Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf

Name: Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup melted coconut oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

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I absolutely love baking this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf because it combines the wholesome flavors of oats, ripe bananas, and creamy yogurt. Every time I make it, the loaf fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that delights both myself and my family. The moist texture and subtle sweetness make it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up ripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste, and I always feel great after enjoying a slice!

Created by

Ione Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:09:36.280Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was looking for a healthier alternative to the classic banana bread. The addition of yogurt not only enhances the moistness but also provides a pleasant tang that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bananas. I found that using rolled oats adds a lovely texture without compromising the loaf's tenderness.

This loaf is brilliant because it’s not overly sweet, making it versatile enough to enjoy on its own or with a spread of nut butter. I often add a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor, and the result is simply divine!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and nutritious loaf packed with oats and bananas
Perfect balance of sweetness with a hint of tang from yogurt
Great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert
Easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients

Understanding the Ingredients

This Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf relies heavily on the unique contributions of its ingredients. The ripe bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also create a moist crumb that makes the loaf irresistibly tender. Yogurt plays a crucial role as well, offering a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the bananas and adds a rich texture. Using plain yogurt helps keep the flavor profile balanced, but if you're looking for a fun twist, try substituting with flavored yogurt for an added dimension.

The choice of sweetener can also affect the final outcome. Honey adds a floral note, while maple syrup brings a distinct warmth to the flavor. Both options work well, but keep in mind that using honey will make the loaf slightly denser. Additionally, melted coconut oil is an excellent choice here—it contributes to the moistness and adds a subtle coconut flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Baking Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect loaf involves paying attention to baking times and cues. Start checking for doneness at the 40-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your loaf is ready. Avoid overbaking, as this can result in a dry texture, which defeats the purpose of using ripe bananas for moisture. On the flip side, if your toothpick is still sticky after 45 minutes, continue to bake, checking every few minutes until it's done.

Cooling your loaf properly is just as crucial. After removing it from the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps to set the structure. Transferring it to a wire rack allows air to circulate around the loaf, preventing sogginess on the bottom. Once it’s completely cooled, slicing it too early can cause it to crumble, so patience pays off in achieving those perfect slices.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf!

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to bake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf!

Pro Tips

For a more indulgent treat, consider adding dark chocolate chips or dried fruits. This loaf freezes well, so you can enjoy it later by just thawing a slice when you're ready!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to enjoy your Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf throughout the week, it’s a great idea to make it ahead of time. The loaf keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and freezing them. Just thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds when you're ready to enjoy it again. This method ensures you always have a healthy snack on hand.

For those who enjoy altering their recipes, using rolled oats is key. If you're looking to try something different, you can blend rolled oats into a flour-like consistency to create a gluten-free variant. Just be cautious with the baking times as the texture may change slightly, leading to potentially quicker baking times. Experimenting with different nuts or chocolate chips can also yield delightful variations.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this loaf is as versatile as its ingredients. For a delightful breakfast, try toasting a slice and adding a smear of nut butter or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top. This not only elevates the flavor but also adds an extra layer of protein, making your meal even more satisfying. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for an energizing start to your day.

As an afternoon snack, enjoy it plain or with a light drizzle of honey for an added touch of sweetness. Consider turning it into a dessert by serving warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The combination of the warm loaf and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to please after any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based yogurt to make it completely vegan.

→ How do I store the loaf?

Store the Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats can be used, but the texture will be different. Rolled oats provide more chewiness.

→ What can I substitute for yogurt?

You can use applesauce or mashed avocado as a dairy-free alternative to yogurt.