Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares during lazy weekend mornings. They are incredibly quick to whip up, and the mix of creamy yogurt with ripe bananas creates such a satisfying snack or breakfast option. Each square is moist, and I often customize them with a handful of nuts or chocolate chips for that extra pop of flavor! Plus, they're healthy enough to enjoy guilt-free, making them a fantastic choice for any time of the day.
When I first experimented with Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was amazed at how easy it was to combine healthy ingredients into such a delicious treat. I loved the balance between the oats and the yogurt, which not only adds moisture but also a delightful tang. My kids can’t get enough of these squares, especially when I sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top!
I discovered that letting the squares cool completely before cutting them makes a significant difference in texture – they hold together beautifully and are easy to store. I recommend trying these with a dollop of nut butter on top for an added treat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Healthy yet satisfying, perfect for breakfast or a snack
- Easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins
- Great way to use up overripe bananas
Tips for Perfect Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Ensure your bananas are very ripe before using them in this recipe; they should be speckled and soft, which sweetens the squares naturally and enhances their moisture. If you don't have overly ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag at room temperature for a day or two. This natural sweetness plays a pivotal role in the flavor profile of the squares.
When measuring your rolled oats, it's important to use the correct technique to avoid ending up with too much or too little. I recommend spooning the oats into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife rather than scooping straight from the container. This ensures that your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares maintain the right texture without becoming too dense.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These squares are incredibly versatile and can be served warm or cold. I love pairing them with a dollop of yogurt on top for breakfast, or you can slice them up and serve with fresh fruit for a delightful snack. They also pair wonderfully with a drizzle of nut butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon, adding additional layers of flavor and texture.
If you're in the mood for a twist, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix. You can also swap out the maple syrup for agave syrup or even coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile. For a protein boost, toss in a scoop of your favorite protein powder or use a plant-based yogurt if you're looking for a dairy-free alternative.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create 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 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit
Combine these ingredients to create your squares!
Instructions
Follow these 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 pan with parchment paper.
Mix the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Add the dry ingredients
Stir in the rolled oats and baking powder until just mixed. If using, fold in any optional ingredients such as nuts or chocolate chips.
Bake the squares
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and cut
Let the squares cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack, then cut into squares.
Now enjoy your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares!
Pro Tips
- For a richer flavor, try using a mix of half plain yogurt and half Greek yogurt. Additionally, adding chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the taste significantly.
Storing and Freezing
To keep your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes them not only a great make-ahead option but also a convenient grab-and-go snack. Just be sure to keep them separated with parchment paper if stacking to avoid sticking, as they can be quite moist.
If you want to store them for longer, these squares freeze beautifully. Once cut into pieces, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen in the microwave for a quick and tasty treat.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares turn out too dry, it could be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them after 20 minutes, and check for that golden top and a toothpick test. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, it needs more time; if it comes out clean, it's time to take them out. Adjust baking time based on your oven's peculiarities, as every oven is different.
Conversely, if they end up too mushy, consider reducing the number of bananas slightly or adding a few extra oats next time. This will help achieve a more balanced texture and prevent the squares from becoming overly dense. Experimenting with the ratios can yield your perfect batch!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
Yes, you can substitute bananas with applesauce or pureed pumpkin for a different taste!
→ How do I store the leftovers?
Store the squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze these squares?
Absolutely! These squares freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
→ What can I use as a substitute for honey?
If you're looking for alternatives, agave syrup or maple syrup works perfectly as a substitute for honey.
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
I absolutely love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares during lazy weekend mornings. They are incredibly quick to whip up, and the mix of creamy yogurt with ripe bananas creates such a satisfying snack or breakfast option. Each square is moist, and I often customize them with a handful of nuts or chocolate chips for that extra pop of flavor! Plus, they're healthy enough to enjoy guilt-free, making them a fantastic choice for any time of the day.
Created by: Amber Walsh
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 squares
What You'll Need
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 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until thoroughly combined.
Stir in the rolled oats and baking powder until just mixed. If using, fold in any optional ingredients such as nuts or chocolate chips.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the squares cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack, then cut into squares.
Extra Tips
- For a richer flavor, try using a mix of half plain yogurt and half Greek yogurt. Additionally, adding chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the taste significantly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 25mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g