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 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Vitality Kitchen

I love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a quick breakfast or snack. The combination of ripe bananas, hearty oats, and creamy yogurt not only fills me up but also satisfies my sweet tooth. Plus, these squares are incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients that are usually on hand. They bake to a golden perfection, making them an inviting treat that I can enjoy any time of the day. Trust me, once you try them, you'll be hooked.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:46:15.734Z

When I first made these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was surprised at how simple and delicious they were! I had some overripe bananas lying around and wanted to try something new. Mixing oats with yogurt created a wonderful texture that complemented the bananas perfectly.

I discovered that letting the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking allowed the oats to absorb the yogurt, resulting in moist squares. This trick really helps to enhance the flavors and gives a delightful chewiness that I absolutely love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
Versatile and can be enjoyed warm or cold
Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go snacking

Understanding the Ingredients

The success of Banana Oat Yogurt Squares depends largely on the quality of the ripe bananas you use. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your squares will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots; these will provide natural sweetness and moisture, eliminating the need for excessive added sugars.

Rolled oats are the backbone of this recipe, adding texture and fiber. Unlike quick oats, rolled oats hold their shape better and provide a satisfying chewiness. If you're aiming for a gluten-free option, make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats to ensure no cross-contamination occurs.

Perfecting Technique

When combining your wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to over-mix the batter. Stir just until combined to keep the squares from becoming dense. The resting period of 10 minutes is key, as it allows the oats to absorb some moisture and swell, resulting in a chewier texture once baked.

For baking, use a light-colored baking dish to prevent over-browning. If you notice the edges starting to get too dark while the center remains undercooked, cover the dish loosely with foil to help the middle bake through without burning the edges.

Ingredients

For the Squares

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for an extra flavor boost!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Let it sit for 10 minutes.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy warm or store in the fridge!

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

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking, or try using Greek yogurt for a thicker texture.

Storage Tips

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you prefer, you can also freeze individual squares; simply wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be thawed naturally or warmed in the microwave for a quick snack.

To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. If you like them warm, enjoy them as a comforting snack or breakfast option.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares by adding mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch, while raisins or dried cranberries provide an additional sweet bite. Just be mindful of how much you add; keep the total volume of mix-ins to about 1/2 cup to ensure proper baking.

For a twist on flavor, try adding a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter to the wet ingredients. This will enrich the squares, lending a nutty flavor and creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the bananas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture might be slightly different; rolled oats hold up better in baking.

→ How do I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can use any dairy-free yogurt if you're looking for a vegan option.