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 plain yogurt; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love whipping up a batch of Banana Oat Yogurt Squares for an easy and nutritious snack. These bars are a perfect blend of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and hearty oats, making them ideal for breakfast or an afternoon treat. The best part is that they are quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dark chocolate. Whether you need a grab-and-go option or something to satisfy your sweet tooth, these squares are sure to impress!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:13:11.288Z

When I first experimented with Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was amazed by how easy it was to create something so wholesome and delicious. The combination of mashed bananas and yogurt not only gives these squares great flavor but also keeps them moist. I remember adding a handful of walnuts one day, and it turned into a delightful crunch that worked beautifully with the soft oats.

What surprised me most was how versatile these squares can be. One time, I included a sprinkling of cinnamon, and it elevated the flavor profile immensely. The key is to ensure your bananas are perfectly ripe, as they provide the natural sweetness that makes these bars irresistible!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Healthy and filling, perfect for on-the-go snacking
Sweetened naturally with ripe bananas, no added sugars
Great texture from oats and a hint of creaminess from yogurt

      

Perfectly Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is crucial for this recipe, as they lend a natural sweetness and contribute to the bars' moist texture. Look for bananas that have brown spots; these are the best for mashing. If you don't have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag overnight, which traps the ethylene gas they emit, helping them to ripen faster.

For an added flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the banana mixture. These spices complement the sweetness of the bananas beautifully and can elevate the overall flavor profile of your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares.

Choosing Your Yogurt Wisely

The type of yogurt you choose can significantly affect the texture and taste of your bars. While plain yogurt is perfect for this recipe, using Greek yogurt can make your squares even creamier and more protein-packed. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt, but be sure to choose a brand that’s unsweetened to maintain the natural sugars from the bananas.

If you want to infuse some flavor into your squares, consider using flavored yogurt, but keep in mind that this will alter the sweetness level. Adjust the number of bananas you use accordingly if opting for a sweeter yogurt to maintain balance in your bars.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares have cooled and been cut, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the squares; simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making them an excellent make-ahead snack option.

These squares can be enjoyed warm or cold. For an extra treat, warm them slightly in the microwave before serving and top with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey. You can also experiment with toppings, like fresh fruit or nut butter, to create a more substantial breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares.

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips

Make sure all your ingredients are ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious squares!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas and then mix in the yogurt, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt until combined.

Add Oats

Stir in the rolled oats and any optional mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips until well mixed.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing into squares.

Your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure even cooking, make sure to spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top before placing it in the oven. Check the banana oat squares a few minutes before the 30-minute mark; they should be golden brown around the edges and set in the center. If they look jiggle or undercooked, leave them in for an additional 5 minutes, but don't overbake, as this can dry them out.

For lighter, fluffier bars, you can let the batter rest for about 10 minutes after mixing in the oats. This allows the oats to absorb some moisture and expand slightly, which helps create a fluffier texture once baked.

Creative Variations

While the base recipe is fantastic as is, exploring different mix-ins or flavor profiles can make these bars even more exciting. Consider adding a tablespoon of chia seeds for added nutrition or coconut flakes for a tropical twist. Additionally, swapping half of the oats for quinoa or ground flaxseed can increase the protein and fiber content of your squares.

For those who enjoy a touch of indulgence, incorporating dark chocolate chunks or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can satisfy your sweet tooth. Just be mindful of the total sweetness, especially if you're using chocolate, and adjust the number of bananas accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dairy-free yogurt?

Absolutely! Dairy-free yogurt works great in this recipe.

→ How long do these squares last?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes! They freeze well. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

→ What can I substitute for bananas?

You could use applesauce or a mashed avocado for a different flavor profile.