How to make healthy banana yogurt at home. What are the benefits of this sugar-free snack. Why is it perfect for babies and toddlers. How to customize the recipe for different tastes. What are the best storage methods for banana yogurt.

The Perfect Blend: Bananas and Yogurt for a Healthy Snack

Banana yogurt is a beloved treat, often found in the baby food section of grocery stores. However, creating this delightful snack at home offers numerous advantages, particularly in terms of controlling sugar content and customizing flavors. This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and just five minutes of preparation time, making it an ideal choice for busy parents or anyone seeking a quick, nutritious snack.

Why Choose Homemade Banana Yogurt?

Homemade banana yogurt allows you to:

• Control the sugar content
• Customize flavors to personal preferences
• Ensure the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients
• Save money compared to store-bought options
• Avoid unnecessary additives or preservatives

Nutritional Powerhouse: The Benefits of Yogurt for Growing Bodies

Yogurt is an excellent food choice for babies and toddlers, packed with essential nutrients that support healthy growth and development. What makes yogurt so beneficial for young children?

• Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair
• Healthy fats: Essential for brain development
• Calcium: Crucial for strong bones and teeth
• Probiotics: Promote a healthy gut microbiome

By combining yogurt with ripe bananas, you create a snack that’s not only nutritious but also naturally sweet and appealing to young palates.

Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Treat

To create this easy banana yogurt recipe, you’ll need just a few key ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana (with brown spots for optimal sweetness)
• 1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon or orange juice (optional, but recommended for storage)

Optional Add-ins for Flavor Enhancement

Customize your banana yogurt with these optional ingredients:

• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon peanut or almond butter
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds
• 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup (if additional sweetness is desired)

Quick and Easy Preparation Method

Creating this delicious banana yogurt is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

1. Peel the ripe banana and add it to a blender.
2. Add the plain whole milk Greek yogurt to the blender.
3. Include any optional add-ins for extra flavor or nutrition.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve immediately or portion into storage containers for later enjoyment.

No Blender? No Problem!

If you don’t have access to a blender, you can still make this recipe by hand. Simply mash the banana as smoothly as possible using a fork, then stir it into the yogurt until well combined. The smoother you can mash the banana, the better the final texture will be.

Storage Solutions: Keeping Your Banana Yogurt Fresh

Can banana yogurt be prepared in advance? Absolutely! Here are some storage options to consider:

• Refrigerator storage: Portion the yogurt into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer storage: Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze. When ready to serve, thaw 2-4 cubes in a bowl in the refrigerator.

Is discoloration a concern? The addition of lemon or orange juice helps prevent excessive browning, but some slight color change may occur. Rest assured, the yogurt remains safe to eat even if it browns slightly. If the color change is a concern, consider making smaller batches for immediate consumption.

Customization Options: Making Banana Yogurt Your Own

One of the great advantages of homemade banana yogurt is the ability to tailor it to individual preferences. How can you customize this recipe?

• Experiment with different add-ins like vanilla extract, nutmeg, or a dash of cocoa powder.
• Try using different types of yogurt, such as coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.
• Add a handful of fresh berries or a spoonful of jam for extra fruity flavor.
• Incorporate finely chopped nuts or granola for added texture.

Serving Suggestions: Elevating Your Banana Yogurt Experience

While delicious on its own, banana yogurt can be served in various ways to keep things interesting:

• In a small bowl as a simple snack or dessert
• Packed in a reusable pouch for on-the-go eating
• Topped with granola or diced berries for added crunch and flavor
• Used as a dip for fresh fruit slices or whole-grain crackers
• Layered with other fruits to create a colorful parfait

Beyond Bananas: Exploring Other Fruit Yogurt Combinations

While banana yogurt is a classic favorite, don’t be afraid to experiment with other fruit combinations. Some popular alternatives include:

• Strawberry yogurt: Blend fresh or frozen strawberries with yogurt for a vibrant pink treat.
• Apple yogurt: Combine grated or finely chopped apple with yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Blueberry yogurt: Mix in fresh or thawed frozen blueberries for a burst of antioxidants.
• Mango yogurt: Blend ripe mango chunks with yogurt for a tropical twist.

By rotating through different fruit options, you can provide a variety of flavors and nutrients to keep meals and snacks exciting.

