Banana Oat Breakfast Squares
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I love starting my day with something that feels hearty yet wholesome, and these Banana Oat Breakfast Squares hit the mark perfectly. Bursting with natural sweetness from ripe bananas and a delightful chewiness from oats, they make a perfect grab-and-go option. I usually whip up a batch on Sunday evening, and they last all week in the fridge. The combination of flavors and textures keeps me satisfied until lunch, making my mornings much more enjoyable as I savor these healthy treats.
I remember the first time I created these Banana Oat Breakfast Squares. I was in search of a healthy breakfast alternative that would keep my energy levels up throughout the morning. By combining ripe bananas with rolled oats and a hint of cinnamon, I found the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. The result is a wholesome treat that fits seamlessly into any busy schedule.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily add nuts, seeds, or even a handful of chocolate chips for a bit of indulgence. It's a great way to use up overripe bananas, and each square brings comfort without the guilt. I always feel good sharing them with family and friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome ingredients that keep you full without the guilt
- Naturally sweetened with bananas for a delicious flavor
- Easy to make ahead of time and perfect for busy mornings
Understanding the Base Ingredients
The foundation of these Banana Oat Breakfast Squares lies in the ripe bananas you choose. The more spotty and soft the bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your squares will be. This natural sweetness reduces the need for added sugars, allowing you to rely on whole, nutritious ingredients. If you find yourself with overly ripe bananas that you won't use in time, consider peeling and freezing them for future baking—just thaw them and mash when you’re ready to use!
Rolled oats not only provide texture but also serve as a great source of fiber which keeps you feeling full longer. When selecting oats, ensure they are certified gluten-free if you are following a gluten-free diet. If you don’t have almond milk on hand, any milk alternative will do, from oat to soy milk. Just keep in mind that variations in milk can affect the moisture level of your squares, so adjust accordingly if you opt for a thicker or thinner consistency.
Baking Tips for Perfect Squares
While baking the squares, keep an eye on them around the 25-minute mark. The edges should be just golden brown, and if you insert a toothpick, it should come out clean or with few moist crumbs attached. If the center is still wet, it’s safe to return them to the oven for a few more minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking, which could yield a dry texture. Trust me, finding that sweet spot for baking is what creates the perfect chewy squares.
Cutting the squares can be tricky when they are warm; I recommend allowing them to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. This helps set their shape and makes them less likely to crumble when cutting. Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts, and for even squares, mark out gridlines before slicing, ensuring each piece is evenly sized for easy portioning throughout the week.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to get started!
Banana Oat Breakfast Squares Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best sweetness!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your breakfast squares.
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond milk, honey or maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
Add Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add this mixture to the banana mixture and stir until fully combined. If using, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Cut
Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares.
Enjoy your delicious Banana Oat Breakfast Squares!
Pro Tips
- Store squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a warm breakfast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
These Banana Oat Breakfast Squares store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, so they’re perfect for meal prep. For longer storage, consider freezing them; simply cut into squares, wrap each individually in plastic, and store them in a zip-top freezer bag. You can defrost them overnight in the fridge or microwave them frozen for a quick breakfast fix in the morning—just 30 seconds on high usually does the trick.
If you're looking to switch up the flavors, you can mix in different add-ins like dried fruits, seeds, or spices. Adding a handful of blueberries or chopped apples can offer variation in texture and taste. I sometimes experiment with mixing in a tablespoon of chia seeds for an added nutrition boost—they absorb moisture, so if you include them, slightly reduce the amount of oats.
Flavor Variations and Pairing Ideas
Another fun twist is to change the nut or seed butter you use in the recipe. Sunflower seed butter makes it nut-free, and coconut butter can introduce a delightful richness. For added indulgence, I occasionally replace part of the almond butter with mini chocolate chips or swirls of nutella before baking. Just ensure to balance other sweeteners if you're adding these extras.
Serve these squares with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of nut butter on top for added creaminess and protein. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for a complete meal. Enjoying these squares with a cup of coffee or tea elevates the whole experience; they’re not just a breakfast option but a satisfying snack anytime during the day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may be softer. Rolled oats provide a better chew.
→ What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar works well as an alternative.
→ How do I know when the squares are done?
They should be golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?
Absolutely! They freeze well; just wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe bag.
Banana Oat Breakfast Squares
I love starting my day with something that feels hearty yet wholesome, and these Banana Oat Breakfast Squares hit the mark perfectly. Bursting with natural sweetness from ripe bananas and a delightful chewiness from oats, they make a perfect grab-and-go option. I usually whip up a batch on Sunday evening, and they last all week in the fridge. The combination of flavors and textures keeps me satisfied until lunch, making my mornings much more enjoyable as I savor these healthy treats.
What You'll Need
Banana Oat Breakfast Squares Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter (or peanut butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, almond milk, honey or maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Add this mixture to the banana mixture and stir until fully combined. If using, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares.
Extra Tips
- Store squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a warm breakfast.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g