Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares

Name: Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted coconut oil; 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love starting my day with something delicious yet wholesome, and these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares fit the bill perfectly. With ripe bananas adding natural sweetness and a warm hint of cinnamon, every bite is a delightful treat. They are quick to prepare and make for an ideal grab-and-go breakfast. Plus, they freeze well, so I can always have a batch on hand for those busy mornings when I need something tasty without the fuss. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist these comforting squares!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:52:18.784Z

Making these Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares has truly been a game changer in my morning routine. When I first tried the recipe, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients meld together to create a beautifully moist texture. The key is using overly ripe bananas; they not only enhance the sweetness but also improve the overall consistency. I also recommend adding a sprinkle of nuts for an extra crunch!

What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. If I’m in the mood for something different, I can easily swap spices or toss in some chocolate chips. This flexibility not only keeps breakfast interesting but also encourages creativity in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these squares, you’ll find yourself making them time and again!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist with the perfect blend of cinnamon and banana
Great for meal prepping; just slice and freeze!
A fantastic way to use up overripe bananas

      

The Role of Bananas

Using ripe bananas is crucial for achieving the ideal sweetness in these breakfast squares. The natural sugars in overripe bananas caramelize as they bake, enhancing the overall flavor and keeping the squares moist. If your bananas aren't quite ripe enough, the squares may come out dense and less sweet. Aim for bananas with plenty of brown spots; they’ll mash easily and incorporate well into the batter.

In addition to sweetness, bananas add important moisture to the squares, replacing the need for excessive oils or butters. This balance not only provides a deliciously moist texture but also offers a healthy twist on traditional breakfast bars. If you're looking for an alternative, unsweetened applesauce can work as a substitute, though it may yield a slightly different flavor.

Baking Tips for Success

Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the batter inside. This step is critical for even rising and cooking. An oven thermometer is a useful tool if you suspect your oven's temperature setting isn't accurate, as variations can lead to unevenly baked squares. You’ll know they are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Be mindful not to overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture instead of the tender squares we’re aiming for. Stir until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Letting the batter rest for a few minutes before baking can also help improve the texture, allowing the baking soda to activate fully.

Ingredients

For the Breakfast Squares

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cool, slice into squares and serve.

Pro Tips

For a different flavor twist, try adding a tablespoon of nut butter before baking. It adds a rich taste and extra creaminess!

Storage and Freezing

To keep your Cinnamon Banana Breakfast Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. However, if you want to enjoy them for longer, they freeze beautifully. Allow the squares to cool completely, then slice them and wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to eat, simply remove a square from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat. If you prefer them fresh from the oven, a brief re-bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes will rejuvenate their texture.

Creative Serving Suggestions

These breakfast squares are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a satisfying breakfast, try serving them warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for added protein. If you're in the mood for something sweet, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a delightful visual and taste contrast.

You can also adapt the recipe by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit—such as cranberries or raisins—before baking for extra flavor. For a seasonal twist, try adding pumpkin spice or nutmeg to your cinnamon for a cozy variation during the fall months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute honey with a vegan option?

Yes, you can use maple syrup for a vegan-friendly alternative.

→ How should I store these breakfast squares?

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

→ Can I freeze the breakfast squares?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can omit the walnuts or replace them with chocolate chips, pecans, or any nuts you prefer.