Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup milk (any type); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I often find myself searching for a snack that’s both healthy and satisfying, and these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares fit the bill perfectly. With the sweetness of ripe bananas and the wholesome goodness of oats, they’re a delightful way to indulge without the guilt. Plus, they come together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze! I love how versatile they are—enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. Trust me, you’ll want to keep these on repeat in your kitchen!

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:16:25.910Z

Every time I make these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I'm reminded of the simple joys of cooking. The recipe came to me during a busy week when I needed a nutritious option to grab on the go. I found that using mashed bananas not only sweetens the squares naturally but also keeps them moist, ensuring they don't dry out in the oven. This little tip has made a world of difference in texture!

One of my favorite aspects of these squares is their adaptability. You can add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips based on what you have on hand, which makes every batch a unique creation. Perfect for experimenting, I learned that swapping in different spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas for a healthier treat
Quick to prepare, making them great for busy mornings
Versatile base – add your favorite nuts or spices for customization

      

The Importance of Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is crucial in achieving the natural sweetness and moisture in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. The sugars in ripe bananas break down, making them sweeter and creamier, which enhances the overall flavor of the squares without the need for excessive sweeteners. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots; they are at peak ripeness for baking. If your bananas aren't ripe enough, you can speed up the process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or so.

In addition to sweetness, ripe bananas contribute to a softer texture. They act as a binding agent that holds the ingredients together while keeping the squares moist. If you're in a pinch and only have unripe bananas, you can bake them at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes to speed up the ripening process, resulting in a more appropriate consistency for this recipe.

Customizing Your Squares

The beauty of these squares lies in their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to introduce a delightful crunch. You can also incorporate chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds like chia or flax for added nutrition. Mix-ins can be added during the final folding step with the dry ingredients. Just be cautious not to overmix, as this could lead to dense squares instead of a light and fluffy texture.

If you’re looking to make these squares vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup and use a plant-based yogurt. Additionally, using almond milk or coconut milk can also elevate the flavor while keeping it dairy-free. Experimenting with spices like nutmeg or ginger can give these squares a unique twist based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful squares:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Prepare the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine and Bake

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out and slicing into squares. Enjoy!

These squares are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different types of yogurt or add ins like chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To store your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them for a week. Just remember, refrigeration may slightly change their texture, making them denser but still enjoyable. If you're making a larger batch, consider freezing your squares for later enjoyment. Simply wrap each piece 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 eat a frozen square, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for an hour. For a warm treat, you can reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through, which revitalizes the softness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are incredibly adaptable and can be enjoyed at various times of the day. For a quick breakfast, serve them warm with a smear of almond butter or a dollop of yogurt on top for added protein. Drizzle some honey or maple syrup on the side for a sweeter morning treat. You can also pair them with fresh fruits like berries or sliced peaches to enhance the flavor and nutritional profile.

For an afternoon snack or a post-workout boost, try cutting the squares into smaller bites and serving them alongside a smoothie or a glass of plant-based milk. They make a great energy snack, especially with some added nut butter or seeds sprinkled on top. If you are feeling indulgent, serve them as a dessert by topping them with Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a deliciously balanced way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free oats?

Absolutely! Just make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats to ensure they're safe.

→ How can I make these squares vegan?

You can replace yogurt with a non-dairy alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes! They freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store in an airtight container.

→ How do I know when they're done baking?

The squares are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges start pulling away from the pan.