Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Collection

I love starting my mornings with a slice of this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf. The combination of ripe bananas and hearty oats creates a moist and flavorful bread that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Yogurt adds a lovely tang and keeps the loaf wonderfully tender. I find that it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas while providing a healthy boost. This recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and packs in wholesome ingredients that make me feel good about what I’m eating.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:10:37.129Z

One Sunday morning, I decided to experiment with what I had in my kitchen, and that's when I came up with this delightful Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf. The fragrant aroma of baking bananas filled the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. I love how the yogurt enhances the loaf's moisture; it’s a perfect texture complement to the oats.

A key tip is to let the loaf cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This extra step ensures it holds together beautifully and gives you those perfect slices to enjoy!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Wholesome oats paired with naturally sweet bananas.
Moist and tender texture thanks to the yogurt.
Perfect for breakfast or as a nutritious snack.

      

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the right texture in the Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf heavily relies on the balance between dry and wet ingredients. The ripe bananas not only sweeten the loaf but also contribute to its moisture content. Be careful not to over-mash the bananas; leaving some small chunks can create a delightful texture contrast within the loaf. Yogurt further enhances the creaminess while keeping the loaf tender. If using Greek yogurt, consider adding a splash of water or milk to maintain the right consistency, as it’s thicker than regular yogurt.

Baking the loaf at 350°F ensures an even cook throughout. To check for doneness, look for golden edges and a set top that springs back when lightly pressed. Inserting a toothpick should yield moist crumbs, but it shouldn't be wet. If you notice uneven baking, consider rotating the pan halfway through to promote even heat distribution. Every oven is unique, and these adjustments will help you achieve that perfect loaf every time.

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

This recipe is versatile, allowing for several ingredient modifications to suit your taste or dietary needs. If you're looking for a vegan option, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal combined with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg). Additionally, use plant-based yogurt instead of dairy yogurt to maintain the same texture without animal products. Adjust honey or maple syrup for sweetness based on your preference, balancing the natural sugars in the bananas.

For a twist on flavor or texture, consider adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom alongside or instead of cinnamon. Chopped apples or applesauce can also be incorporated for added moisture and a sweet-tart balance. If you're a chocolate lover, replacing some rolled oats with cocoa powder transforms this loaf into a chocolaty delight while maintaining its integrity. Just remember to adjust other ingredients slightly to maintain balance in the moisture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Mix well to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your loaf:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or substituting half of the oats for whole wheat flour.

Storage Tips

This Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic and then placed in a zip-top freezer bag. This not only preserves freshness but also makes it easy to grab a slice for a quick breakfast or snack later on. When ready to eat, toast the slices straight from the freezer for a warm treat.

To ensure maximum freshness, avoid slicing the loaf until you're ready to serve. Once cut, the loaf is more susceptible to drying out. If you enjoy your loaf warm, reheat individual slices in the toaster or microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a smear of nut butter on top elevates the experience, making each bite even more satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf as a satisfying breakfast with a dollop of yogurt and a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. A side of fresh fruit complements the loaf beautifully, providing a nutritious boost to start your day. Alternatively, enjoy a slice as a mid-afternoon snack accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. The gentle sweetness and hearty oats fuel your energy levels while keeping hunger at bay.

For a more indulgent twist, try toasting a slice and spreading it with peanut butter or almond butter, topped with banana slices or a sprinkle of chia seeds. This not only adds protein but transforms your simple loaf into a gourmet treat that satisfies cravings while remaining nutritious. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up, this loaf adapts to any time of day, making it a versatile staple in your recipe collection.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of yogurt?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or any non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives if you need a vegan option.