Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups rolled oats; ½ cup almond butter; ¼ cup honey or maple syrup; ½ cup chopped almonds; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ½ cup almond milk

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares! They are not just healthy but also incredibly delicious and easy to make. Combining the nuttiness of almonds with the warm notes of vanilla, these squares offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for busy mornings, I can grab one on the go or enjoy it with a cup of coffee. Plus, knowing that I’m fueling my body with wholesome ingredients makes me feel great about my morning routine.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:40:12.531Z

Making these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares has become a weekend ritual in my home. I love experimenting with the ingredients, but I always return to the creamy almond butter and the fragrant vanilla extract, which truly elevate the flavor. The key is to let the mixture sit for a bit before baking; this helps the oats absorb the moisture, resulting in a chewy texture that I can't resist.

One specific tip I discovered is to store them in the fridge after they cool completely. They firm up nicely and turn into the perfect grab-and-go breakfast option. I often add a drizzle of honey or a smear of yogurt on top, and it takes these squares to the next level!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutty and sweet flavor combination that satisfies your cravings
Filled with wholesome ingredients for sustained energy
Perfect for meal prep, making mornings effortless

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares lies in the choice of ingredients. Rolled oats form the base, providing hearty texture and a good source of fiber that keeps you full longer. Almond butter adds creaminess and healthy fats, making these squares not only satisfying but also nutrient-dense. When selecting almond butter, opt for a natural variety without added sugars or hydrogenated oils to enhance the health benefits.

Honey or maple syrup serves as the sweetener, but this is where you can get creative. If you're looking for a lower glycemic index option, consider substituting agave nectar or even date syrup. Each sweetener brings its unique flavor; honey adds a floral note, while maple syrup imparts a rich, woodsy taste. Keeping your sweetener to a minimum ensures these squares remain wholesome and not overly sweet.

Perfecting Your Technique

When mixing the ingredients, it's crucial to achieve the right consistency. You want the mixture to hold together without being overly wet. If you find it too crumbly, add a little more almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together. Conversely, if it's too wet, a few extra oats can help balance it out. This technique ensures that your squares have the right bite and won’t fall apart after baking.

Baking time is also vital for achieving the perfect texture. Keep an eye on the squares during the last 5 minutes of baking; the top should look golden brown, and the edges will feel firm to the touch. If you're unsure, you can use a toothpick to test the center—if it comes out clean, they're ready to cool. Allowing the squares to cool completely is essential for optimal slicing; this will help them set properly and maintain their shape.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious breakfast squares:

Ingredients

1 ½ cups rolled oats
½ cup almond butter
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
½ cup chopped almonds
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ cup almond milk

With everything ready, you're set to make these tasty squares!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, almond butter, honey, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.

Add Almond Milk

Pour in the almond milk and stir until the mixture is moist and holds together.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool completely before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy your wholesome breakfast squares!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can mix in some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.

Storing and Freezing

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are fantastic for meal prep. Once cooled and cut, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

If you want to batch them for future breakfasts, freezing is also a great option. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply pop one in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or let it thaw overnight in the fridge for a ready-to-go breakfast option.

Serving Suggestions

While these breakfast squares are delicious on their own, you can elevate them with simple toppings. Drizzle a bit of almond milk or nut butter on top right before serving for an extra boost of creaminess. Adding fresh fruits like sliced bananas or berries can also enhance both flavor and nutrition.

For those who enjoy a protein-rich breakfast, crumbling these squares over Greek yogurt makes for a delightful parfait. You can layer them with yogurt, honey, and your favorite fruits for an aesthetically pleasing and nutritious start to your day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for a different twist.

→ How do I store these breakfast squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well; just wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding chocolate chips, spices like nutmeg, or even shredded coconut for extra taste and texture.