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 (Greek or regular); 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds); 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries)

Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome

I absolutely love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a healthy snack or breakfast option. They are easy to prepare and come together in just a few minutes! The combination of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and wholesome oats creates a delightful flavor and texture that leaves me satisfied. Plus, they can be customized with different toppings, making them versatile for any occasion. Whether I’m packing them for lunch or enjoying them at home, these squares always hit the spot.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-16T01:25:17.292Z

When I first tried making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was blown away by how simple and delicious they were. My original intention was to use up some overripe bananas, and these squares turned out to be the perfect solution. I found that mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them resulted in a better texture, allowing the oats to fully absorb the moisture from the yogurt and bananas.

Since then, I've experimented with adding nuts and chocolate chips to the mixture, which adds an extra layer of flavor. One tip I always recommend is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them into portions; this helps them hold their shape nicely and makes for a perfect serving!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Simple to make and require no baking skills
Nutritious, packed with fiber, and naturally sweet
Perfect for meal prep on busy days
Customizable with your favorite mix-ins and toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in the ripe bananas and yogurt. The bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also act as a binding agent, giving the squares their moist texture. It’s crucial to use overripe bananas for optimal sweetness; their sugar content enhances the overall flavor. If you don’t have ripe bananas, place unripe ones in a brown paper bag for a day or two to speed up the ripening process.

Yogurt plays a vital role in adding creaminess and moisture to the mixture. Greek yogurt will add a thicker consistency, while regular yogurt results in a softer texture. Both options work well, but keep in mind that flavored yogurts will alter the taste. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt can be a great substitute, providing a subtle coconut flavor while keeping the recipe creamy.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

For the perfect bake, be sure to use an 8x8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. This method ensures easy removal and proper cooling of the squares. Keep an eye on the edges while baking; they should turn golden brown but avoid overbaking, which can lead to dry squares. If you notice them browning too quickly, consider covering them with foil for the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.

After baking, let the squares cool completely in the pan. Cutting them too soon can result in crumbling. I find it helpful to let them refrigerate for about 30 minutes once cooled; this additional chill makes them easier to slice and enhances the flavors as they meld together. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week for a quick, grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares.

Main Ingredients

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

Optional Mix-ins

1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries)

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up 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.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and yogurt. Stir until well combined, then add in honey (or maple syrup) and mix again.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in any optional mix-ins.

Bake

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

Cool and Slice

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week。

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients. You can also substitute half of the rolled oats for almond flour for a slightly different texture.

Customizations and Variations

One of the best aspects of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with mix-ins; for instance, substituting chocolate chips with dried cherries or nuts can completely change the flavor profile. If you want to boost the protein content further, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder along with the oats, adjusting the liquid ingredients slightly if needed.

For a more indulgent option, try drizzling almond butter or additional honey over the top before slicing. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add a nice visual appeal. You can also layer in a dollop of yogurt between the squares for a delightful creaminess that complements the oats and bananas beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your squares come out overly crumbly, it may be due to either an insufficient amount of wet ingredients or overbaking. Always ensure the bananas are adequately mashed and fully incorporated into the yogurt before mixing with the oats. If you find the squares too wet after baking, shorten the bake time next time or allow them to cool fully before serving; this can sometimes resolve excess moisture retention.

Another common issue could be the flavor balance. If the squares taste a bit flat, consider adding a sprinkle of salt to enhance the sweetness or a splash of vanilla extract for added depth. Remember, ingredients can sometimes vary in potency; fresh spices can enhance flavor significantly, so opt for freshly ground cinnamon for a richer taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use flavored yogurt?

Yes, flavored yogurt will add more sweetness and a unique flavor to the squares.

→ How do I store the squares?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just cut them into squares and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.