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: 3 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 powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Daily Cooking

I can't get enough of this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf! It's the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients, making it a delightful snack or breakfast option. The combination of ripe bananas and oats adds a naturally sweet flavor, while yogurt keeps it moist and fluffy. I love how easy it is to prepare, and it fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. Plus, it's a great way to use up overripe bananas. Trust me, once you try this loaf, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:31:36.384Z

When I first experimented with this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf, I was amazed at how the ingredients came together effortlessly. Using yogurt adds a unique creaminess that elevates the texture beyond a typical banana bread. The oats lend a heartiness, allowing me to enjoy it as a fulfilling breakfast or satisfying snack.

One specific tip I learned along the way is to let the bananas get really ripe. The sweeter and softer they are, the more flavor they add to the loaf. It’s a simple trick that makes all the difference in taste – trust me on this!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and fluffy texture from the yogurt
Wholesome ingredients that are naturally sweet
Perfectly suited for breakfast or a snack

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

In this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf, ripe bananas serve as the star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and moisture to the loaf. The key is to use bananas that are well overripe, as their flavor and sugar concentration peak at this stage, making your loaf delectably sweet without added sugars. Each banana contributes to the overall moisture content, resulting in a tender crumb.

Yogurt plays a significant role not just in flavor but also in texture. By using plain yogurt, you're adding a creaminess that makes this loaf fluffy and light. The acidity in yogurt interacts with the baking soda, creating a slight leavening effect, which helps achieve that perfect rise. For a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt can be a close substitute, imparting a subtle sweetness.

Baking Tips for Success

When mixing your wet and dry ingredients, take care not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable; this will help keep your loaf moist and avoid a dense texture. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the oats, leading to a chewy rather than fluffy loaf. Aim for just combined, and you'll achieve that delightful lightness.

For the best baking results, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the loaf to rise properly without becoming brown too quickly. If you notice the top is browning too fast, consider loosely covering it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This technique helps to prevent over-browning while allowing the inside to bake fully.

Ingredients

For the Loaf

3 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 powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine and Pour

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips. You can also substitute the honey or maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener for a lower-calorie option.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf is an excellent make-ahead option for busy mornings. You can prep the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before pouring it into your greased loaf pan and baking it as directed. This approach ensures minimal morning fuss while still delivering a fresh, warm loaf.

For storing leftovers, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to store it longer, slice the loaf and freeze individual pieces. Place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag with as much air removed as possible. Thaw and reheat slices in a toaster or microwave for a quick treat anytime!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This loaf is delicious enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with various toppings. Spread a little almond butter or peanut butter on warm slices for an added protein boost. Alternatively, a dollop of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey elevates it to a delightful brunch option. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas on top can add color and flavor.

Consider adding mix-ins to create your own variations. Nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can bring in a satisfying crunch, while dark chocolate chips add a hint of indulgence. If you like a spiced kick, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping out some cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice. These tweaks can help customize the loaf to suit your preferences or the season!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this loaf?

Yes, the Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of yogurt?

You can substitute yogurt with applesauce or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a vegan option.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

→ How long will it last once baked?

The loaf will stay fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.