Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a quick and nutritious snack to enjoy throughout the week. The combination of ripe bananas, oats, and yogurt creates a delightful texture and taste that even my kids adore. With minimal ingredients and preparation time, I can whip these squares up in no time. They also make an incredible breakfast on-the-go or a post-workout treat, providing the energy I need to tackle my day. Plus, the bonus is that they’re healthy and satisfying!

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:46:11.298Z

My journey towards a healthier lifestyle led me to experiment with different snack options, and that’s when I stumbled upon the idea of Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. I was looking for something that combined nutrition with great flavor and found that this recipe hits the spot. By using ripe bananas, I can naturally sweeten the squares, making them a delightful treat without added sugars.

While creating this recipe, I learned that the yogurt not only adds moisture but also a creaminess that binds everything together, making the final result irresistible. I recommend adjusting the baking time based on your oven, as I’ve found the perfect texture can vary slightly from batch to batch. Enjoy making these scrumptious squares!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas for a wholesome snack
Packed with fiber and protein for lasting energy
Great for meal prep – perfect for busy mornings

      

Texture and Flavor Profile

The texture of Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is one of its most appealing features. The combination of mashed bananas with yogurt results in a moist, cake-like consistency that holds together well yet remains soft. The rolled oats provide a subtle chewiness, balancing the creaminess of the yogurt nicely. If you prefer a denser square, you can decrease the yogurt slightly; conversely, adding a bit more oats can create a heartier bite. This versatility allows you to adjust the texture based on personal preference.

In terms of flavor, the natural sweetness of the ripe bananas shines through, enhanced by the hint of vanilla and the warmth of cinnamon, if included. If you’re looking for a bolder taste, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist. The honey or maple syrup can also be adjusted according to your sweetness preference, making these squares easy to customize while still maintaining their nutritious integrity.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are incredibly adaptable, allowing for various substitutions based on dietary needs. For a vegan option, simply use non-dairy yogurt and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Similarly, if you're avoiding gluten, ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free. For those who find themselves without a ripe banana, unsweetened applesauce can be used as a great alternative—just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, becoming a tad less moist.

You can also play around with add-ins to jazz up the flavor and nutritional profile. Consider folding in some chopped nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips after mixing the wet and dry ingredients. For a protein boost, a scoop of protein powder can be discreetly mixed into the dry ingredients. These variations not only enhance the flavor but can also make these squares more satisfying for an active day.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

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

Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Enjoy as a snack or breakfast!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are perfect for meal prep, as they can be easily stored and enjoyed throughout the week. Once you’ve cut them into squares, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. If freezing, layer the squares with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy separation when you’re ready to enjoy one.

When you're ready to eat a frozen square, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or pop it in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through. This makes them an excellent grab-and-go breakfast or snack option, providing a quick energy boost whenever needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your squares turn out too dense, it may be due to excess oats or insufficient liquid. To remedy this in future batches, weigh your ingredients for accuracy or add a touch more yogurt. You should aim for a batter that is thick yet pourable, resembling a muffin batter. Conversely, if they crumble too much, consider adding an extra banana for moisture or scaling back on the oats slightly.

Overbaking can lead to dry squares, so watch for the edges to begin turning golden brown, as this is a key visual cue for doneness. If you find that they are overbaked, try serving them with a dollop of yogurt on top to add moisture back into each square, enhancing both flavor and texture for a delightful treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dairy-free yogurt?

Absolutely! You can substitute with almond, coconut, or any dairy-free yogurt of your choice.

→ How do I make these gluten-free?

Just ensure that you use certified gluten-free oats for the recipe.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of bananas?

You can substitute applesauce or another pureed fruit in place of bananas for a different flavor.