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 rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a quick and healthy snack. The combination of ripe bananas, oats, and yogurt not only creates a delightful texture but also packs the squares with nutritious benefits. Whether you're looking for a post-workout snack or just something to satisfy your sweet tooth, these squares are perfect. With only a handful of simple ingredients, I find that whipping them up is a breeze and the end result is always a hit with family and friends.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:40:21.598Z

When I first made these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I didn’t expect them to be such a crowd-pleaser. The natural sweetness of the bananas pairs perfectly with the creamy yogurt and hearty oats. I’ve made them multiple times, adjusting the sweetness each time, and found that ripe bananas are definitely the key. Not only do they enhance flavor, but they also ensure the squares hold together nicely.

I love experimenting with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, but I always come back to the classic recipe. These squares are ideal for meal prep as they store well in the fridge. Just pop one in your bag for a quick, energizing snack during the day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender texture thanks to ripe bananas
Packed with nutrients from oats and yogurt
Easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins

      

Ingredient Significance

The foundation of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in the combination of oats and yogurt. Oats not only provide a hearty texture but also add soluble fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full longer. Using rolled oats is essential here; they yield the right chewiness and absorb the moisture nicely without becoming mushy during baking. If you’re short on rolled oats, quick oats can be used, but I recommend sticking with rolled for the best results.

Ripe bananas play a critical role, serving as both a natural sweetener and a binding agent. The browner the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your squares will be. If you're not able to use ripe bananas, you might opt for apple sauce as a substitute, but it might alter the flavor profile. Mixing in some lemon juice with applesauce can enhance the overall taste.

Baking Techniques

When preheating the oven, ensure it reaches the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C) before placing the baking dish inside. An adequately preheated oven helps your squares rise properly and bake evenly. To check if your squares are done baking, look for a golden-brown top with slightly domed edges and a firm center. Inserting a toothpick should come out clean, ensuring they're completely set.

Cooling is another important step that shouldn’t be rushed. Allowing the squares to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan helps them firm up, making them easier to cut without crumbling. If you find they stick to the pan, a quick run of a butter knife along the edges usually helps release them without damage.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully, allowing you to enjoy them later. For freezing, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for an hour or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

When it comes to serving, these squares are incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed warm or cold and make an excellent addition to breakfast alongside a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack. Consider topping them with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds to elevate the flavors. You can also mix in flavors like cinnamon or cocoa powder into the batter for a different twist.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious squares:

For the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

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

You can also add optional ingredients like nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish (8x8 inches) or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Everything

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden and set.

Cool and Cut

Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift out and cut into squares.

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

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding cinnamon or cocoa powder for a different flavor profile. You can also top the squares with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt when serving.

Flavor Variations

To customize your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, consider adding different mix-ins such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. Adjusting the amount of sweetener based on your preference—especially when you add sweet mix-ins—can help balance the flavors. For those who enjoy a hint of spice, a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can complement the bananas beautifully.

If you're looking for a more tropical twist, try incorporating shredded coconut and chopped pineapple into the mix. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful texture. You can also experiment with nut butters to add richness; just be mindful of adjusting the liquid content slightly to maintain the proper batter consistency.

Adaptations for Dietary Needs

For a gluten-free version, simply opt for gluten-free oats, ensuring that they are processed in a facility free from cross-contamination. This small switch allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the same deliciousness. Additionally, you can use almond yogurt or soy yogurt for a dairy-free alternative while still retaining the needed moisture and flavor for the squares.

If you prefer a sugar-free option, try using mashed dates or a sugar substitute designed for baking, such as erythritol, to sweeten your squares. When using sugar substitutes, always check the packaging for the equivalent measurement to ensure that your squares maintain the right texture and sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use dairy-free yogurt or applesauce for a different flavor and texture.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the squares?

Absolutely! Just wrap them individually or store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to the recipe?

You can add nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.