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

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a quick and nutritious snack. The combination of creamy yogurt, ripe bananas, and hearty oats creates a delightful treat that not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also provides lasting energy. These squares are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups. Every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition, and I can’t resist sharing these with family and friends.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:22:08.959Z

When I first decided to make Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was looking for a healthy snack that I could enjoy without feeling guilty. The method of mixing ripe bananas with yogurt and oats not only created a moist texture but also incorporated natural sweetness that I couldn’t resist. I find using overripe bananas works best, as they mash easily and enhance the flavor.

After several attempts, I discovered that baking them at a moderate temperature ensures they cook evenly without drying out. Each square holds together beautifully, making them perfect for grabbing on the go. They truly satisfy my cravings while being loaded with goodness!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Deliciously moist with natural banana sweetness
Packed with fiber from the oats for a filling snack
Easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is the ripe bananas. They not only add natural sweetness but also contribute to the moisture and soft texture of the squares. When selecting bananas, ensure they are speckled and soft, as this indicates peak ripeness. If your bananas are still green, consider waiting a couple of days or using them in another recipe until they reach the right softness for mashing.

Plain yogurt is essential in this recipe, providing creaminess and a slight tang that balances out the sweetness from the bananas and honey. You can use Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency or non-dairy options like coconut or almond yogurt for a vegan version. The yogurt helps bind the ingredients while retaining moisture, ensuring your squares don't turn out dry.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

For even baking, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the baking dish inside. This will help achieve that golden-brown top and set the squares properly. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; the edges should appear slightly crispy, while the center remains soft and springy when lightly pressed.

Another tip is to use a smaller baking dish if you prefer thicker squares. By adjusting the baking time slightly—checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark—you can achieve a chewy texture. Just remember, thickness might require a bit more time for the centers to cook through without burning the edges.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

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

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, fold in nuts or chocolate chips to add an extra layer of flavor.

Bake

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

Cool and Cut

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm or store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your delightful Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like dried fruit or nuts to customize your squares. For a vegan version, substitute yogurt with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Allow the squares to cool completely, then cut them into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or heat them in the microwave for a quick snack.

If you plan to make these squares ahead of time for meal prep, feel free to bake them on the weekend and portion them out for easy grab-and-go snacks during the week. They also make a nutritious breakfast option when paired with some fruit or nut butter.

Variations and Customizations

While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize these squares to suit your taste. Adding fresh berries like blueberries or chopped apples can introduce a whole new flavor profile, while spices such as nutmeg or vanilla extract can elevate the taste even more. If you're feeling adventurous, consider mixing in coconut flakes or peanut butter for added richness.

Nuts and chocolate chips not only add texture but also enhance the nutritional value. Consider swapping in almonds, walnuts, or even seeds for a different crunch. Experiment with using different sweeteners; agave syrup or date syrup can be good alternatives to honey or maple syrup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely! You can substitute bananas with applesauce or even pureed pumpkin for a different flavor.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, these squares freeze well! Just wrap them individually and store them in the freezer for later enjoyment.

→ What can I serve with the squares?

Serve them with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.