Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a quick and healthy snack. The combination of ripe bananas, oats, and creamy yogurt creates a delightful texture and flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Plus, they're incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping. I can whip up a batch and have a nutritious treat ready to grab anytime. These squares are a great way to start the day or enjoy as a post-workout snack.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:15:59.206Z

When I first experimented with these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was blown away by how simple yet satisfying they turned out! I wanted a snack that would be both delicious and nourishing, and this recipe exceeded my expectations. Incorporating yogurt adds a lovely creaminess, while oats provide a wholesome base that keeps the squares filling.

I also discovered that using overripe bananas not only enhances the sweetness but helps bind the ingredients together beautifully. It's a wonderful way to reduce food waste while enjoying a healthy treat that the whole family loves!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients that satisfy your sweet tooth
Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips
Great for meal prep and on-the-go snacking

      

Key Ingredients and Their Importance

The star ingredients in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are ripe bananas, oats, and yogurt. Ripe bananas not only add natural sweetness, but their natural moisture also enhances the overall texture of the squares. The oats contribute a hearty chewiness that balances the creaminess of the yogurt, making each square satisfying and wholesome. Using rolled oats instead of instant oats ensures better texture; they hold their shape during baking, resulting in a more robust finished product.

Plain yogurt plays a crucial role by adding creaminess and a slight tang, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of bananas and honey. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using almond or coconut yogurt, which can offer a similar consistency and flavor profile. Just ensure that any alternative you choose is unsweetened to maintain balanced flavors in the final product.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish. Start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark; the squares should be set in the center and have golden edges. If they jiggle in the middle, give them an additional 5 minutes. The squares may appear a bit soft when you take them out, but they will firm up as they cool, creating a delightful, chewy texture that's perfect for snacking.

Letting the squares cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack prevents sogginess from condensation. If they seem a bit too soft after cooling, don’t fret! You can return them to the oven for a couple of minutes to help firm them up. This is especially helpful if you're using extra ingredients like nuts or chocolate, which can sometimes make the squares softer.

Storage and Enjoying Your Squares

Once cooled, these squares can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well, making them an excellent option for stocking your snack stash. Simply wrap individual squares in cling film and place them into a freezer bag. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a quick 15-20 seconds for a warm treat on a busy morning.

For serving, consider pairing these squares with nut butter or yogurt for extra protein. They make a delightful breakfast when sliced and topped with berries or sliced bananas. You can also drizzle a little extra honey or maple syrup on top just before serving if you crave additional sweetness. Their versatility makes them enjoyable any time of day, whether as a breakfast energy boost or a post-workout snack.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious squares:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit

Make sure all your ingredients are ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat the oven

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

Mix the wet ingredients

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

Combine the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, combining until just incorporated.

Add the extras

If desired, fold in any nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the mixture.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is set and lightly golden.

Cool and cut

Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a snack or breakfast!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. These squares store well in the fridge for several days and also freeze beautifully for longer storage.

Customizing Your Squares

The beauty of Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with add-ins to create your ideal combination. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch and healthy fats, while chocolate chips can satisfy that sweet craving. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the bananas.

You can also swap out the honey or maple syrup for agave nectar or even date syrup for a different type of sweetness. If you're trying to reduce sugars, using ripe bananas can enhance the flavor without needing as much sweetness from syrups. Just make sure to balance the moisture content if you reduce sweeteners significantly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your squares turn out too dry, you might have overbaked them or used too much oats. To remedy this, try reducing the baking time slightly or adding a tablespoon more yogurt or mashed banana next time for moisture. Keep an eye on the texture – they should be soft but set when you remove them from the oven.

On the other hand, if they turn out too gooey, ensure you accurately measured your ingredients, particularly the bananas and yogurt. Too much moisture can prevent the squares from holding together properly. If they don’t hold their shape after cooling, try baking them a bit longer next time, and check for doneness as suggested previously.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

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

→ How do I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use certified gluten-free oats.

→ What can I add to personalize the squares?

Consider adding shredded coconut, nuts, or chocolate chips to add your unique twist!