Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares whenever I'm in need of a quick, nutritious snack. They are a delightful combination of bananas and oats, providing both fiber and natural sweetness. The yogurt adds a creamy texture that elevates these squares from ordinary to extraordinary. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also hold up well in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prep. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:49:12.604Z

When I first experimented with these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was amazed by how quickly they came together and how satisfying they were. I decided to use ripe bananas, which not only sweeten the squares naturally but also add moisture that keeps them tender. The blend of yogurt and oats offers a great protein boost, making it an ideal snack option for busy days.

Another tip I've found is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them into portions. This ensures they set properly and don’t crumble when you try to slice them. I often top them with a dollop of nut butter or a drizzle of honey to make them even tastier!

        Why You Will Love These Squares
        Healthier snack option packed with fiber
Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
Creamy yogurt base adds richness

      

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is key to their appeal. The mashed bananas act as a natural binder, lending moisture, while the rolled oats provide a delightful chewiness. It's crucial to mash the bananas well—lumps can lead to uneven baking. Aim for a smooth consistency to allow even distribution throughout the mixture. If you prefer a chunkier texture, consider folding in some diced bananas after mixing the primary ingredients.

If you find your squares coming out too dense or moist, it might be due to the yogurt's consistency. Using a thicker yogurt, like Greek yogurt, can enhance the creaminess while balancing moisture levels. You can even substitute half the amount of yogurt with applesauce for a lighter version that maintains the squares’ moisture without overloading on dairy. Always check the mixture's consistency before pouring it into the baking dish.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are incredibly meal prep-friendly. Once baked and completely cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you're looking to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the squares. Slice them into portions and wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making it easy to grab a quick snack whenever needed.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen square, remove it from the freezer and let it defrost in the fridge overnight. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 20-30 seconds for a warm treat. I recommend eating them chilled or at room temperature, as this enhances their flavors and textures. Feel free to top them with a dollop of additional yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts and seeds for added nutrition and crunch!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Mix well and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, yogurt, baking powder, vanilla extract, honey, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is well combined and free of lumps.

Bake

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

Cool and Cut

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

Enjoy them fresh or store in an airtight container!

Pro Tips

For added texture, you can mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking. These squares can also be customized with spices like nutmeg or turmeric for an extra flavor kick.

Flavor Variations

This recipe is versatile, allowing for various flavor additions. Consider mixing in some chocolate chips or nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to elevate the flavor profile. These additions not only enhance taste but also provide a satisfying crunch against the creamy yogurt and soft oats. If you're looking for a different spice profile, swapping the cinnamon for nutmeg or even pumpkin spice can add a delightful twist to the flavor.

For a tropical version, you could replace half of the bananas with pineapple chunks or shredded coconut. This adds an exotic flair while still maintaining the overall balance of flavors. If you're accommodating dietary restrictions, using dairy-free yogurt can easily make these squares suitable for a vegan diet without sacrificing the creamy texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares come out too dry, it might be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; when the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean, remove them immediately. If they feel dry after cooling, it could also be related to the type of yogurt used—lower-fat yogurts can sometimes yield drier results, so opting for a full-fat version can help achieve a moister texture.

Conversely, if your squares are too moist or gooey, consider reducing the amount of yogurt slightly or increasing the oats. If you are using very ripe bananas, they can introduce extra moisture, so if the batter feels overly wet, adding an additional 1/4 cup of oats can help create a more balanced mixture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Yes, feel free to use Greek yogurt, dairy-free yogurt, or any other variety you prefer.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and can be frozen for up to three months.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use certified gluten-free oats for the recipe.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to the mixture. Vanilla extract can also be substituted with almond extract for a different flavor profile.