Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a quick and healthy snack. The combination of oats and yogurt creates a deliciously moist texture, while ripe bananas add natural sweetness. Not only are they easy to whip up, but they also make for a perfect breakfast or a midday treat. I often enjoy them topped with a drizzle of honey or nut butter, making them even more satisfying. These squares are a great way to use up overripe bananas, ensuring nothing goes to waste in my kitchen!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:55:12.761Z

When I first experimented with Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was amazed at how simple yet incredibly satisfying they turned out. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in letting the oats soak in the yogurt, which creates a wonderfully tender bite. I also discovered that using very ripe bananas not only enhances the flavor but also allows me to reduce added sugars significantly, making these squares healthier!

One of my favorite tips is to add chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips to the batter. They add a delightful crunch and richness that complements the soft squares beautifully. This recipe is versatile, allowing for endless variations based on what I have on hand. I’ve even substituted different fruits, and they’ve all turned out wonderfully!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Nutritious and filling snack that satisfies sweet cravings
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Versatile recipe allows for creative add-ins and substitutions

      

Mastering the Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is all about the balance between wet and dry ingredients. The ripe bananas provide moisture, while the rolled oats give structure. If you prefer a softer square, try reducing the baking time slightly. Conversely, for a firmer texture, a few extra minutes in the oven can help. Keep an eye on the edges; they should turn a lovely golden brown, signaling that the squares are ready to come out.

Also, let your ingredients come to room temperature before mixing. Cold Greek yogurt can lead to clumping, preventing a smooth batter. If you're using honey, warming it slightly will help it blend seamlessly into the mixture, ensuring even sweetness throughout the squares. A consistent batter will yield a uniform texture and help avoid any raw spots.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The Greek yogurt in this recipe is not just a flavorful addition; it plays a crucial role in binding the ingredients together, providing protein, and contributing to the moistness of the squares. If you want a dairy-free option, use almond, coconut, or soy yogurt. Just be sure to select a variety that is unsweetened to maintain the recipe's original flavor balance.

For those looking to reduce sugar, feel free to cut down on the honey or maple syrup. You can replace half the sweetener with unsweetened applesauce for added moisture and a hint of flavor. Alternatively, adding chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, or dried fruit can enhance both flavor and texture while allowing you to reduce the overall sweetness.

Storing and Serving Tips

Once baked, allow the squares to cool completely before storing. If you're planning to save some for later, you can stack them in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper, to prevent sticking. Stored properly, they will last for about a week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to three months for quick snacks or breakfast on the go. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

For an extra indulgent treat, serve the squares warm with a dollop of yogurt on top and a drizzle of honey or your favorite nut butter. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit, adding a refreshing contrast to the softness of the squares. Experiment with different toppings to find your perfect combination!

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is just combined.

Bake the Squares

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown 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 transferring them to a wire rack. Once cool, slice into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts, dried fruits, or dark chocolate chips to the batter. This recipe is also easily doubled if you want to make a larger batch!

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the flavor of your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares to match your preferences. For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut or chopped pineapple. You can also incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced profile. If you're a fan of chocolate, consider folding in cocoa powder into the batter or adding chocolate chips for a rich touch.

Adding nuts or seeds not only improves the texture but also increases nutritional benefits. Walnuts, pecans, or chia seeds can give added crunch and extra healthy fats, making your squares even more satisfying.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue when making these squares is that they can turn out too dry if overbaked. To avoid this, check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean but not completely dry. Underbaking can lead to a gooey texture, but this is easily fixable by returning the pan to the oven for a few more minutes.

If you find that your squares are not rising, ensure that your baking powder is fresh. Old baking powder can lead to flat centers. Additionally, mixing the batter only until just combined is crucial; overmixing can lead to dense squares.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

It's best to use rolled oats for this recipe, as they provide a better texture. Instant oats may make the squares too mushy.

→ How should I store the squares?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

→ Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use regular yogurt or even dairy-free yogurt alternatives to achieve a similar texture.

→ Can I make these squares vegan?

Yes! Replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.