Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 ½ cups rolled oats; ¼ cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon salt; Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating delicious treats that are both healthy and satisfying, and these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares definitely hit the mark! The combination of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and wholesome oats creates a delightful snack that's perfect for any time of the day. Whether I'm enjoying them as a quick breakfast or a midday treat, they never fail to lift my spirits. Plus, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized with various add-ins, making it one of my go-to favorites!

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:40:15.771Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I used leftover bananas and some yogurt I had in the fridge. The result was surprisingly delightful! The texture is soft and chewy, and the subtle sweetness of the bananas pairs beautifully with oats. It became a staple in my kitchen. The method of mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them makes a significant difference, resulting in well-distributed flavors throughout.

One tip I learned while perfecting this recipe is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the oats to absorb some of the moisture and leads to a heartier, more satisfying square. I love adding a handful of walnuts or chocolate chips for an extra crunch. You can totally adjust the sweetness based on your preference, but the bananas usually provide just the right amount!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Wholesome ingredients for a nutritious snack
Perfect balance of sweetness from ripe bananas
Easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins

      

Ingredient Breakdown

The star ingredients of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are the ripe bananas and plain yogurt. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, which results in a soft and tender texture. The yogurt not only contributes creaminess but also provides a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the bananas. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, almond yogurt or coconut yogurt works well as a substitute without compromising the flavor.

The rolled oats serve as the base, giving the squares a hearty and satisfying crunch. They are packed with fiber and nutrients, making these squares a wholesome snack. Ensure you use large-flake rolled oats for the best texture; instant oats may make the squares mushy. Additionally, the optional nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and provide an extra crunch, catering to your personal taste.

Baking Tips

When baking, precise measuring is crucial for achieving the desired texture. Use a kitchen scale if you have one to weigh the ingredients, especially the oats and flour (if any). Baking time may vary, so keep an eye on the squares as they bake. Look for golden edges and a firm center; inserting a toothpick should yield moist crumbs rather than wet batter. If the squares seem too soft upon cooling, they may need a few extra minutes in the oven next time.

Cooling is an important step that shouldn't be overlooked. Allowing the squares to rest in the pan for 10 minutes helps them set and makes them easier to cut. If you prefer soft and chewy squares, you can slightly underbake them. Alternatively, for firmer squares, add a few extra minutes to the baking time, keeping in mind that the texture will continue to firm up as they cool.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt
1 ½ cups rolled oats
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips

With everything prepared, let's move on to the next steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking pan (8x8 inch) or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

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

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Now, it's time to savor the delightful Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some shredded coconut into the batter. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares make a fantastic snack on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with toppings. Consider drizzling them with a bit of extra honey or maple syrup for added sweetness or serving them with fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries or blueberries. For an even more decadent treat, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt on top can elevate them into a delightful dessert.

For breakfast, you can serve these squares alongside a smoothie or a fruit salad. They are also portable, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings. Just cut them into smaller squares and store them in an airtight container; they will last in the refrigerator for up to five days, retaining their flavor and texture nicely.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These squares are perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator to have easy snacks on hand throughout the week. If you'd like to store them for longer, they freeze beautifully! Simply wrap each square in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to three months, and you can defrost them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in the microwave.

It's also easy to adjust the recipe for larger gatherings. Doubling the recipe is straightforward; just ensure you use a larger baking dish or bake them in batches. Keep an eye on the baking time, as larger quantities may require a few additional minutes in the oven. Whether you're prepping for a busy week or a special occasion, these squares are easy to adapt and perfect for sharing!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use plant-based yogurt?

Absolutely! Any plant-based yogurt will work well in this recipe.

→ How can I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze them?

Yes, these squares freeze well. Just wrap them individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or any sweetener of your choice.