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; 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips or nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a healthy and delicious snack that’s perfect for any time of the day. Packed with wholesome ingredients, these squares are incredibly easy to whip up and a great way to use up overripe bananas. The creamy yogurt combined with oats creates a moist texture, while the bananas add natural sweetness. Experimenting with the flavors and adding nuts or chocolate chips is always fun; these squares never last long in my house!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:58:12.647Z

When I first made these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple and satisfying they were. Using ripe bananas ensures maximum sweetness and moisture without needing too much added sugar. I discovered that letting the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking helps the oats absorb the yogurt, leading to a perfectly tender texture.

I've also played around with different mix-ins, like walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon, which elevate the flavor profile. These squares are great for meal prep, and I love having them ready to grab when I'm on the go!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling snack option
Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
Customizable with your favorite add-ins
Perfect for breakfast on busy mornings

      

The Role of Oats

Oats are the foundation of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, providing not just substance but also a wealth of nutritional benefits. Rolled oats are particularly effective in adding fiber to your snacks, which helps to keep you full longer and supports digestive health. When oats are baked, they absorb moisture from the other ingredients, creating a deliciously chewy texture that perfectly complements the creamy yogurt and sweet bananas.

Be sure to use rolled oats, as quick oats can become mushy in this recipe and may not yield the same satisfying texture. If you want to boost the fiber even further, consider using steel-cut oats, though you'll need to adjust the baking time since they require longer to soften when cooked.

Substitutions and Customizations

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. If you're out of honey, feel free to substitute it with agave nectar, or for a vegan option, maple syrup is an excellent choice. You can also adjust the level of sweetness depending on your preference; I recommend starting with less sweetener and tasting the batter before baking to ensure it meets your taste.

Different flavor profiles can be achieved by incorporating spices or zests. For instance, adding a pinch of nutmeg or a teaspoon of orange zest can elevate the flavor complexity. If you opt for chocolate chips or nuts, using dark chocolate can add a rich contrast to the sweetness of the bananas.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to mix everything well for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious squares:

Preheat the oven

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

Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine the mixtures

Add the dry oat mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts at this stage.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and cut

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

Store any leftover squares in an airtight container in the fridge.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mixture. Feel free to experiment with spices such as nutmeg or adding some cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist!

Storage Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The squares may become denser over time, but they will still retain their moist texture thanks to the yogurt. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, which will bring back their softness and warmth.

For longer storage, consider freezing the squares. Cut them into portions and wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Serving Suggestions

These squares make for an incredibly versatile snack option. They can be served warm or cold, as a breakfast item paired with yogurt, or even as a wholesome dessert with a scoop of ice cream on top. Garnishing them with a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of honey can add an appealing touch.

For a more substantial meal, consider crumbling the squares over a bowl of oatmeal or yogurt. This not only adds texture but also boosts the nutritional content of your breakfast. They are also perfect for a snack on-the-go, making them ideal for busy days when you need something quick yet nourishing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free oats?

Yes, gluten-free rolled oats work perfectly in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before enjoying.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can substitute yogurt with applesauce or any dairy-free alternative.