Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares! They are not just healthy but also incredibly delicious. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy yogurt results in a moist, flavorful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a midday snack. With the heartiness of oats, these squares keep me full and satisfied. They’re simple to make and can even be prepped ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your routine!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:19:15.378Z

Creating these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares was a delightful experience. I remember standing in my kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of ripe bananas, thinking about how this recipe would not only be easy to make but also provide a nutritious energy boost. I used Greek yogurt to enhance the creaminess and add a protein kick, which really elevated the overall texture.

After some trial and error, I found that blending the bananas until smooth helped integrate their sweetness into the batter perfectly. I also added a pinch of cinnamon for an aromatic touch. These squares turned out beautifully, and I couldn’t wait to share them with friends!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Moist and flavorful with every bite
Packed with nutrients to power your day
Perfectly sweet without added sugars

      

Why Bananas and Oats Are Key Ingredients

The ripe bananas in this recipe not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute moisture, which keeps the squares tender and enjoyable. When mashed, they release their sugars and flavors, creating a deliciously rich base. Always choose bananas that have plenty of brown spots; they transform into an irresistible flavor enhancer during baking. If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two.

Oats are the backbone of these squares, offering a hearty texture that balances the creamy yogurt and sweet bananas. They act as a binding agent, ensuring the squares hold together well. For a gluten-free option, substitute with certified gluten-free oats, maintaining the recipe's integrity. In addition to providing fiber, oats are also rich in protein; this combination creates a satisfying, energy-boosting snack or breakfast.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

Achieving the perfect bake is all about timing and temperature. Baking at 350°F (175°C) allows the edges to crisp up slightly while keeping the center moist. Keep an eye on the squares during the last few minutes of baking; they should be golden brown on top and spring back slightly when touched. If they look too soft and haven’t browned, give them an additional 5 minutes. Remember, underbaking can lead to mushy squares, while overbaking might dry them out.

To ensure even cooking, consider rotating the baking dish halfway through the baking time. Oven temperatures can vary, and this simple step minimizes the risk of unevenly baked squares. Additionally, for a more compact texture, press the mixture down firmly in the pan before baking. If you're using a metal pan, you may want to reduce the bake time as it conducts heat differently compared to glass or ceramic.

Ingredients

For the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 cups rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix all the ingredients well before baking to ensure a uniform texture.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

Add rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the banana mixture. Stir until fully combined.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish 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 dish for about 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Enjoy these squares warm or store them in an airtight container for later!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider mixing in some nuts or dried fruits to the batter before baking.

Storing and Freezing Your Squares

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Simply cut the cooled squares, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze for an hour, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can easily grab one at a time without defrosting the entire batch.

When reheating frozen squares, I recommend using a microwave for about 30-45 seconds or placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This ensures they remain moist and delightful, just like fresh-baked. Pairing with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey when serving can elevate the flavors even more!

Variations to Try

Don’t hesitate to experiment with this recipe! You can mix in some chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition. Walnuts or pumpkin seeds pair nicely with the flavors of banana and oats, while also contributing healthy fats. For those who enjoy a touch of chocolate, consider adding a handful of dark chocolate chips to the mixture right before baking; they melt beautifully and offer a delightful surprise in every square.

If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can increase the cinnamon or even include nutmeg for a warm, comforting taste. For a different fruit twist, try using unsweetened applesauce instead of some of the bananas; it balances flavors while keeping the squares moist. Each variation brings a new and exciting dimension to your breakfast or snack routine!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt for another type of yogurt?

Yes, you can use any plain yogurt, but Greek yogurt provides a creamier texture.

→ How should I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?

Absolutely! These squares freeze well. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits can give these squares an extra flavor boost.