Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I've really enjoyed creating a healthy yet satisfying treat with these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. They combine the wholesome goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and creamy yogurt, making a perfect snack or breakfast option. Every bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, and you can whip them up in no time! Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them regularly for yourself and your family.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:09:35.755Z

When I first made these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was surprised by how quickly they came together. I love how the oats provide a hearty texture while the bananas add natural sweetness without needing much added sugar. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use overripe bananas, minimizing food waste in our home.

Taking the time to let them cool properly enhances their flavor and texture. I often pair them with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for an extra layer of deliciousness. These bars are perfect for breakfast on the go or a post-workout snack!

        Why You'll Love These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
        Simple and healthy ingredients that satisfy your sweet cravings
Soft, chewy texture with a hint of banana flavor
Perfect for meal prep or an on-the-go snack

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares plays a crucial role in achieving the right texture and flavor. The rolled oats provide a hearty base, while the ripe bananas contribute natural sweetness and moisture. This not only enhances flavor but also helps keep the squares soft and chewy. If you're looking to control the sweetness, feel free to adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup depending on your taste preferences.

Using plain yogurt is essential for a balanced flavor profile. It adds creaminess without overpowering the banana's natural taste. Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative if you want a thicker texture and an extra boost of protein. When substituting, just ensure the consistency is similar to that of regular yogurt to prevent altering the final product's density.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When you prepare to bake these squares, make sure that your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because even baking helps achieve the desired golden edges and soft interior. If you don't have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking pan to prevent sticking, but the parchment makes for easier removal once cooled.

As you spread the batter into the pan, take care to ensure it's evenly distributed. This uniformity promotes even cooking, which is especially important when you want to avoid undercooked centers. Check the squares at the 20-minute mark to see how they’re progressing. They should turn a lovely golden brown and spring back slightly when touched. If they seem too soft at this point, bake for an additional 5 minutes before testing again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Main Ingredients

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

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to make these tasty squares!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Both Mixtures

Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and stir until well combined.

Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.

Now you can enjoy your healthy Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the mixture before baking. These squares also store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Storage and Freezing

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are perfect for meal prep! Once they’ve cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keeping them sealed will prevent them from drying out and maintain their chewy texture.

If you want to prepare a larger batch or enjoy them later, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize these squares with your favorite add-ins! Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, can add a nice crunch and an added layer of flavor. Dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, are also delightful enhancements, contributing both texture and sweetness. Just be sure to balance the textures so the squares remain chewy rather than overly dense.

For a chocolatey twist, consider mixing in a handful of dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder. These elements pair wonderfully with the bananas and oats, creating a more indulgent yet still healthy treat. If you’re looking to make them gluten-free, ensure that the oats you use are certified gluten-free and you can swap in almond flour for some of the oats to enhance the flavor and richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

While you can use instant oats, rolled oats provide a better texture for these squares.

→ How can I make these squares vegan?

You can substitute the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I freeze the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?

Yes! They freeze well. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

→ What can I serve these squares with?

Try them with a drizzle of nut butter or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor!