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; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love whipping up these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares when I need a quick and healthy snack. They are delightfully easy to make, with ripe bananas adding natural sweetness and oats providing a hearty texture. Each bite is packed with nutrition, thanks to the yogurt that also lends a creaminess, making them a perfect breakfast option or afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they require minimal ingredients and can be ready in under an hour, making them ideal for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:31:11.810Z

When I first tried making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were while delivering on flavor and nutrition. The combination of oats, yogurt, and bananas created a surprisingly moist texture that I didn't expect. I’ve since perfected my method by mashing the bananas well and letting the batter rest before baking, which enhances the flavor and texture.

One of my favorite variations is to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or some dark chocolate chips to the mix. Doing this elevates the whole snack experience! Plus, I usually make a larger batch and freeze some for those days when I need something quick but still healthy.

        Why You Will Love These Squares
        Moist and chewy texture packed with wholesome oats
Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, no added sugars!
Versatile recipe that can be customized with nuts or chocolate

      

The Role of Bananas

Ripe bananas are the heart of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, contributing both moisture and natural sweetness. The darker the bananas, the better—they should ideally be spotted and well-ripened to ensure maximum flavor. If you're at the point of having overripe bananas, this is a fantastic way to put them to good use rather than tossing them out.

Apart from sweetness, bananas help bind the ingredients together, replacing the need for eggs in this recipe. This can be especially helpful for those following a vegan diet. Make sure to mash them well; lumps can lead to inconsistent texture throughout your squares. I often use a fork or a potato masher for a smooth consistency.

The Versatility of Oats

The use of rolled oats not only brings a chewy texture but also adds substantial dietary fiber, which can help keep you feeling full longer. Oats are also naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, as long as you verify that your oats are certified gluten-free.

If you want to modify the square's texture, consider swapping half of the rolled oats with quick oats. While quick oats yield a softer texture, rolled oats maintain a pleasantly hearty chew. Regardless of your choice, be sure to allow the oats to soak up moisture for at least 10 minutes before baking; this makes for a much more cohesive square.

Customizing Your Squares

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are a blank canvas for adding your personal touch. Consider mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or almonds would bring a satisfying crunch, while dark chocolate chips can cater to those with a sweet tooth. Just don't exceed 1/2 cup of additions to keep a good balance.

For a different flavor profile, incorporate spices like nutmeg or cardamom to complement the cinnamon. You can also use flavored yogurt, such as vanilla or coconut, to enhance the overall taste. If you're looking to reduce sugar, feel free to cut the honey or maple syrup by half—this won’t drastically affect the final product, especially with the natural sweetness of the bananas.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Main Ingredients

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

Optional Add-ins

You can add nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor!

Instructions

How to Make Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking pan (8x8 inches) with parchment paper.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir in oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy these squares warm or store them in an airtight container for up to a week!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, mix in chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips before baking. These squares freeze well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them later.

Storage Tips

Once your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are completely cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, for longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which extends their freshness to about a week. The cold will help maintain their moisture and prevent any unpleasant texture changes.

For even more prolonged storage, these squares freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours or pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Serving Suggestions

These squares are versatile enough to serve as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying snack any time of day. Try pairing them with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of your favorite nut butter for extra creaminess and protein. Fresh fruit on the side can elevate the meal, adding freshness and a splash of color.

For an impressive brunch offering, cut them into smaller squares and serve them on a platter alongside coffee or tea. They can also be enjoyed as an energy booster during workouts; just grab a square before hitting the gym, and you’ll benefit from the slow-releasing energy from the oats.

Troubleshooting

If your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares seem too crumbly after baking, it’s likely that they lacked enough moisture. This can happen if the bananas were not ripe enough or if you reduced the sweetener too much. For next time, ensure your bananas are very ripe and consider adding an extra tablespoon of yogurt or a splash of milk for a moister result.

On the flip side, if you find your squares excessively moist or underbaked, it might be worth extending the baking time by a few minutes. Keep a close eye on them, especially around the 20-minute mark, and test with a toothpick. It should come out clean when they are perfectly baked, with light golden edges.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer.

→ How do I store the squares?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I use overripe bananas?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect as they add more natural sweetness.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.