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 cup rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Smart Cooking

I absolutely enjoy baking, and this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of ripe bananas, creamy yogurt, and hearty oats produces a loaf that’s not only delicious but also incredibly moist. I love that it makes for a hearty breakfast or a sweet snack, and it’s so easy to whip up! Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas. If you’re looking for a wholesome treat that satisfies, this is the recipe you need.

Created by

Isla Weatherford

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:39:40.890Z

When I first experimented with making a banana loaf, I wanted something that really highlighted the fruit's natural sweetness. The key was to add yogurt, which not only keeps the loaf moist but also adds a lovely tanginess that balances the sweetness of the bananas. I found that using oats gives it a delightful texture and boosts the fiber content, making it a more filling option.

After several trials, I discovered that baking it at a lower temperature prevents the top from getting too dark while allowing the inside to bake perfectly. It's essential to let it cool completely before slicing—doing so enhances the flavor and texture even further. I often add a few walnuts or chocolate chips for an extra treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with a delightful banana taste
Healthy oats and yogurt make it satisfying
Easy to prepare and perfect for breakfasts or snacks

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf plays a crucial role in achieving its delightful texture and flavor. The mashed bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute to the loaf's moistness. When choosing bananas, opt for overripe ones, as their enhanced sweetness intensifies the overall taste. Yogurt brings in creaminess while also adding a bit of tang, balancing the sweetness from both the bananas and honey or maple syrup.

The inclusion of rolled oats adds heartiness and a chewy texture, making this loaf not just a treat but also satisfying. If you want to enhance the oat flavor, consider using whole rolled oats instead of quick oats for added texture. The all-purpose flour serves as the binder, giving the loaf structure, while the baking soda and baking powder work together to create the ideal rise, ensuring your loaf is fluffy yet dense.

Tips for Perfect Baking

To achieve the best results, it's vital to avoid overmixing the batter when combining your wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf. Instead, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, leaving some lumps for a tender crumb. If you're unsure, a few visible streaks of flour are perfectly fine and will incorporate during baking.

You may find that the baking time can vary depending on your oven and the type of pan used. A metal loaf pan typically produces a crispier crust than a glass or ceramic pan. Keep an eye on your loaf while it bakes; aiming for golden edges is a good visual cue. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your loaf is ready to come out.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Mix all these ingredients well for a deliciously moist loaf.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, fold in walnuts or chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 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 warm Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf!

Pro Tips

For best results, use very ripe bananas as they are sweeter and add more moisture. You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

This Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For an extra special treat, slice it and serve with a smear of nut butter or a dollop of yogurt on the side. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder can elevate flavors and provide a pleasing presentation. It's also wonderful when paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

If you're looking to personalize the loaf further, consider adding mix-ins like dried fruits, seeds, or spices. Chopped walnuts or chocolate chips are excellent options that provide additional crunch and sweetness. For a seasonal twist, try adding a teaspoon of pumpkin spice or cinnamon to the batter for warmth.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Once your delightful loaf has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, slice the loaf and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps the loaf from drying out and allows easy access to a slice whenever the craving strikes.

To thaw, simply let the slice sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop it into the microwave for a few seconds. Reheating in the toaster or oven also helps restore the loaf's original texture, making it taste just as fresh as when it was first baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of yogurt?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or any non-dairy yogurt you prefer.

→ How can I make it vegan?

Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ Can I freeze this banana loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or even some cocoa powder for a chocolate variation!