Banana Oat Yogurt Breakfast Squares
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I love starting my day with these Banana Oat Yogurt Breakfast Squares! They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. I usually whip up a batch on the weekend so that I have quick, healthy breakfasts ready to go during the busy week. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy yogurt creates a wonderful texture and flavor that keeps me satisfied and energized until lunchtime. Plus, they are a breeze to customize with your favorite nuts and seeds.
When I first made these Banana Oat Yogurt Breakfast Squares during a busy weekday, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet satisfying they were. The bananas add natural sweetness, while the oats provide a hearty base that keeps me full. One tip I've learned is not to skip letting the mixture set in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking; this really helps with the texture.
Over time, I've experimented with adding different ingredients like cinnamon and nuts, all of which have brought their own unique twist to the recipe. I love how versatile these squares are—they're perfect for any occasion, whether it's a quick breakfast or a healthy snack!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
- Packed with fiber from oats and yogurt
- Perfectly portable for busy mornings
The Role of Bananas and Yogurt
Ripe bananas are the star of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and moisture. The use of bananas not only sweetens the squares but also adds a rich texture that helps bind the ingredients together. If you find yourself with overly ripe bananas, don’t toss them; they are perfect for this recipe! The more speckled the bananas, the sweeter the final product will be, enhancing both the flavor and health benefits.
Yogurt adds a creamy consistency and a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the bananas. It also contributes protein and probiotics to your breakfast, helping to keep you feeling full and promoting gut health. If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to use a dairy-free yogurt option. Just ensure it has a thick consistency to mimic the creamy texture of regular yogurt.
Customize Your Breakfast Squares
One of the best features of these breakfast squares is their versatility. While the base recipe calls for rolled oats and yogurt, consider experimenting with different mix-ins. Chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts add crunch, while seeds like chia or flax offer additional fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. If you prefer a bit of tartness, try adding dried cranberries or chopped apples for a delightful twist.
You can also adjust the flavor profile by changing the type of yogurt you use. For example, using vanilla yogurt will add a delightful taste, while Greek yogurt can increase the protein content. If you’re avoiding added sugars, opt for plain yogurt and reduce the honey or maple syrup further; the ripe bananas will provide sufficient sweetness.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Breakfast Squares:
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup yogurt (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup nuts or seeds (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your squares:
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and eggs. Mix well until smooth.
Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, and cinnamon until everything is fully incorporated. If you're adding nuts or seeds, fold them in at this point.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased or lined square baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Cut
Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy warm or store in the fridge for later!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to swap out the yogurt for a dairy-free option if you're looking for a vegan-friendly version. You can also add chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor.
Storage Tips
These Banana Oat Yogurt Breakfast Squares can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a perfect grab-and-go option for busy mornings. If you want to enjoy them beyond that time, consider freezing them. Allow the squares to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
To reheat, simply pop a square in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. This quick reheating keeps the squares moist and delicious, just like freshly baked.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your breakfast squares come out too dense, it could be due to over-mixing the batter. When adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined; this helps maintain a lighter texture. On the other hand, if they are too crumbly, consider increasing the moisture by adding an extra tablespoon of yogurt or a splash of milk.
Another common issue is the squares sticking to the baking dish. To prevent this, make sure to grease the dish thoroughly or use parchment paper. If you find your squares are overbaking, keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; they should be golden around the edges and firm in the center but not dry.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?
Yes! These Banana Oat Yogurt Breakfast Squares freeze really well. Just wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container.
→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but note that the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats make the squares softer.
→ Is there a substitute for honey?
Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey to keep it vegan.
→ How long do these last in the fridge?
They can last up to a week in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.
Banana Oat Yogurt Breakfast Squares
I love starting my day with these Banana Oat Yogurt Breakfast Squares! They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. I usually whip up a batch on the weekend so that I have quick, healthy breakfasts ready to go during the busy week. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy yogurt creates a wonderful texture and flavor that keeps me satisfied and energized until lunchtime. Plus, they are a breeze to customize with your favorite nuts and seeds.
Created by: Katherine Blake
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 squares
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup yogurt (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup nuts or seeds (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and eggs. Mix well until smooth.
Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, and cinnamon until everything is fully incorporated. If you're adding nuts or seeds, fold them in at this point.
Pour the mixture into a greased or lined square baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy warm or store in the fridge for later!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to swap out the yogurt for a dairy-free option if you're looking for a vegan-friendly version. You can also add chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 6g