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 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond milk; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love creating recipes that combine healthiness with delicious comfort, and these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are a perfect example. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy yogurt not only results in a satisfying snack but also provides essential nutrients. I can easily whip these up for breakfast or as a mid-afternoon treat. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep as they store well in the fridge. Let's dive into this delightful recipe that’s both simple and rewarding!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:55:10.326Z

When I first experimented with these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I wanted to create a snack that was both nutritious and satisfying. The results exceeded my expectations! The natural sweetness from the ripe bananas paired with the creaminess of the yogurt creates a wonderful texture that I can’t resist. It’s a delightful, healthy alternative to store-bought snacks.

I also discovered that using rolled oats gives the squares a heartiness that’s essential for keeping me full. I've tried different toppings, but a sprinkle of cinnamon and a handful of nuts adds a lovely crunch that elevates the experience. You’ll love how easy these are to make!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients packed into a delicious snack
Easy to make, perfect for busy mornings
Can be customized with your favorite toppings
Freezes well for a convenient treat anytime

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The cornerstone of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is ripe bananas, which add natural sweetness and moisture to the dish. The ripeness of bananas can significantly affect texture. Ideally, you want bananas with a few brown spots, as they are sweeter and mash more easily. This ensures a moist and flavorful base for your squares.

Plain yogurt is another essential ingredient, lending creaminess and a slight tang that offsets the sweetness of the bananas. You can opt for Greek yogurt for thicker squares or dairy-free yogurt for a plant-based alternative. Both variations will yield delicious results while maintaining the nutritional integrity of the recipe.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When pouring the mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly is key for uniform baking. Use a spatula to smooth the top, making sure there are no air pockets. This step helps to ensure even cooking and that every square bakes to a golden brown with a soft but firm texture.

Keep an eye on the baking time; your oven's calibration can vary. Check for doneness a few minutes before the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean, indicating your squares are perfectly baked. If they seem to be browning too fast, a light cover with aluminum foil can help mitigate over-browning.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Squares

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond milk
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

Instructions

Preparation Steps:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the rolled oats and baking powder. Then, add the dry mix into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the nuts if using.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the squares to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Treat!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in seasonal fruits or swapping the nuts for seeds. These squares can also be frozen for later use
just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

Storage and Meal Prep

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares store exceptionally well in the fridge. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container, and they'll remain fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, consider wrapping individual squares in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them ideal for meal prep.

Reheating is straightforward; just pop a square in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. This quick method preserves the texture without compromising flavor, and you'll enjoy a soft and comforting treat each time.

Customizations and Variations

Feel free to tailor the recipe to your taste! Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger can complement the flavor profile beautifully. You can also incorporate ingredients like shredded coconut, dried fruits, or seeds for extra texture and nutrition. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times if introducing additional moisture from fruits or modifying the wet-to-dry ingredient ratios.

If you want to enjoy these squares warm, try serving them with a drizzle of almond butter or a dollop of yogurt on top. Fresh fruits like berries or slices of banana can also elevate each square, creating a colorful and nutritious breakfast or snack option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-dairy yogurt?

Absolutely! Any non-dairy yogurt works well in this recipe.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free oats and verify that other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup is a great alternative for those who prefer it.