The Importance of Whole Milk Yogurt for Young Children

When preparing banana yogurt for babies and toddlers, why is it important to use whole milk yogurt? Full-fat dairy products provide essential nutrients for growing bodies:

• Supports brain development
• Aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
• Provides a feeling of satiety, helping to regulate appetite
• Contributes to healthy weight gain in infants and young children

For older children and adults, lower-fat yogurt options can be substituted based on dietary preferences or needs.

Banana Yogurt as a Versatile Ingredient

Beyond being a delicious snack on its own, banana yogurt can be used as a versatile ingredient in various recipes. How can you incorporate this nutritious mixture into other dishes?

• Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles
• Blend into smoothies for added creaminess and nutrition
• Incorporate into muffin or quick bread recipes for moisture and flavor
• Freeze in popsicle molds for a cool, creamy treat
• Use as a healthier alternative to frosting on cupcakes or cakes

Addressing Common Concerns

Is banana yogurt suitable for all ages? While this recipe is particularly beneficial for babies and toddlers, it can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages. For those with specific dietary concerns, consider the following adaptations:

• Dairy-free: Use a plant-based yogurt alternative
• Low-sugar diets: Omit any additional sweeteners and rely on the natural sweetness of ripe bananas
• Allergies: Be cautious with add-ins like nuts or chia seeds if allergies are a concern

Always consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist if you have specific dietary questions or concerns.

The Role of Banana Yogurt in a Balanced Diet

How does banana yogurt fit into a balanced diet for children and adults? This nutritious snack offers several benefits:

• Provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats
• Offers a natural source of energy from fruit sugars and complex carbohydrates
• Contributes to daily calcium intake for bone health
• Supports digestive health through probiotics in yogurt
• Serves as a satisfying alternative to processed snacks

When incorporated as part of a varied diet, banana yogurt can contribute to overall nutritional well-being for individuals of all ages.

Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits

Introducing homemade banana yogurt to children can play a role in developing positive eating habits. How does this simple snack contribute to a healthy relationship with food?

• Teaches children about natural, wholesome ingredients
• Encourages participation in food preparation
• Demonstrates that healthy foods can be delicious
• Provides an opportunity to discuss nutrition and the importance of balanced meals

By involving children in the process of making banana yogurt, you can foster an interest in nutrition and cooking that may last a lifetime.

Comparing Homemade vs. Store-Bought Banana Yogurt

While store-bought banana yogurt offers convenience, homemade versions provide several advantages. How do the two compare?

While store-bought options can be convenient, making banana yogurt at home allows for greater control over ingredients, nutrition, and flavor.

Environmental Considerations

In addition to health and taste benefits, making banana yogurt at home can have positive environmental impacts. How does homemade banana yogurt contribute to sustainability?

• Reduces packaging waste from individual yogurt containers
• Allows for the use of locally sourced or organic ingredients
• Provides an opportunity to use overripe bananas, reducing food waste
• Encourages the use of reusable storage containers

By making conscious choices in our food preparation, we can contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying delicious and nutritious snacks.

Best Banana Yogurt (Sugar-Free, So Easy!)

Banana Yogurt is a staple of the baby food yogurt section, but it’s easy to make at home with less added sugars—and all of the flavors! This easy recipe requires just a few ingredients and 5 minutes so you can serve it up in no time.

Banana Yogurt

Yogurt is one of my favorite foods for babies and toddlers since it’s packed with nutrients including protein, healthy fats, calcium and probiotics. And since I know first hand that some littles one like it plain more than others, having a few easy ways to add flavor to it can be super helpful.

This Banana Yogurt has been a staple snack for my one year old…though I always have to make enough for my three year old too since she’s a fan as well!

This recipe makes enough for a few servings so you can store them in the fridge in a storage container and serve them a few days in a row, though you can also cut the recipe in half to make a smaller portion.

Ingredients You Need

To make this easy yogurt recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Ripe banana: Choose one with brown spots to ensure it has good flavor and sweetness.
• Plain whole milk Greek yogurt
• Lemon or orange juice: This is optional, but recommended if you plan to store this at all before serving.
• Optional add-ins: Cinnamon, peanut or almond butter, and/or chia seeds

TIP: This is a great baby yogurt since it’s flavorful and easy to customize exactly how you and the kids like it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is super simple. I prefer to use a blender to make it very smooth, but you can also do it by hand. Scroll down to the bottom of this post for the full recipe.

