Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1.5 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips for topping

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meal Delights

I absolutely love these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. They are wholesome, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. With ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and hearty oats, each bite is a balanced treat that satisfies both my sweet cravings and my nutritional needs. Whether I enjoy them as a breakfast option or a post-workout snack, these squares are perfect for any time of the day. They are great for meal prep and can be stored for a quick grab-and-go solution that never compromises on flavor!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:16:16.785Z

When I first baked these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was amazed by how easy and satisfying they turned out. Combining staples like oats and yogurt with ripe bananas not only adds natural sweetness but also keeps the squares moist and delicious. I found that using overripe bananas really enhances the flavor, making them even more irresistible!

Another detail that makes these squares special is the versatility of the recipe. I love to experiment by adding nuts or dark chocolate chips for different textures and flavors. These adjustments can elevate the treat and allow for endless customizations based on my mood or pantry items. It’s a great way to keep things fresh!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
Packed with fiber and protein from oats and yogurt
Perfect for meal prep and easy snacks on-the-go

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The blend of ripe bananas and yogurt not only creates a natural sweetness but also offers a rich, moist texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel of these squares. Ripe bananas provide essential nutrients like potassium and vitamins, while yogurt contributes protein and probiotics, making this recipe a wholesome option. The combination yields a tender result that holds together beautifully, avoiding the common dry texture often associated with baked oat snacks.

Rolled oats play a starring role in this recipe, providing fiber and a satisfying chewiness. Using rolled oats instead of quick oats ensures that the texture remains hearty rather than mushy. If you want to elevate the nutritional profile even further, consider swapping out half of the oats for oat flour or using gluten-free oats to accommodate dietary needs without compromising the flavor.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When it comes to baking the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, keeping an eye on the cooking time is essential. Bake them for about 25 minutes, but check for visual cues: the edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If you prefer a denser texture, you can extend the baking time slightly but be cautious to prevent them from drying out.

Cooling is also a critical step in achieving the right texture. Allow the squares to cool in the baking dish for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This rest period helps them set properly, making it easier to cut them into neat squares without crumbling. If they feel too soft during this step, give them a bit more time to cool completely.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Both Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is fully incorporated.

Add Toppings

If desired, fold in any nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips at this stage.

Bake

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

Cool and Cut

Let the squares cool in the baking dish for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the wet ingredients.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch ahead of time and store them for later. Once cooled, I recommend storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Just remember to separate the squares with parchment paper to make thawing and enjoying them easier.

If you're looking to reheat, simply pop a square in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, just until warmed through. This brings back the lovely softness and goodness of the yogurt without compromising flavor. Enjoy them warm for a delightful treat any time of day!

Flavor Variations and Add-ins

Feel free to customize your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares! Adding chocolate chips can give a sweet twist, or you could toss in nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch. For a fruity variation, consider folding in some berries—like blueberries or chopped strawberries—into the batter for a fresh burst of flavor with each bite.

If you're looking to reduce sweetness, you can also cut down on honey or maple syrup since the ripe bananas already contribute significant natural sugars. For a dairy-free option, substitute plain yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative. This keeps the squares moist while catering to dietary preferences without altering their delicious flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain?

Yes, flavored yogurt can add more sweetness and taste. Just reduce the amount of honey or syrup you're adding.

→ How can I make these gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free rolled oats and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?

Absolutely! Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of bananas?

Applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes can be great substitutes for bananas, although the flavor will change slightly.