Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I recently discovered the perfect combination of flavors and textures in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. The creamy yogurt paired with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the hearty oats make for a delightful snack or breakfast treat. As a busy person, I love how easy they are to whip up, and they stay fresh for days. Whether I'm grabbing one on the go or savoring it with a cup of coffee, these squares always hit the spot. Give them a try, and you’ll see why they’ve become a staple in my kitchen!
Every time I make these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares, I'm reminded of how versatile and nutritious they are. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy yogurt not only creates a rich texture but also infuses the squares with moisture, preventing them from being dry. By adding oats, I ensure they’re hearty enough to satisfy hunger, making them perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
One tip I found especially useful was to let the squares cool completely before cutting them into portions. This helps them hold their shape better and makes for cleaner cuts. The balance of flavors from the bananas and yogurt is just delightful!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and satisfying breakfast or snack option
- Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins
- Perfectly sweetened with natural ingredients
Understanding the Ingredients
The combination of ripe bananas and yogurt is what truly sets these squares apart. Ripe bananas, when mashed, provide natural sweetness and moisture, while yogurt adds creaminess and a boost of protein and probiotics. Opt for plain yogurt to avoid additional sugars—this allows the flavor of the bananas to shine through. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt works wonderfully, imparting a subtly sweet flavor that complements the bananas.
Rolled oats play a crucial role in providing structure and a hearty texture to the squares. They absorb moisture and soften during baking, creating a satisfying chewiness. Make sure to use rolled oats rather than instant oats for the best texture. If you're gluten-sensitive, certified gluten-free oats are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
Tips for Perfect Baking
When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to over-mix. Stir just until combined to keep the squares light and airy. Over-mixing can lead to a denser texture, which isn't what we want for this delightful treat. After combining, look for a uniform mixture where the oats are evenly distributed among the wet ingredients.
Baking time may vary slightly based on your oven and the size of the baking dish. Keep an eye on the squares during baking; they should be golden brown on the edges and firm to the touch when done. If you're unsure, use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If you notice the tops browning too quickly, you can cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Squares:
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
With these ingredients ready, you're all set to create something delicious!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare 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 Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the oats, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Combine Both Mixtures
Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
Bake the Squares
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Cut
Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares.
Enjoy your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Squares either warm or at room temperature!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit into the batter before baking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Banana Oat Yogurt Squares store exceptionally well, making them an ideal make-ahead snack. Once cooled, you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them after cutting into squares. They will last for up to three months in the freezer—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen square, simply take it out the night before and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator, or pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up. They are also great cold, making them versatile for on-the-go breakfasts or snacks.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch, while dark chocolate chips or dried fruit can bring an extra layer of sweetness. If you prefer a tropical twist, consider incorporating shredded coconut or pineapple chunks for a fun change-up.
For an enhanced flavor profile, try adding a tablespoon of nut butter to the wet ingredients. This not only infuses richness but also adds healthy fats and makes the squares even more filling. Experimenting with spices such as nutmeg or swapping cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice can also elevate this recipe to match each season.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
Yes, you can substitute bananas with applesauce or pureed pears for a different flavor.
→ How should I store the squares?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze these squares?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container or zipper bag for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for yogurt?
If you don’t have yogurt, you can use a mashed avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Banana Oat Yogurt Squares
I recently discovered the perfect combination of flavors and textures in these Banana Oat Yogurt Squares. The creamy yogurt paired with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the hearty oats make for a delightful snack or breakfast treat. As a busy person, I love how easy they are to whip up, and they stay fresh for days. Whether I'm grabbing one on the go or savoring it with a cup of coffee, these squares always hit the spot. Give them a try, and you’ll see why they’ve become a staple in my kitchen!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- A 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 mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
In another bowl, mix the oats, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit into the batter before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 37g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 6g