1. Peel the banana.
2. Add it to the blender with the yogurt.
3. Blend smooth, adding any optional add-ins.
4. Serve or portion into storage containers.

TIP: To make this without a blender, mash the banana as smooth as you can with a fork. The smoother you can mash it, the better the final texture. Stir it into the yogurt until very smooth.

Can I make this Banana Yogurt ahead of time?

Yes, you can portion it into storage containers and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze in an ice cube tray and thaw 2-4 for a portion at a time in a bowl in the fridge. Stir after the mixture is thawed as it will likely separate a bit.

Will my yogurt turn brown?

The lemon or orange juice should help it from getting very brown, but it may brown a smidge. (In my experience, it doesn’t brown much even after 24 hours in the fridge in a storage container.)

It’s safe to eat, no matter the color, but if the color bothers you or your child, you can make a smaller batch and eat it right after serving when the color will be lighter.

This, in addition to our Strawberry Yogurt and Apple Yogurt, is one of our very favorite easy snacks to share.

Best Tips for Success

• The blended mixture will be a bit brown, but the lemon or orange juice will help it from becoming too brown. (It’s safe to eat even if it browns though.)
• Use bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
• Choose whole milk yogurt to ensure it is creamy and flavorful, and also has the healthy fats that little kids need for proper development.
• Serve in a small bowl, in a reusable pouch, or topped with granola or diced berries.
• This yogurt is currently one of our go-to bedtime snacks, especially for my one year old.

Related Recipes

I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe, so please comment and rate it below if you make it!

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Author Amy Palanjian

Cuisine American

Course Breakfast

Calories 112kcal

Servings 2

• ▢ 1 small very ripe banana (with brown spots; about 1 cup sliced)
• ▢ 1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
• ▢ 1 teaspoon fresh lemon or orange juice
• ▢ Optional Add-Ins: ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, 1 tablespoon peanut or almond butter, 1 teaspoon chia seeds, and/or 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup

• Place the banana, yogurt, and lemon or orange juice into a blender. Add any optional add-ins. Blend smooth.

• Serve or portion into storage containers and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze in an ice cube tray and thaw 2-4 for a portion at a time in a bowl in the fridge. Stir after the mixture is thawed as it will separate a bit.

• The blended mixture will be a bit browner than regular plain yogurt, but the lemon or orange juice will help it from becoming too brown. (It’s safe to eat even if it browns though.)
• Use bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
• Choose whole milk yogurt to ensure it’s creamy and flavorful, and also has the fat that little kids need for proper development.
• Serve in a small bowl, in a reusable pouch, or topped with granola or diced berries.

Calories: 112kcal, Carbohydrates: 17g, Protein: 11g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 5mg, Sodium: 37mg, Potassium: 355mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 11g, Vitamin A: 42IU, Vitamin C: 6mg, Calcium: 113mg, Iron: 1mg

Tried this recipe?Rate in the comments and tag @yummytoddlerfood on IG!

This post was first published May 2020.

Banana Yogurt – Healthy Little Foodies

All Posts, by Date » Snacks and Desserts » Banana Yogurt

By: AmyPosted: Mar 5, 2018Updated: Apr 7, 2023

Jump to Recipe

This Banana Yogurt recipe is the perfect combination of creamy yogurt and sweet, ripe bananas, making for a satisfying and nutritious breakfast, snack or dessert.

Do you ever find yourself with overripe bananas and wonder what to do with them? Banana Bread, banana oatmeal cookies, baked bananas or banana fritters are great ways to use them. However, if you don’t feel like cooking or baking, blending them to make this delicious banana yogurt is an excellent choice.

Jump to:

• Reasons to Love this Recipe
• Video Tutorial
• Ingredients
• How to Make Banana Puree
• Recipe FAQs
• Other Yogurt Recipes…
• Banana Yogurt

Reasons to Love this Recipe

• Naturally Sweetened – The sweetness of the banana puree means that there is no need for any added sugars in this recipe, making it a healthier option than many store-bought flavoured yogurts.
• Easy – With only two main ingredients (and two optional added ingredients) this recipe is quick and easy to make.
• Versatile – Enjoy this banana yogurt on its own or use it as a base for other snacks such as parfaits or fruit dips.
• Customisable: Add different spices (such as cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, vanilla or nutmeg), nut butters, seeds and adjust the ratio of banana to yogurt to suit individual tastes.
• Great for All Ages: Perfect for baby-led weaning, spoon-feeding, toddlers, big kids and adults!

