Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love how these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares bring together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the wholesome nutrition of oats. These squares are not only easy to make, but they are also perfect as a quick breakfast or a healthy snack on-the-go. The yogurt adds a creamy texture while still keeping everything light. Trust me, once you've tried these, you'll find yourself making them regularly for both yourself and your family!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:31:12.181Z

When I first attempted these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I wanted a snack that balanced indulgence and nutrition. The key is using ripe bananas, which add natural sweetness without the need for additional sugar, making them perfect for a healthier treat. I also experimented with the yogurt, choosing full-fat Greek yogurt to achieve that delightful creaminess.

As I perfected the recipe, I found that letting the mixture sit for about 10 minutes before baking allowed the oats to absorb some moisture, yielding a tender yet chewy texture that I absolutely adore. It was all about finding that perfect balance of flavors and textures!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist texture with wholesome oats
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas
Versatile as breakfast or a healthy snack

      

Understanding Ingredients

The foundation of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in the combination of ripe bananas and rolled oats. Ripe bananas not only impart natural sweetness but also contribute moisture to the squares, ensuring a tender texture. When selecting bananas, opt for those with plenty of brown spots, as these will be the sweetest and will blend easily into the mixture. Rolled oats serve as a hearty base, offering fiber and essential nutrients without overpowering the flavor of the bananas.

Greek yogurt is included to provide a creamy texture and additional protein, making these squares satisfying and nutritious. Choosing plain Greek yogurt is ideal, as it keeps the sweetness balanced. If you're looking for a dairy-free version, consider using a plant-based yogurt alternative, keeping in mind that the consistency might vary slightly. The addition of baking powder is essential, as it helps the squares rise slightly, resulting in a light, airy texture.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When pouring the banana oat mixture into the baking dish, take care to spread it evenly across the surface. This ensures that all areas bake uniformly, resulting in consistent texture and doneness. An offset spatula works wonders for smoothing the mixture. Keep an eye on the baking time; looking for a lightly golden top and a firm texture will prevent overbaking, which can lead to dryness. If you find the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Once baked, allow the squares to cool in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling in the pan helps them set, reducing the risk of crumbling. Cutting them while they are slightly warm makes for clean edges, but if you wait until they are completely cool, you'll have sturdier squares that hold their shape well. For the best results, use a sharp knife; this will help to neatly cut through the oats and bananas without mashing them.

Ingredients

For the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.

Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Pour and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and firm to the touch.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some chopped dried fruit or seeds into the mixture before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are incredibly versatile for meal prep. After they have completely cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness to about a week. If you prefer, you can freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

I often double the recipe to have a larger batch on hand. Simply bake two trays side by side in the oven, or you can bake them one after the other if oven space is limited. If you're scaling up, just be mindful that baking times may vary slightly, so start checking for doneness at the original baking time and adjust as needed.

Flavor Variations and Add-ins

One of the best parts about these squares is their adaptability. You can switch up the flavor profile by adding ingredients like grated zucchini or applesauce for extra moisture and nutrition. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider mixing in some chia seeds or flaxseeds, which also boost the omega-3 content. Different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, can be incorporated to elevate the flavor profile even further.

For a fun twist, jazz up your squares by using flavored yogurt, such as vanilla or coconut. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a swirl of nut butter or a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top before baking. These simple modifications can transform your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares into various delectable treats, keeping your snacking exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ How should I store these squares?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well and can be stored for up to 3 months. Just thaw before enjoying.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if desired.