Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup almond milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a wholesome breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are a perfect choice. They're not only easy to make but are also packed with flavor and nutrients. I enjoy preparing them in advance, so I can grab one on busy mornings. The delightful combination of vanilla and almond makes each bite feel like a treat without the guilt. Plus, they are a great way to fuel my day with energy and can easily be tailored to my taste preferences.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:34:11.843Z

My journey to perfecting these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares began during a busy week when I struggled to find time for breakfast. I experimented with different oats, nuts, and flavors until I landed on this delicious combination that keeps me energized throughout the morning.

The method really shines through when you let the squares cool completely before slicing. This not only helps them hold their shape but also enhances the flavors, making them more enjoyable overall. Now, they’re a staple in my breakfast rotation!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Nutty almond flavor that complements the vanilla beautifully
Great for making ahead and easy to store
Healthy and filling, perfect for busy mornings

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares plays a crucial role in not only flavor but also texture. Rolled oats serve as the backbone, providing a hearty base while keeping the squares chewy. Almond butter adds richness and healthy fats, helping to bind the mixture together without the need for additional oils or butter. When choosing almond butter, opt for the natural variety without added sugars or oils, as this will enhance the flavor and maintain a wholesome profile.

The choice between honey or maple syrup can subtly change the taste of your squares. Honey adds a floral sweetness and a slightly sticky texture, which helps in binding the ingredients together. On the other hand, maple syrup introduces a warm, caramel-like flavor that can complement the nutty aspects of the almond butter. If you are making these squares for someone who follows a vegan diet, maple syrup is the perfect option.

Baking Techniques

When baking, make sure to monitor the squares closely as they approach the 25-minute mark. The key indicator that they are done is when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and feels set rather than wobbly. If they appear too soft at this stage, bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, checking regularly to avoid overbaking. This will ensure you achieve a perfectly chewy texture without making them dry.

Cooling is just as important as baking; allow the squares to cool completely in the pan for at least 15 minutes to firm up. If you cut into them too early, they may crumble and fall apart. Lifting the baked mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper is a simple trick to easily transfer them, allowing for clean, even squares. If you prefer thicker squares, consider using a 9x5-inch loaf pan instead.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking experience.

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup almond milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can proceed to prepare the mixture.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for best results.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, almond milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Add Sliced Almonds

Gently fold in the sliced almonds into the mixture.

Pour and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares!

Pro Tips

For added sweetness, consider mixing in some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. You can also swap almond butter for peanut butter if you prefer that flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Breakfast Squares are ideal for meal prepping. You can prepare a batch on the weekend and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the cooled squares into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, making it easy to grab a quick breakfast on busy days.

Reheating is straightforward; simply pop a square in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. If you prefer a bit of crunch, reheat them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. This not only warms them up but also restores some of the original texture for that delightful fresh-baked feel.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize these squares based on your taste preferences. Instead of sliced almonds, you can experiment with chopped walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor. For a dash of sweetness, try adding dark chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries or raisins to the mix. Just be sure to adjust the wet ingredients slightly if you add more dry ingredients to keep the texture balanced.

Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also elevate the flavor profile. Start with a 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon mixed into your dry ingredients for an added warmth that complements the vanilla. Alternatively, for a tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut or even a hint of almond extract in place of half the vanilla for a more pronounced almond flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these breakfast squares nut-free?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter or a nut-free spread.

→ How should I store the breakfast squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them individually and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to the recipe for extra flavor?

Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or some chocolate chips to the mixture for a different flavor profile.