Video Tutorial

Ingredients

For the full recipe, with ingredient amounts, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Yogurt: Plain full-fat yogurt is best, either regular or Greek. For a dairy-free version, you can use any plant-based yogurt.
• Bananas: Ripe bananas work best as they provide the most natural sweetness.
• Peanut Butter (optional): Adds a nutty flavour, creamy texture and also provides a source of healthy fats and protein.
• Cinnamon (optional): Adds a warm, spiced flavour to the yogurt. Other options include cardamom, allspice, vanilla or nutmeg.

How to Make Banana Puree

Start by blending the bananas into a puree. I do this using a blender but you could use a hand blender or food processor. Alternatively, you could just mash the banana really well.

I love to add cinnamon to the banana mixture, my kids love it and so do I. I often add some natural peanut butter for added taste and an extra boost of protein. This is, of course, optional and you can miss it out or try other additions such as cardamom or vanilla.

I find the banana provides more than enough sweetness but if you want something sweeter then you could also add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Once you have your smooth, sweet and delicious banana mixture you simply mix it with the yoghurt. I treat this as a dessert and the banana to yoghurt ratio is reasonably high. You can easily play with the ratios if you want something less sweet.

I often pop it in the freezer for 15 mins before serving it, I feel it makes it thicker and creamier. This is of course completely optional.

Recipe FAQs

Should I use brown or yellow bananas to make banana yogurt?

I usually make this dessert when I have a glut of brown bananas to use up however you can also use yellow bananas. If you use brown bananas the yoghurt will be sweeter.

What yoghurt is the best to use?

I recommend using your favourite whole milk natural yoghurt. I’m a big fan of Greek yoghurt, I love how creamy it is and it works really well in this.

Can you store leftovers?

You can keep this banana yogurt in the fridge for up to 2 days. I would recommend adding around half a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to help prevent browning.

Is this suitable for babies?

Yogurt can be introduced once baby is ready to start solids, generally 6 months of age. Yogurt is often made from cow’s milk, which is a common food allergen in young children and so should be first introduced by serving a small quantity for the first few servings, and if there is no reaction, gradually increase the quantity.
Peanut butter is an optional ingredient in this recipe, which is also a common allergen that should be introduced separately, before combining it with this yogurt.

Other Yogurt Recipes…

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5 from 1 vote

Author: Amy

Banana Yogurt

A deliciously sweet and creamy dessert sweetened only with fruit.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

• ▢ 2 bananas SEE NOTE 1
• ▢ 1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional) *SEE NOTE 2
• ▢ ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional) *SEE NOTE 2
• ▢ 375ml (1½ cups) natural Greek yoghurt *SEE NOTE 3

• Add the banana, peanut butter and cinnamon to a blender and blend until smooth

• Add the banana puree to a mixing bowl and fold in the yoghurt until mixed through. 

1. You can use brown or yellow bananas for this. The browner the banana the sweeter the yoghurt. 
2. The peanut butter and cinnamon is optional. You can leave them out or replace with other additions such as vanilla or cardamom.
3. You can use any natural yoghurt you wish. I love natural greek yoghurt for this. 

Nutritional information is a ROUGH guide only, calculated using an online nutrition calculator. 

Calories: 132kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 52mg | Potassium: 369mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Vitamin C: 5. 1mg | Calcium: 113mg | Iron: 0.3mg

Course:Dessert

Cuisine:Western

Did you make this recipe?Tag me on Instagram
at @healthylittlefoodies or leave me a
comment & rating below.

Meet Amy

Amy Whiteford runs the blog Healthy Little Foodies. She is a mum to two, has a BSc (Hons) Food Science, PGDE Primary Education and a Certificate in Childhood Nutrition. She uses her experience and knowledge to create healthy and delicious recipes for kids. Explore the site for creative ideas, tips, and inspiration! Read more

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