Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares

Name: Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I adore these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares for their irresistible blend of flavors and textures. The soft, moist banana base combined with the creamy yogurt makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, the hint of cinnamon ties everything together perfectly! I often make these when I’m craving something sweet yet wholesome. They are quick to prepare, and with minimal ingredients, they’re an ideal snack or breakfast option. I can't wait for you to give them a try and enjoy the warm, cinnamon-infused aroma that fills your kitchen!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:28:21.062Z

When I first made these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares, I was amazed at how easy they were and how quickly they disappeared! The combination of ripe bananas and Greek yogurt creates a moist texture that’s simply irresistible. I found that using overly ripe bananas enhances the natural sweetness, which means I can cut back on added sugars.

One tip that really worked for me was to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top before baking. It gives a beautiful golden color and an aromatic finish that will have everyone rushing to the kitchen. These squares are perfect for breakfast, and I love that they keep well in the fridge!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist texture infused with cinnamon and banana
Healthy alternative packed with protein from yogurt
Quick and easy to make, perfect for breakfasts or snacks

      

The Role of Bananas

Ripe bananas are the heart of these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares. Their natural sweetness and moisture not only add flavor but also help bind the ingredients together, resulting in a tender texture. For best results, use bananas with plenty of brown spots; these are the sweetest and most flavorful. If you're facing a banana shortage, unsweetened applesauce can serve as a handy substitute, providing moisture without changing the dish's essence.

When mashing bananas, make sure to leave some small chunks for added texture. This can enhance the overall mouthfeel of your squares. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend the bananas in a food processor until they are completely creamy; this will produce a different, silkier result. Just keep in mind that this could slightly alter the final texture.

Oats: The Perfect Base

Rolled oats are not just a filler in this recipe; they play a crucial role in achieving the right texture and heartiness. Oats absorb moisture during baking, so they contribute to the overall structure while retaining a soft, chewy bite. Opt for old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results, as instant oats can lead to a mushy texture that may not hold together well.

If you're looking for a gluten-free version, swap rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats. They will offer the same texture and flavor, ensuring that the recipe remains accessible to those with dietary restrictions. Keep an eye on the baking time; gluten-free oats can sometimes cook a bit faster, so a toothpick should cleanly come out from the center when done.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, these squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week. For longer preservation, you can freeze the squares, wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, making them a convenient grab-and-go breakfast or snack.

These Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares are versatile; try drizzling them with a bit of honey or maple syrup before serving for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also top them with sliced fruits or yogurt for a more filling breakfast. The addition of dark chocolate chips or dried fruits can add an exciting twist and elevate their flavor, making each batch a unique delight.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your delicious Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares!

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Add the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.

Add Walnuts

Fold in the chopped walnuts if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!

These squares are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chocolate chips or dried fruits for variety.

Baking Tips

When pouring the batter into the baking dish, use a spatula to ensure an even spread. This promotes uniform baking and helps achieve a consistent texture across all squares. To enhance the cinnamon flavor further, you can sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top of the batter before baking, creating a lovely crust and aroma.

Keep an eye on your squares as they approach the 25-minute mark in the oven. Natural variations in ovens mean that baking times can differ; look for golden edges and a firm center. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly and cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-baking.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! Adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger can enhance the warmth of the flavor profile. For chocolate lovers, incorporating cocoa powder or dark chocolate chips can add richness to these yogurt squares, complementing the banana beautifully.

For a protein boost, consider folding in a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the wet ingredients. This can make the squares not only more filling but also a great post-workout snack that helps support muscle recovery.

Common Troubleshooting

If your squares come out too dry, it could be attributed to over-baking or using overly ripe bananas that have lost moisture. Ensure you check for doneness a few minutes earlier and trust your senses – a fragrant aroma and golden edges are good signs that they're close to being done.

On the other hand, if the squares are too wet or gummy, it might be due to using an excess of wet ingredients. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately, and when in doubt, slightly reduce the amount of mashed banana or yogurt to achieve a better texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt or a non-dairy alternative, but this may alter the texture.

→ How do I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are in a freezer-safe container.

→ Is there a way to make these squares vegan?

Yes! Use a flax egg in place of eggs and a vegan yogurt alternative.