Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Squares

Name: Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Soft Collection

I absolutely love making Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Squares for a quick and satisfying snack. The combination of soft bananas and rich yogurt sets a deliciously moist base, while the warm notes of cinnamon elevate the flavor profile. Not only is this recipe easy to whip up, but it also fills my kitchen with a cozy aroma that invites everyone to gather around. These squares are perfect for any time of day, whether you need a breakfast treat or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:45:34.574Z

When I first experimented with Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Squares, it was on a whim after buying a bunch of ripe bananas. I wanted to create something that showcased their sweetness while being light enough for a snack. Mixing in yogurt adds both moisture and a slight tang, balancing the overall flavor and making these squares extremely satisfying.

One tip I found essential is to let the squares cool completely before cutting; this helps them hold together better. I've tried serving them warm and cold, but they hold their shape best when they've settled for a while. Now, it’s hard to keep these around for long because everyone loves them!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Moist and flavorful with ripe bananas and tantalizing cinnamon
Perfectly balanced sweetness makes them great for breakfast or dessert
Easy to make with simple ingredients and no fancy equipment needed

      

The Perfect Banana Selection

Choosing the right bananas is crucial for these Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Squares. Look for bananas that are ripe with a few brown spots, as they are sweeter and mash more easily. If your bananas are too green, they won't provide the same depth of flavor and moisture. You can even use overripe bananas, as the sugars will caramelize during baking, enhancing the sweetness and taste of your squares.

Remember to mash the bananas thoroughly to ensure their flavor integrates seamlessly into the batter. A fork works well for mashing; aim for a smooth consistency with minimal lumps. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can reserve a few pieces for the batter, which will create delightful pockets of banana goodness throughout the squares.

Getting the Right Texture

The balance of wet and dry ingredients is key to achieving a moist texture in your squares. The yogurt not only adds creaminess but also contributes to the overall moisture, preventing the final product from drying out during baking. If you wish to make these squares a bit lighter, consider substituting half of the yogurt with applesauce, which will provide moisture while reducing calorie content.

As you mix the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Stir until just combined; this helps maintain a tender crumb. An overly mixed batter can lead to tough squares. Aim for a homogenous mix without any flour pockets, and remember that a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once your Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Squares have cooled, consider how you want to serve them. For a delightful twist, dust the tops with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar. These finishing touches not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of your squares.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, these squares freeze well. Just wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their soft texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Squares:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix these ingredients together carefully for a perfect batter.

Instructions

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

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, blend the mashed bananas, yogurt, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Banana Cinnamon Yogurt Squares!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

While the original recipe calls for plain yogurt, you can experiment with Greek yogurt for a thicker texture and an extra protein boost. Alternatively, if you're dairy-free, opt for almond or coconut yogurt, keeping in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly. For a more unique taste, try adding a splash of almond or coconut extract, which can elevate the flavor profile even further.

If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can replace the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup; just add a bit more flour to offset the added liquid. For a healthier version, incorporate oats or whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour for added fiber. The result will be a wholesome snack that retains its delightful moistness and flavors.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If the squares turn out too dense, it's likely that the batter was overmixed or the flour was packed too tightly. Make sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off without packing it down. If you hesitate on the baking time, watch for the edges to pull away slightly from the pan and a golden-brown top for the best results.

On the other hand, if your squares come out too dry, consider adjusting your oven temperature. Ovens can vary, and yours may run hotter. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure accurate readings and prevent overbaking. Additionally, ensure you are measuring your ingredients properly; excess flour can lead to dry squares.

Scaling Up the Recipe

Scaling up this recipe is simple if you're hosting a gathering. For a 9x13 inch pan, simply increase the recipe by 1.5 times. This adjustment allows for a perfect bake without crowding, resulting in evenly cooked squares. Just be mindful that you may need to extend the baking time by about 5-10 minutes; check for doneness using the toothpick test.

If you decide to make a double batch, divide the batter into two pans to ensure even cooking. Be cautious not to open the oven door too frequently, as this can cause the temperature to drop, affecting the rise of your squares. Baking them in two separate pans will give you consistent results and a delicious treat for everyone!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain?

Yes, flavored yogurt can add an extra layer of taste to your squares!

→ How should I store leftover squares?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.

→ Are these gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.