Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
I love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares because they are the perfect blend of healthy and delicious! With ripe bananas and creamy yogurt, these squares offer a delightful texture that satisfies both a sweet tooth and a nutritional craving. I often whip these up as a quick snack for the week or a wholesome dessert to enjoy with friends. They’re easy to prepare and bake up beautifully, making them a fantastic option for busy days when I still want something nutritious and tempting.
When I first tried making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I was amazed by how simple and satisfying they are. The bananas provide natural sweetness while the yogurt keeps the squares moist and flavorful. One tip I learned is to use very ripe bananas for the best taste and texture.
After countless experiments with ingredients, I discovered that adding a pinch of cinnamon takes these squares to the next level. It complements the banana flavor perfectly and gives a warm, comforting aroma. Now, they’re a staple in my kitchen!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas for great flavor
- High in fiber and protein, making them a healthy snack
- Quick and easy to prepare, a perfect family treat
Understanding the Ingredients
The foundation of these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares lies in the use of ripe bananas, which not only impart natural sweetness but also contribute moisture to the mixture. The more overripe the bananas, the more flavor and sweetness they will bring. When selecting bananas, I suggest opting for those with plenty of brown spots, as they will yield the best results in terms of taste and texture.
Using rolled oats instead of quick oats is crucial here, as they maintain their structure during baking. This gives the bars a chewy texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. Additionally, incorporating plain yogurt not only adds creaminess but is also a great source of protein and probiotics, enhancing the nutritional content.
Baking Tips for Perfect Squares
When mixing the wet ingredients, use a whisk or fork to achieve a smooth consistency, ensuring that the bananas are thoroughly combined with the yogurt and liquids. This helps to prevent any clumps of banana from appearing in the finished product. Consider adding a bit more almond milk if the mixture seems too thick; it should pour easily into the baking dish.
Keep an eye on the baking time—ovens can vary. You'll know the squares are ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If they appear to be browning too quickly, you can cover them lightly with foil in the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.
Ingredients
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Steps to Prepare
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 mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Add the oats
Stir in the rolled oats and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and cut
Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out and cutting into squares.
Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips before baking. You can also substitute yogurt with any plant-based option to make this recipe vegan.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares are ideal for make-ahead meals. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. If you're prepping for the week, you can also freeze them. Just wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or individually microwave for about 20-30 seconds. This makes for a quick grab-and-go snack or a healthy addition to breakfast on busy mornings.
Flavor Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with different flavors in your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. Adding a handful of chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits can take them to the next level. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute almond milk with oat or soy milk. Additionally, for a sweeter profile, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
For those wanting to reduce sugar, you can cut down on honey or maple syrup and rely more on the natural sweetness of the bananas. Remember, the ripeness of your bananas will significantly impact the overall sweetness, so adjust accordingly based on your taste preference.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free oats?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free oats for this recipe.
→ How long do these squares last?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze Banana Oat Yogurt Squares?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
→ What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute if you're looking for a vegan option.
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
I love making Banana Oat Yogurt Squares because they are the perfect blend of healthy and delicious! With ripe bananas and creamy yogurt, these squares offer a delightful texture that satisfies both a sweet tooth and a nutritional craving. I often whip these up as a quick snack for the week or a wholesome dessert to enjoy with friends. They’re easy to prepare and bake up beautifully, making them a fantastic option for busy days when I still want something nutritious and tempting.
What You'll Need
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 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 mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, baking powder, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Stir in the rolled oats and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out and cutting into squares.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips before baking. You can also substitute yogurt with any plant-based option to make this recipe vegan.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g