Banana Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Banana Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond milk (or milk of choice); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with something nutritious and satisfying, which is why I created these Banana Oat Breakfast Squares. They are easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients like ripe bananas and oats. Each square offers a delightful balance of natural sweetness and chewy texture, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or a snack on the go. Plus, they’re a great way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-18T01:55:11.872Z

When I first experimented with these Banana Oat Breakfast Squares, I wanted to create a recipe that was not only healthy but also satisfying. I found that using ripe bananas adds natural sweetness and moisture, while whole oats provide essential fiber. The result was a deliciously chewy snack that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee in the morning!

One tip I learned while perfecting this recipe is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This helps them hold their shape better and ensures a perfect texture. They're also great for meal prep; just store them in an airtight container, and they'll last all week!

        Why You'll Love These Banana Oat Breakfast Squares
        Packed with wholesome ingredients and fiber
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas
Perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack
Easy to make and meal prep-friendly

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Banana Oat Breakfast Squares lies in the ingredients used. Ripe bananas not only contribute natural sweetness but also provide moisture, which is crucial for achieving a chewy texture. When selecting bananas, look for those with plenty of brown spots; they’re sweeter and easier to mash. The rolled oats bind the ingredients together while adding fiber, making these squares satisfying without being heavy. If you prefer, you can substitute rolled oats with quick oats, but note that the texture will be slightly different—quicker oats may yield a softer square.

In place of almond milk, feel free to use any milk of your choice, such as soy or oat milk, to suit dietary preferences or restrictions. If you're aiming for a vegan recipe, using maple syrup in place of honey is a perfect alternative, though the flavor profile might differ slightly. The balance of wet and dry ingredients is essential; too much liquid can lead to a soggy result. Aim for a thick batter that holds together when pressed.

Perfecting Texture and Baking

Achieving the right texture in these breakfast squares is paramount. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, combine them just until everything is unified; over-mixing can lead to a denser square. As you spread the batter into the pan, be sure to press it down evenly to avoid uneven baking. If the top edges are getting too brown while baking, you can cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes to help prevent over-browning while ensuring the center cooks through.

Keep an eye on the time during baking—after about 20 minutes, start checking for a golden color at the edges and a firm center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter; this indicates the squares are done. Patience is key here: allowing them to cool sufficiently before cutting ensures clean edges and prevents them from crumbling.

Ingredients

For the Banana Oat Squares

2 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or dried fruits!

Instructions

Preheat Oven

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond milk, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until combined.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy with your favorite toppings, such as yogurt or nut butter!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips to the mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Banana Oat Breakfast Squares are an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the batter the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh in the morning for a warm breakfast. If you opt to bake them ahead of time, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing the squares. They freeze well, and you can pop one out the night before for a quick breakfast the next day.

To freeze, cut the cooled squares into individual portions, wrap each square in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy one, you can either let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or warm it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute until heated through. This flexibility makes it easy to enjoy a nutritious breakfast, even on the busiest mornings.

Serving Suggestions

While these Banana Oat Breakfast Squares are delicious on their own, there are numerous ways to customize your servings. Consider topping them with a dollop of yogurt or a smear of nut butter for an added protein boost. Fresh fruits like berries or sliced apples make excellent accompaniments, providing a splash of color and extra nutrients. A sprinkle of chia seeds can add some healthy fats and a fun texture variation on top.

For a celebratory touch, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the squares after they’ve cooled. This pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bananas and adds a decadent flair. You could also explore variations by adding mix-ins like chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to the batter for different flavors and textures. The possibilities are endless!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture might be slightly different.

→ How should I store the squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for a week.

→ Can I freeze the Banana Oat Squares?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.