Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I first experimented with banana oat yogurt squares, I was searching for a healthy yet satisfying snack. The combination of creamy yogurt, ripe bananas, and hearty oats turned out to be a game changer. I love how these squares are naturally sweetened with bananas and offer a chewy texture that's so satisfying. Plus, they're super easy to make and perfect for meal prep! I always find myself reaching for these when I need a quick pick-me-up during the day.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:01:12.546Z

Creating these banana oat yogurt squares was inspired by my love for wholesome snacks. I decided to pair oats with yogurt, and the result was simply delightful. The recipe is quite forgiving, meaning you can adjust the quantity of bananas or oats based on what you have available. While testing, I found that letting the mixture sit for a few minutes helps the oats absorb moisture, giving the squares a perfect chewy consistency.

One specific detail I recommend is to use overripe bananas, as they add a natural sweetness and enhance the flavor. Trust me, these squares are a wonderful way to use up those bananas sitting on your countertop. They’re not just delicious—they're packed with nutrients, making them an ideal snack or breakfast option!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor balanced with creamy yogurt
Nutritious and filling, perfect for on-the-go snacking
Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins

      

The Role of Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and moisture. The ideal bananas are those with plenty of brown spots, as they have developed a sweeter flavor. When using them, mash them well to ensure they seamlessly blend into the batter, contributing to the overall texture of the squares. This not only enhances the taste but also helps achieve a fudgy consistency that contrasts beautifully with the firmness of the oats.

Additionally, bananas help bind the ingredients together, reducing the need for excessive added fats or sugars. Their unique properties make them an excellent choice for healthier snack options. If you find yourself short on bananas, you can substitute with unsweetened applesauce in equal measure—though this may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When pouring the mixture into the baking dish, use a spatula to ensure an even spread. This promotes uniform baking and prevents any gooey center. Keep an eye on the oven during the last 5 minutes; you want the edges to be golden brown, indicating a perfectly baked square. If the edges become overly dark before the center cooks through, covering the dish loosely with aluminum foil can help manage browning while allowing the middle to set.

After baking, letting the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes is crucial for ease of removal. If you try to cut them too soon, they may crumble. A sharp knife will give you cleaner edges. For serving, I recommend pairing them with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts to enhance both flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your banana oat yogurt squares:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Make sure to mix thoroughly for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your banana oat yogurt squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

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

Add Dry Ingredients

Fold in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.

Bake the Squares

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

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

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

Pro Tips

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. These squares can also be frozen for longer storage.

Customizing Your Squares

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily incorporate add-ins such as dark chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. Just be sure to not exceed a total of one cup of add-ins to maintain the balance of wet and dry ingredients. If you're looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make a great substitute and add an enjoyable crunch.

For a vegan alternative, replace the honey or maple syrup with a mashed date or agave nectar. Additionally, opting for a vegan yogurt will maintain the creamy texture while ensuring the recipe aligns with plant-based diets. These modifications allow you to tailor the recipe to satisfy various dietary preferences.

Storage and Meal Prep

These banana oat yogurt squares are perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; simply place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. To reheat, simply pop one in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack.

Consider portioning them into grab-and-go packs for easy snacking during busy weekdays. This way, you can avoid reaching for less nutritious options. A drizzle of nut butter can instantly elevate the squares if you're bringing them to work or a picnic, adding extra protein while enhancing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of yogurt?

Yes, you can use any yogurt of your choice, including plant-based options.

→ How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper the bananas, the sweeter the squares will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.

→ Can I add nuts or seeds?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or seeds is a great way to enhance the texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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