Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares

Name: Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Whenever I crave a sweet but healthy treat, I whip up these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy yogurt creates a moist, flavorful snack that satisfies my sweet tooth without any guilt. I love how easy they are to prepare and how quickly they come together. These squares are perfect for breakfast on the go or a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. With a hint of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of bananas, they are a delightful treat I reach for time and again.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:16:24.482Z

I've always been a fan of yogurt-based desserts, and this recipe quickly became a go-to in my kitchen. The first time I made these squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how moist and flavorful they were. By using ripe bananas, I found that I didn’t need to add much sugar, allowing the natural sweetness to shine through.

One of the best tips I can offer is to let them cool completely in the pan before slicing. This allows the squares to firm up, making them easier to cut and handle. Trust me, these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares are an indulgent yet healthy addition to any meal or snack time!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Moist and flavorful with ripe bananas
Quick to prepare and bake
Perfect for breakfast or a snack
Naturally sweetened and healthy

      

The Role of Key Ingredients

Ripe bananas are the star of these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares, not only providing natural sweetness but also moisture and flavor. The more spotty the banana, the sweeter and creamier your squares will be. This means that using overripe bananas is actually a great strategy; they will blend smoothly into the mixture and contribute to an irresistible texture.

Greek yogurt adds protein and a silky texture to the batter, enhancing the moistness of the squares. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, feel free to substitute coconut or almond yogurt. The tanginess of Greek yogurt balances well with the sweetness of the bananas, making every bite wonderfully harmonious.

Baking Techniques for Success

When baking these squares, introducing your wet and dry ingredients gradually helps maintain the perfect texture. Stir the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense squares. The goal is to have a fluffy crumb that holds together well, so be gentle during this step.

Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. After 25 minutes, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If your squares are not fully set, but starting to brown, reduce the temperature by 25°F and bake for an extra 5-10 minutes.

Ingredients:

Ingredients for Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares

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

Instructions:

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in chopped nuts and chocolate chips.

Bake the Squares

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 equal pieces.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a variation, try adding a handful of blueberries or swapping the cinnamon for nutmeg. These squares freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares are ideal for meal prep. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing individual squares. Wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they can last up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

You can also try different flavor profiles by incorporating spices like nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon. If you're a chocolate lover, reaching for dark chocolate chips is a great option. For a fruity twist, replace some of the bananas with applesauce or pureed pumpkin, adjusting the honey or maple syrup based on sweetness preference.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These squares make for a delightful breakfast or an afternoon snack. Try serving them with a dollop of Greek yogurt on top and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for a sophisticated touch. You can also pair them with fresh fruit or a scoop of nut butter to add variety and a protein boost.

For a festive touch, consider adding cranberries or dried apricots to the batter along with your nuts for a chewy texture contrast. You can also create a layered dessert by sandwiching them with yogurt and fruit for a parfait effect. These small tweaks can elevate your squares to a new level of enjoyment.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain?

Yes, flavored yogurt can add extra taste, though it may change the sweetness of the squares.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use certified gluten-free oats for the recipe.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

You can substitute honey with agave syrup or a sugar-free sweetener depending on your preference.