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: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Moments Studio

I absolutely love making Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares, especially when I have ripe bananas on hand. The combination of creamy yogurt and the warm flavor of cinnamon creates a delicious treat that's perfect for breakfast or dessert. I enjoy the moist texture of these squares and the hint of sweetness from the bananas, making them a favorite among family and friends. Plus, they are easy to whip up in just a short amount of time, allowing me to satisfy my cravings without too much fuss.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:13:19.439Z

When developing this recipe for Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares, I wanted to create something that was both healthy and indulgent. I experimented with various ratios of yogurt to banana, and I found that the addition of a bit of cinnamon really elevated the flavor profile. I remember the first time I took a bite; the squares were so moist and packed with flavor, and I knew I was onto something special.

The secret to achieving the perfect texture lies in ripening the bananas until they're spotty and brown. This ensures they add just the right amount of sweetness, and I prefer using Greek yogurt for its thick consistency, which contributes to a creamier outcome. Trust me, you'll want to make these regularly!

What You'll Love About These Squares
Delightfully moist and fluffy texture from ripe bananas
Rich cinnamon flavor paired with creamy yogurt
Perfect for breakfast on-the-go or a satisfying dessert
Packed with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good

Understanding the Role of Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star ingredient of these Cinnamon Banana Yogurt Squares, imparting natural sweetness and moisture. Their ripeness is crucial; you want bananas with plenty of brown spots, as this indicates they're sweeter and easier to mash. If you have overripe bananas, don’t hesitate to use them—they're perfect for baking and will enhance the flavor significantly.

Additionally, bananas provide a natural binding agent in this recipe, helping to create a fluffy texture. If you find yourself out of bananas, you might substitute with unsweetened applesauce, but keep in mind that this will alter the flavor and moisture content slightly.

Perfecting the Yogurt Base

Using Greek yogurt in this recipe not only adds creaminess but also boosts protein content, making these squares a satisfying breakfast option. The tanginess of the yogurt beautifully balances the sweetness of the bananas and honey. If you prefer a dairy-free approach, coconut yogurt can be an excellent substitute, though it may add a different texture and slight coconut flavor.

When combining the wet ingredients, it's essential to ensure that the yogurt and mashed bananas are thoroughly mixed to prevent clumps. I recommend using an electric mixer for this step, which helps achieve a smooth consistency without over-mixing the dry ingredients later.

Storing and Serving Your Squares

These squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or you can refrigerate them for about a week. If you want to freeze them for longer storage, cut the squares into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months, making them a great make-ahead option for busy mornings.

Serving suggestions include pairing these squares with a dollop of additional Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for breakfast. For a dessert twist, consider topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts to add crunch and contrasting flavors.

Ingredients

For the Squares

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter before baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your squares turn out too dense, it could be due to over-mixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Aim for just combined, with some flour streaks still showing. This will enable a lighter and fluffier texture. Also, check your baking powder for freshness; expired leavening agents can lead to flat squares.

Another common issue is undercooked centers. Always use a clean toothpick to ensure doneness. If you notice the edges are golden but the middle is still wet, consider lowering your oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and baking them for a few more minutes. This allows more even cooking without over-browning the edges.

Celebrating Variations

Feel free to experiment with additional flavors by incorporating nuts or dark chocolate chips into the batter. Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch while pairing beautifully with the cinnamon. For a chocolate twist, consider mixing in mini chocolate chips, but reduce the honey slightly to balance the sweetness.

You could also switch up the spices; nutmeg or allspice can enhance the flavor profile. For a seasonal change, mix in pumpkin spice in the fall for a cozy treat. These slight modifications can give a whole new taste while maintaining the essence of this beloved recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt or even a non-dairy alternative if preferred.

→ How should I store the squares?

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

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ Is there a way to make these squares lower in sugar?

You can reduce the honey amount or replace it with a sugar alternative like stevia.