating these squares is simple. You can microwave individual squares for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. This will revive their texture and flavor, making them taste freshly baked, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon energy boost.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt will give the squares a thicker consistency and add more protein.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can last up to a week in the refrigerator or you can freeze them for up to three months.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Yes, you can mix in berries or even some apple chunks for added flavor and nutrition.

→ Are these squares gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, then these squares can be gluten-free!