Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips or nuts

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for a wholesome breakfast or a healthy snack. The combination of oats and ripe bananas creates a delightful base, while the yogurt adds moisture and creaminess. I find that these squares are incredibly satisfying, and they come together quickly—perfect for busy mornings. Plus, they are versatile; I can add nuts or chocolate chips based on my mood. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to keep them stocked in your kitchen!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:52:07.504Z

When I first started experimenting with healthier snack options, I stumbled upon the idea of combining bananas and oats. After tweaking several recipes, I finally created these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares that are a hit with my family. What I learned is that using ripe bananas not only adds natural sweetness but also binds the mixture beautifully, resulting in a cohesive square that doesn’t crumble.

Another tip I picked up along the way is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the oats to absorb some moisture, leading to a perfectly chewy texture. Whether packed for lunch or enjoyed as an afternoon treat, these squares never disappoint!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Natural sweetness from ripe bananas without added sugars
Nutritious oats provide energy for the whole day
Easy to make and customizable with your favorite mix-ins

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the delightful texture of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in the combination of ripe bananas and Greek yogurt. The bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also create a moist texture, while the Greek yogurt contributes creaminess and a protein boost. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt, which adds a subtle coconut flavor and keeps the squares moist.

Rolled oats are the backbone of this recipe, offering fiber and energy. Make sure to use rolled oats rather than quick oats, as they absorb moisture differently and will provide a better texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free variation, certified gluten-free rolled oats work perfectly here without compromising the outcome.

Baking Tips for Perfection

Preheating the oven is crucial for an even bake, so set it to 350°F (175°C) before you start mixing ingredients. Using an 8x8 inch baking dish ensures that the squares will cook evenly; a larger dish might result in thinner squares that may dry out quickly. When baking, keep an eye on the edges—they should be golden brown, which means the squares are ready to come out. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean to confirm they are baked through.

If your squares seem too moist, it might be due to the bananas being overly ripe. In this case, consider reducing the amount of yogurt slightly to balance the moisture. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of oat flour can help absorb excess liquid without compromising the texture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them perfect for meal prep. If you'd like to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag; they’ll last for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm.

For serving, these squares can be enjoyed as is or with toppings to enhance flavor. A dollop of nut butter or a drizzle of honey can take your snack to the next level. Also, I love adding fresh fruit on top, like sliced strawberries or blueberries, for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

For the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/4 cup chocolate chips or nuts

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before transferring to a baking dish.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined. If you're using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them in gently.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes before slicing them into squares.

These squares can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like nuts, seeds, or even dried fruit to suit your taste preferences!

Visual and Textural Indicators

When mixed, the batter should have a thick and somewhat chunky consistency from the bananas and oats. It’s important to avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to denser squares. Instead, gently fold in any mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to ensure they’re evenly distributed without breaking down the structure.

After baking, let the squares cool in the pan for about ten minutes. This cooling time allows them to set, making it easier to achieve clean, perfectly cut squares without crumbling. Look for a slight bounce when you gently push on the center to gauge doneness.

Customize Your Squares

These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap in your favorite nut butter for added flavor or protein. If you're a fan of spices, a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the taste profile while also giving you a warm aroma as they bake.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, I recommend adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, which can provide a delightful contrast to the soft squares. You can also experiment with dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness without needing additional sugars.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture may vary. Rolled oats give a better chew.

→ How long can I store the squares?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these banana oat squares?

Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use regular yogurt or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a vegan option.