Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares whenever I'm in the mood for a healthy yet delicious snack. The combination of ripe bananas, hearty oats, and creamy yogurt creates a delightful texture that's perfect for any time of day. They're easy to prepare and make for a great meal prep option! Plus, you can customize them with your favorite add-ins, like nuts or dark chocolate chips, to elevate the flavor even further. Trust me, these little squares are irresistible!
Making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares has become a cherished weekend ritual for me. I start by mashing perfectly ripe bananas, then combine them with wholesome oats and creamy yogurt, creating a batter that's both nutritious and satisfying. The method works wonderfully because the bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring the squares stay soft and chewy.
One 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 the yogurt, creating a wonderfully cohesive texture. These squares have never failed to please my friends and family, making them a must-try for anyone looking for a tasty and healthy snack!
Why You'll Love These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
- Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and yogurt
- Hearty oats provide a satisfying texture
- Versatile with endless mix-in possibilities
The Role of Bananas and Yogurt
Ripe bananas serve as the primary sweetener in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, providing natural sugars while contributing moisture. Their creamy texture blends beautifully with Greek yogurt, creating a rich base that brings everything together. Essentially, these bananas not only sweeten the treat but also add a banana flavor that complements the oats wonderfully. Make sure to choose bananas that are well-ripened; this will enhance the sweetness and flavor profile of the final product.
Greek yogurt is another star ingredient in this recipe. It contributes to the protein content, making these squares not just a snack but a nutritious option as well. The tanginess of the yogurt balances the sweetness of the fruit and adds creaminess to the texture. When selecting yogurt, opt for a full-fat or low-fat version based on your dietary preferences, but ensure it is plain to keep the additional sugars in check.
Customizing Your Squares
One of the best features of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares is their versatility. The base recipe allows you to easily customize it with various add-ins. For instance, if you’re a fan of crunchy textures, consider adding different types of nuts like walnuts or pecans, which pair wonderfully with the flavors of banana and cinnamon. For a sweeter variant, dark chocolate chips can add a decadent touch. You can even experiment with mix-ins like dried fruits or seeds for added health benefits.
If you want to cater to specific dietary needs, there are substitutions you can make in this recipe. For example, if you're looking to reduce sugars further, you can halve the honey or maple syrup or use a sugar substitute. For a gluten-free version, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. These simple swaps can keep your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares adaptable for everyone.
Ingredients
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until combined.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the rolled oats, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla, baking powder, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
Add Mix-ins
If using, fold in chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and Cut
Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out with the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth. These squares are also great as a breakfast option when paired with fresh fruits!
Storage Tips
These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer them chilled, simply pop them in the refrigerator right after they cool. Chilling can enhance their chewy texture and meld the flavors even further, making them even more delicious.
For longer storage, you can freeze individual squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for about 15-30 seconds until warmed through. This makes them an excellent option for meal prep!
Serving Suggestions
These squares are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate your serving by drizzling a little more honey or a dollop of yogurt on top when serving. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas can create a beautiful presentation while adding a burst of freshness and flavor. You may also serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a wonderful snack break.
For a more indulgent twist, consider pairing your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares with a scoop of ice cream or yogurt. This turn transforms them into a delightful dessert, perfect for entertaining guests. The combination of warm squares with cold toppings creates a delicious contrast that is sure to impress.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap each square in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
→ What yogurt can I use for this recipe?
Plain Greek yogurt works best, but you can also use regular yogurt if you prefer a lighter texture.
→ Can I substitute the bananas?
For the best results, it's recommended to use ripe bananas. However, unsweetened applesauce can be a suitable substitute.
→ How long do these squares last?
These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
I absolutely love making these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares whenever I'm in the mood for a healthy yet delicious snack. The combination of ripe bananas, hearty oats, and creamy yogurt creates a delightful texture that's perfect for any time of day. They're easy to prepare and make for a great meal prep option! Plus, you can customize them with your favorite add-ins, like nuts or dark chocolate chips, to elevate the flavor even further. Trust me, these little squares are irresistible!
Created by: Bethany Clarke
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 12 squares
What You'll Need
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the rolled oats, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla, baking powder, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
If using, fold in chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out with the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth. These squares are also great as a breakfast option when paired with fresh fruits!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 6g