Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares because they are not only incredibly delicious but also healthy! The combination of ripe bananas, rolled oats, and creamy yogurt creates a wonderfully moist treat that is perfect for breakfast or a snack. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to make and how great the squares turned out. I often find myself reaching for these whenever I need a quick energy boost or something sweet to enjoy. These squares never disappoint!
When I first discovered these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was on a quest for healthier snacks that didn’t compromise on flavor. The method of using ripe bananas as a natural sweetener really struck me. It ensures that the squares stay moist while providing a delicious banana flavor that shines through.
One of my favorite tips is to let the squares cool completely before cutting into them. This helps them set properly and makes for clean slices. I love topping them with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence!
Why You'll Love These Squares
- Moist and flavorful thanks to ripe bananas
- Nutritious and satisfying, perfect for any time of day
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to the moist texture of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in using ripe bananas. The more speckled and brown the bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your squares will be. This natural sweetness allows you to reduce the amount of added sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup if desired. Additionally, the bananas not only contribute sweetness but also provide essential nutrients such as potassium, which helps maintain muscle function and overall health.
Rolled oats are another crucial ingredient in this recipe. They give structure to the squares, making them hearty and fulfilling. Opt for traditional rolled oats rather than quick or instant varieties, as they absorb liquid more slowly and provide better texture. If you are gluten-sensitive, certified gluten-free oats can be used without compromising the quality or flavor of your squares.
Baking Tips for Success
When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense squares rather than the soft, cake-like texture you desire. Stir just until the mixture is combined, and a few lumps remain. You should see a thick batter that holds together well but is not completely smooth. This will ensure that your squares rise nicely while baking.
For even baking, chose a baking dish whose size matches the recipe. A square 9x9-inch dish is ideal; using a larger dish will result in thinner squares that may dry out more easily. When you check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; ideally, it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Letting the squares cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring helps maintain moisture and prevents them from breaking apart.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start to make the process easier and faster.
Ingredients for Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start making these delicious squares!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Everything
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
Bake the Squares
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Slice
Let the squares cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares.
Enjoy your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares as a tasty snack or breakfast treat!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add some chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking. You can also substitute the yogurt with dairy-free alternatives if desired.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be made ahead of time and stored to enjoy throughout the week. Once cooled, they can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer, making them a perfect snack or breakfast option on busy mornings.
To reheat, remove a square from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to enjoy, you can warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a toaster oven until heated through. This quick reheating will help restore that freshly baked taste.
Delicious Variations
You can easily customize these squares to suit your taste or dietary needs. For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or a handful of dark chocolate chips for a sweet touch. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also provide a delightful chewiness that complements the oats and bananas. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit nuts and replace yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
If you'd like to reduce the sugar content, you can replace honey with unsweetened apple sauce or decrease the amount of honey or syrup used. As long as the total liquid remains roughly the same, this adjustment won't significantly alter the texture; it will simply make your squares less sweet but still enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, you can freeze the squares for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then store in an airtight container.
→ What can I substitute for yogurt?
You can use applesauce or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer.
→ How long do these squares last?
Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator.
→ Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, simply use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
I absolutely love these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares because they are not only incredibly delicious but also healthy! The combination of ripe bananas, rolled oats, and creamy yogurt creates a wonderfully moist treat that is perfect for breakfast or a snack. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to make and how great the squares turned out. I often find myself reaching for these whenever I need a quick energy boost or something sweet to enjoy. These squares never disappoint!
Created by: Camilla Rhodes
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 9 squares
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, and salt.
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the squares cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add some chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking. You can also substitute the yogurt with dairy-free alternatives if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 5g