Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares

Name: Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I've always loved experimenting with healthier dessert options, and these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares are a delightful result. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with creamy yogurt gives these squares a lovely texture while keeping things light. The hint of cinnamon adds just the right amount of warmth, making these an ideal snack for any time of day. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, which is a major win for anyone with a busy schedule like mine!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:40:18.506Z

When I first tried making these squares, I wanted a recipe that was not only delicious but also nutritious. I decided to incorporate yogurt and bananas because they provide natural sweetness and moisture, making the texture wonderfully soft. After some testing, I found that the combination of mashed bananas and yogurt creates a perfect balance, keeping the squares light without sacrificing flavor.

One tip I learned is to make sure your bananas are very ripe—they add a deeper sweetness and enhance the overall flavor. I've also enjoyed experimenting with different toppings, such as granola or chopped nuts, which can add a lovely crunch for extra texture.

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Healthy and satisfying snack option
Deliciously moist texture thanks to yogurt and bananas
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or mix-ins

      

The Role of Bananas and Yogurt

The core of the Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares lies in the ripe bananas and yogurt, which are essential for achieving a moist texture. Ripe bananas not only sweeten the mixture naturally but also contribute to its binding properties, making the squares dense yet tender. The starches from the bananas help hold everything together, reducing the need for additional flour and keeping the overall fat content low.

Using plain yogurt enriches the squares with creaminess while maintaining a light profile. It also provides a tangy flavor that counterbalances the sweetness of the bananas and honey. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt works wonderfully, giving an additional layer of flavor that complements the cinnamon remarkably well.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

Achieving the perfect bake can sometimes be tricky. Keep an eye on your squares during the last five minutes of baking. You want to pull them out when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean but avoid overbaking, which can lead to dry squares. Instead, aim for a soft, slightly springy texture at the edges; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

For an even more delightful texture, consider lightly toasting the rolled oats before mixing them in. This step enhances their nutty flavor and gives your squares a satisfying crunch. If you prefer a sweeter finish, you can sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar on top once they cool.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix well and ensure all ingredients are combined smoothly.

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually stir this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Bake

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

Cool and Cut

Once baked, let the squares cool in the dish for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares.

Enjoy these delicious squares as a snack or a light dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the mixture before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares can be made in advance, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Once cooled, store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, placing them in the fridge can extend their freshness for up to a week. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing them. Slice the squares and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or warm them in the microwave in short bursts.

Customization and Variations

One of the best parts about these squares is how customizable they are! Mix in your favorite nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or chia seeds, for added texture and nutrition. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to give a unique twist to the flavor profile. In addition, incorporating chocolate chips or dried fruit can make the squares even more indulgent.

If you're looking to reduce sweetness, feel free to cut back on the honey or maple syrup, knowing that the bananas provide natural sweetness. Conversely, if you prefer a richer taste, you might add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a scoop of your favorite protein powder to make these squares a more substantial snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use dairy-free yogurt or Greek yogurt for a thicker texture.

→ How should I store the squares?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Just wrap them individually and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives for sweetness.