Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: nuts or chocolate chips for topping

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a quick, nutritious snack that satisfies my sweet cravings. The combination of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and wholesome oats creates a chewy texture that’s both delicious and filling. Not only can I whip these up in no time, but they also make for an easy breakfast option on busy mornings. With no refined sugar and plenty of natural goodness, these squares are a guilt-free indulgence that I feel great about sharing with my family and friends.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:01:11.595Z

When I first experimented with making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was pleasantly surprised at how well they turned out. The secret is using overripe bananas, which not only sweeten the squares naturally but also add a lovely moistness that enhances the overall texture. I also found that letting the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking allows the oats to hydrate properly, ensuring each bite is soft and chewy.

These squares have become a staple in my kitchen, whether I'm preparing for a busy week or hosting friends. I often customize them with my favorite add-ins like walnuts or dark chocolate chips for a little extra flair. Honestly, they’re perfect for any occasion and a great way to use up those bananas sitting on the counter!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Chewy and satisfying with a natural sweetness
Packed with nutritious ingredients, no refined sugar
Perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or afternoon snacks

      

Perfecting the Texture

For the best chewy texture in your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, it's crucial to ensure that your bananas are sufficiently ripe. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your squares will be. Look for bananas with a few brown spots, as this indicates they have developed the natural sugars needed for the recipe. If you're in a hurry, you can speed up the ripening process by placing bananas in a paper bag at room temperature, which will trap ethylene gas and encourage ripening.

Additionally, mixing the ingredients until smooth creates a homogenous batter that ensures even baking. It's helpful to use a fork or potato masher to break down the bananas completely before adding the yogurt. This step can prevent lumps in your final product and give it a consistent chew throughout, eliminating any pockets of dry oats that might occur if not blended well.

Variations and Add-ins

One of the best aspects of these squares is their versatility. If you're looking to add a bit of crunch, consider incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, which not only enhance the texture but also boost the nutritional value. Alternatively, a sprinkle of chocolate chips can satisfy your sweet tooth perfectly and make the squares feel more indulgent. Feel free to experiment with ingredients like shredded coconut, dried fruits, or seeds to create your own unique twist on this recipe.

For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats, ensuring that anyone with gluten intolerance can enjoy these delicious treats. Just be cautious of cross-contamination if you are preparing food for someone with celiac disease. Similarly, if you're looking to cut back on sweetness, you can reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup by half and rely on the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

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

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious 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 for easy removal.

Mix Ingredients

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

Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined. If using, fold in nuts or chocolate chips at this stage.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Cut

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

Enjoy your homemade Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Pro Tips

For added texture, try mixing in some chopped nuts or dried fruit. You can also substitute the yogurt for a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Storage and Reheating

After you've baked your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares and allowed them to cool completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, which can keep them good for up to a week. This makes them an ideal make-ahead snack for busy weeks or for meal prepping purposes, ensuring you have a nutritious option readily available.

If you want to enjoy them later, these squares also freeze well. Cut them into portions, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy a square, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or give them a quick microwave zap for about 15-20 seconds to warm them slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be enjoyed on their own, but for a nourishing breakfast or snack, consider pairing them with fresh fruit or a dollop of additional yogurt on top. Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess, while berries or sliced banana can complement the flavors beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.

For those who love a bit of crunch, cut the squares into smaller bites and serve them with a side of granola or mixed nuts. This not only enhances the textural variety but also makes for a satisfying snack to power you through the day. Additionally, a drizzle of nut butter can elevate these squares even further, bringing in a rich, savory element that contrasts delightfully with their sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! Applesauce or pumpkin puree can be great substitutes for bananas.

→ How should I store the squares?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap them tightly and they will last up to 3 months.

→ Are these squares gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, these squares can be gluten-free!