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 yogurt (plain or flavored); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups rolled oats; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

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I’ve always loved the comforting taste of banana bread, but I wanted to create a healthier twist that still packs a flavorful punch. The combination of oats and yogurt gives this loaf a wonderful texture while keeping it moist and tender. It’s a recipe I turn to again and again, especially when I have overripe bananas that need to be used up. Trust me, once you try this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf, you'll want to keep it in your baking rotation!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:06:07.047Z

Baking this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf was a delightful experience that filled my kitchen with the warm aroma of bananas and oats. I found that using yogurt not only contributed to the loaf's moistness but also helped to reduce the amount of oil needed, making it a lighter option. Incorporating oats adds a pleasant chewiness that complements the softness of the bananas perfectly.

After a few trials, I discovered that letting the batter rest for about ten minutes before baking helps the oats absorb moisture, leading to an even better texture. It's a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in the final outcome. I can confidently say, this loaf is a new family favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Healthy and hearty with nutritious ingredients
Perfectly moist and deliciously flavored
Great way to use up overripe bananas

      

The Role of Yogurt in Your Loaf

Using yogurt in this Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf serves not only to enhance moisture but also to add a creamy, subtle tang. The acidity in yogurt helps to activate the baking soda, resulting in a lighter texture while preventing the loaf from becoming too dense. You can opt for Greek yogurt for a richer flavor, or even a plant-based yogurt if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Make sure to choose unsweetened yogurt to control the overall sweetness of the loaf, as the bananas, honey, and brown sugar provide ample sweetness on their own.

If you're in a pinch and don’t have yogurt, you can substitute it with applesauce or buttermilk. Both options will enhance moisture but ensure you adjust the sugar content accordingly, especially with applesauce, which adds additional sweetness.

Perfecting the Oat Texture

The rolled oats in this recipe not only add a hearty texture but also contribute to the nutritional profile of the loaf. Oats are rich in fiber, making this banana bread a satiating snack. For a unique twist, try using quick oats instead of rolled oats for a softer texture, or steel-cut oats for more chewiness—but remember to soak them for a few hours beforehand if you choose the latter, as they require more time to soften during baking.

To ensure an even texture, it’s important to mix the dry ingredients thoroughly before combining them with the wet mixture. This helps distribute the baking powder and baking soda evenly, which is vital for a uniform rise. A well-mixed dry base will lead to a beautifully baked loaf without any residual clumps of dry ingredients.

Baking and Storing Your Loaf

When baking your Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf, keep an eye on the time and temperature. Ovens can vary, so it’s wise to start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recommended 45 minutes. Look for golden edges and a firm surface. If the top cracks slightly, that's a sign of a well-risen loaf! If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center continues to bake.

Once baked, allow the loaf to cool in the pan to prevent it from becoming soggy. After 10 minutes, transfer it to a wire rack for complete cooling. This loaf keeps well in an air-tight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or you can store it in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, slice and freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap, so you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients:

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup yogurt (plain or flavored)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your loaf:

Preheat the oven

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

Mix wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, yogurt, brown sugar, honey, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.

Combine dry ingredients

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

Combine both mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Allow the loaf to 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 touch, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking. They can enhance both flavor and texture!

Serving Suggestions

This Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate it even further. Serve a slice warm with a pat of butter or a spread of almond butter for added richness. You might also consider topping it with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey for a delightful breakfast treat, or even adding some chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips to the batter for an extra flourish.

Consider pairing your slice with a fresh fruit salad or yogurt for a balanced meal. You could even serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The options are endless!

Variations to Try

If you're feeling adventurous, there are many ways to switch up the flavors in your Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf. Try adding a teaspoon of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch, or mix in your favorite seeds, such as chia or flaxseeds, for an added nutritional boost. Dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, can also provide a delightful tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bananas.

For a more decadent flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter to create a chocolate banana loaf. This twist can turn your healthy loaf into a guilt-free dessert that satisfies the sweet tooth!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your loaf comes out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Always measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup without packing it down, then level it off. Additionally, ensure you’re not adding too many wet ingredients, as the bananas and yogurt provide sufficient moisture.

On the other hand, if your loaf turns out too dry, next time consider reducing the baking time slightly or ensuring that your bananas are very ripe, as they release moisture during baking. Your oven may also be running hot; using an oven thermometer can help pinpoint if this is the case for future bakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the yogurt?

Yes, you can use applesauce or a non-dairy yogurt as a substitute for dairy yogurt.

→ How can 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 the Banana Oat Yogurt Loaf?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

Try adding vanilla or almond extract, as well as nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.