Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares! They’re a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients that not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also provides a nutritious treat. I often whip them up for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. The combination of ripe bananas, oats, and yogurt creates a moist texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, which is a huge bonus for someone with a busy schedule like mine. Get ready for a deliciously healthy option that you and your family will adore!
Every time I bake these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I am reminded of my childhood. My mother always encouraged healthy snacking, and this recipe is a throwback to those days, combining the goodness of bananas and oats. I remember experimenting with different add-ins, and I found that adding a handful of nuts or chocolate chips elevates the flavor even more!
The method I use keeps the squares moist and tender. The key is to mash the bananas until smooth; this prevents any chunks and ensures even distribution throughout the batter. Trust me, the results are simply divine – you’ll want to share them!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Healthy ingredients that keep you energized
- Perfectly moist and deliciously satisfying
- Easy to customize with your favorite flavors
Ingredient Insights
The star of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is undoubtedly the ripe bananas. They provide natural sweetness and moisture, which is essential for achieving that soft, cake-like texture. When selecting bananas, opt for ones that are fully ripe with plenty of brown spots. This ensures maximum flavor and sweetness. If you have overripe bananas sitting on your countertop, this recipe is a perfect opportunity to use them up!
Rolled oats are not just a filling component; they add a hearty texture that balances the creaminess of the yogurt. If you're considering a gluten-free version, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, oats absorb moisture, so they contribute to the squares' structure as they bake. Letting the batter rest for about 10 minutes before baking can help the oats soften further, resulting in a tender bite.
Baking Tips and Variations
When baking your squares, keep an eye on the time and visual cues. You'll want to take them out of the oven once they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you find that the edges start to darken before the center is fully set, you can cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-baking. This will also help maintain moisture in the squares.
These banana oat squares are incredibly versatile! Feel free to personalize them with your favorite mix-ins. For a nutty flavor, walnuts or pecans work beautifully, while chocolate chips can satisfy a sweet craving. You can also experiment with spices; adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the flavor profile. If you're looking to reduce the sweetness, you can cut back on the honey or maple syrup without compromising texture.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious squares:
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Once you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get started with baking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients
In the same bowl, add the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. If you’re using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in as well. Mix everything until just combined.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the squares to cool in the dish for 10 minutes before lifting them out with the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
These squares can be stored in an airtight container for several days!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different fruit additions or spices to tailor the flavor to your liking. They also freeze well, so consider making a double batch!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares store well for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature, making them an excellent grab-and-go snack or breakfast option. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just allow them to cool completely after baking, then cut into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or pop one in the microwave for a quick reheat.
If you're making these squares for a specific event or week ahead, try preparing the batter the night before. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and simply pour it into the baking dish when ready to bake. This lets the flavors meld and can enhance the overall taste of the squares.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares warm for an inviting treat. I love adding a dollop of yogurt on top or a drizzle of honey just before serving for an irresistible finish. Accompanied by fresh fruit like berries or slices of banana, they turn into a wholesome breakfast that feels indulgent yet nutritious.
For a more decadent spin, consider pairing the squares with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream as a delightful dessert. This combination adds a creamy contrast to the chewy squares, making them a family favorite. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for an extra crunch!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute the yogurt?
Yes, you can use any type of yogurt, including dairy-free alternatives!
→ How can I add protein to this recipe?
You can mix in protein powder or top them with nut butter before serving for an extra boost.
→ What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup work well as alternatives to honey.
→ How should I store these squares?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer freshness.
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
I absolutely love these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares! They’re a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients that not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also provides a nutritious treat. I often whip them up for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. The combination of ripe bananas, oats, and yogurt creates a moist texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, which is a huge bonus for someone with a busy schedule like mine. Get ready for a deliciously healthy option that you and your family will adore!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
In the same bowl, add the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. If you’re using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in as well. Mix everything until just combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the squares to cool in the dish for 10 minutes before lifting them out with the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different fruit additions or spices to tailor the flavor to your liking. They also freeze well, so consider making a double batch!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 5g