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; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Optional: chocolate chips or nuts for topping

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Plates

I absolutely love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a healthy snack or dessert. They are incredibly easy to prepare and use ingredients I usually have at home, like ripe bananas, oats, and yogurt. The combination creates a soft, chewy texture that's full of flavor, making it a favorite among my family and friends. Whether served as a quick breakfast or a delightful treat, these squares never fail to impress while being wholesome and nutritious!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:22:11.846Z

When I first experimented with banana oat yogurt squares, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs perfectly with the creamy yogurt, while the oats add a hearty texture that keeps you satisfied. I found that using Greek yogurt not only enhances the protein content but also adds a tangy depth that balances the sweetness beautifully.

After making these squares multiple times, I discovered a simple trick: letting the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking allows the oats to absorb some moisture, resulting in a fluffier texture. This little tip takes the squares from good to great, making them a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Healthy and satisfying snack option
Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
Packed with fiber and protein

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in the ripe bananas, which not only provide natural sweetness but also moisture and binding properties. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, enhancing the cake-like texture. If you don't have ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or so. This ensures they deliver the sweetness and flavor we’re after in this recipe.

Greek yogurt is another crucial ingredient, contributing creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the bananas. It also adds protein to the squares, making them more satisfying as a snack or breakfast option. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute with coconut yogurt or any non-dairy yogurt, but check the consistency, as some yogurts tend to be thinner, which could alter the final texture.

Baking Techniques

When mixing the batter, be careful not to overmix once you've combined the wet and dry ingredients. Just stir until everything is evenly incorporated; this keeps the squares tender rather than tough. The baking powder is vital here, helping the squares rise and giving them a light, airy quality instead of a dense, heavy texture. You’ll want to closely monitor them in the last few minutes of baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges, indicating they are perfectly cooked.

Letting the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing is crucial. This resting period allows the bars to firm up, making it easier to cut them into neat squares without them crumbling. If you prefer, you can serve them warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of yogurt on top for an extra touch.

Ingredients

For the Squares

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Optional: chocolate chips or nuts for topping

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Optional Add-ins

If desired, fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Pour Batter

Pour the banana oat mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy warm or let them cool completely for storage!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using almond or coconut extract instead of vanilla. Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be made ahead of time and stored for a quick snack throughout the week. Once cooled, slice them and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you discover you have extras, you can freeze them for future use. Just place a layer of parchment paper between the squares in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking, and they will last for about three months.

For reheating, simply microwave a square for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. If you prefer a crispier texture after thawing, pop them in the toaster oven for a few minutes instead. This method refreshes the bars and brings back their delicious chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These squares are versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. For a delightful breakfast, try adding a layer of nut butter on top, such as almond or peanut butter, which pairs wonderfully with the flavors of banana and oats. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of yogurt for added texture and flavor.

If you're feeling creative, consider customizing the squares with other mix-ins like shredded coconut, chia seeds, or dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins. Each variation can add a new dimension to the flavor profile and is a great way to use up pantry items you might have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, instant oats can be used, but the texture will be different. The squares may turn out softer.

→ How do I store the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?

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

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative. Just ensure it's thick enough to give structure.

→ How do I know when they are done?

They should be golden brown around the edges, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.