Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular); 1 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares because they are a deliciously healthy snack that feels like dessert. The creamy yogurt pairs perfectly with the sweetness of ripe bananas and the nutty flavor of oats. They hold together beautifully, making them perfect for packing in lunch boxes or enjoying as a quick treat during the day. Plus, they are easy to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients. I'm always thrilled to see how quickly they disappear in our house!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:19:23.023Z

When I first experimented with making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I wanted to create something that combined health and indulgence. Using ripe bananas as a natural sweetener really made a difference in flavor and texture, and I was pleasantly surprised by how creamy the yogurt made these bars. I found that letting them cool completely before cutting led to cleaner squares, which is a tip I now always follow!

Every time I bake these, I am reminded of the perfect balance of flavors. The oats add a lovely texture, while the yogurt keeps everything moist. I often play around with mix-ins, like nuts or dark chocolate chips, to make them extra special. They are a fantastic treat for anyone looking for a wholesome snack!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious yet indulgent, satisfying both cravings and health goals.
Versatile recipe that adapts well to seasonal ingredients.
Perfect make-ahead snack for busy mornings or afternoon cravings.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the moist texture of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in the ripe bananas. They provide natural sweetness and moisture, allowing you to use less added sweetener. When selecting your bananas, make sure they are heavily speckled with brown spots; this indicates they are at peak ripeness for baking purposes. If you only have slightly ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a couple of days.

The yogurt is not only a crucial source of creaminess but also contributes to the protein content of these squares. Greek yogurt is thicker and will yield a denser texture, while regular yogurt will make the squares slightly lighter. Feel free to opt for dairy alternatives such as coconut yogurt or almond yogurt for a vegan variation. Just ensure they are plain and unsweetened to maintain the right flavor profile.

Tips for Perfect Squares

When preparing the baking dish, lining it with parchment paper is essential for easy removal. Ensure that the parchment overhangs slightly on two sides, which allows you to lift the cooled squares out effortlessly. This small step can save a lot of hassle when cutting the squares, preventing them from breaking apart. Use a sharp knife for even cuts, and be gentle to maintain the integrity of the squares.

Baking time is key; start checking your squares around 20 minutes. If they are not quite set, give them an additional 5 minutes, but be careful not to overbake. Overbaking can dry them out, leading to a less enjoyable texture. The squares should have a slightly golden top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean with a few moist crumbs.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit

That's all you need to create these delicious squares!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your 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 wet ingredients

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

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Mix until evenly distributed.

Combine all mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. If using, stir in additional mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for around 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the mixture before baking. You can also replace half of the oats with quinoa for a different texture and nutritional boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend their life, store them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. They also freeze beautifully. Simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, making them an excellent option for batch cooking. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge for a quick and easy snack.

If you find that your squares have dried out slightly after freezing, a quick reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can restore their moistness and make them taste freshly baked. This ensures you can enjoy a delicious snack any time without the hassle of starting from scratch.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize these squares by incorporating additional mix-ins. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, will not only add a delightful crunch but also provide healthy fats. If you are a chocolate lover, mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a more indulgent treat that's still nutritious. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also enhance the flavor and provide a chewy texture, making these squares even more satisfying.

For an added twist, spice up the flavor by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredient mixture. This will impart a warm aroma and make these squares even more enjoyable, especially during cooler months. Alternatively, try swapping the honey or maple syrup for a nut butter like almond or peanut for a richer taste and a boost of protein.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw and mash them before using. They may add a bit more moisture, so you may want to slightly reduce the yogurt.

→ How long can I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I customize the add-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite nuts, seeds, or even a scoop of protein powder.

→ What's the best way to cut the squares?

Once they're completely cooled, use a sharp knife to cut cleanly, or use a pizza cutter for even squares.