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; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares! They are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas balanced by the earthy notes of oats. I find that they make a great snack or satisfying breakfast, especially when I’m on the go. Made with creamy yogurt and wholesome oats, these squares are not only delicious but also are a nutritious choice for any time of day. Let’s dive into how to make this simple yet delightful recipe together!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:16:32.352Z

When I made these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for the first time, I was blown away by how simple the process was. I combined ripe bananas with creamy yogurt and wholesome oats, and the result was a soft, chewy treat that I couldn’t resist. I recommend using overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor, which really enhances the overall taste of these squares.

These squares have become a staple in my house, perfect for an easy breakfast or an afternoon snack. They also keep well in the fridge, making them a great option for meal prep. The best part? You can customize them by adding nuts, seeds, or even chocolate chips for a special touch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients that provide lasting energy
Perfectly sweet with a hint of natural banana flavor
Easy to prepare and transport for busy days

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are the ripe bananas and Greek yogurt. The bananas not only impart natural sweetness but also contribute moisture, helping to keep the squares soft and chewy. When selecting bananas, aim for ones that are fully ripe with plenty of brown spots; they will enhance the flavor without needing extra sweeteners.

Greek yogurt plays a critical role as well, bringing in creaminess while adding a protein boost, making these squares a satisfying choice for breakfast or a snack. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute with almond, coconut, or soy yogurt—just ensure they are unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors.

Techniques for Perfect Squares

To achieve the best texture, it's important to mash the bananas until completely smooth. Any lumps can disrupt the harmony of flavors and affect how well the ingredients combine. Use a fork or a potato masher for this task; a food processor works as well but can lead to over-mashing if not carefully monitored.

When mixing the dry ingredients, be sure to stir them until evenly combined to avoid clumps of baking powder in your final product. This step helps ensure an even rise and perfect texture. Incorporating the nuts at the end, if using, allows you to control how many are mixed in without risking uneven distribution.

Cooling, Serving, and Storing Tips

Once baked, allow the squares to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before lifting them out. This step is crucial, as letting them cool helps firm them up, making them easier to cut into neat squares. If you try to cut them too soon, you might end up with a crumbly mess.

These squares are perfect for meal prep; store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a quick 20-30 seconds.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 cups rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares.

Preheat the oven

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

Mix the wet ingredients

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt and honey or maple syrup, mixing until fully combined.

Combine the dry ingredients

In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.

Combine wet and dry mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.

Bake the squares

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

Cool and serve

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Enjoy these squares fresh, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for later!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or different nuts to suit your taste!

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on your preference. For a breakfast option, try serving them with a dollop of extra yogurt on top and a sprinkle of fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for added flair. It's a delightful way to elevate the dish without much effort.

If you're packing them for a snack, consider pairing the squares with nut butter or a side of fresh fruit. The combination of textures and flavors will keep you satisfied and energized throughout your busy day.

Customizing Your Squares

Feel free to customize these squares by swapping out the nuts for seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, if nut allergies are a concern. Additionally, you can mix in dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and chewiness.

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or experimenting with spices such as nutmeg or cardamom. These variations can give a unique twist to the classic banana oat flavor while keeping the recipe's integrity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your squares come out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated to maintain a light and fluffy texture. Keep an eye on the baking time; if they look dry on top before 25 minutes, do a toothpick test to check for doneness.

Conversely, if they are too crumbly, ensure that you properly measured the ingredients. Baking is a science, and even minor adjustments in ingredient ratios can lead to unexpected results. Using a digital scale for more accurate measurements can help avoid these pitfalls.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding vanilla extract, chopped dark chocolate, or even some berries for a flavor boost.