Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup almond milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares. They are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious, providing a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients to fuel my morning. I usually make a batch at the beginning of the week, and they keep well in the fridge, making breakfast a breeze during those busy mornings. The combination of oats, almonds, and a hint of vanilla creates a flavor that I just can't resist. Plus, they are easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins!

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:10:14.281Z

When I first tried making these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, I was skeptical about the texture. However, after playing around with the baking time and ingredients, I found the perfect balance. Using rolled oats gives them a hearty base, while the almond butter adds just the right amount of creaminess. I recommend letting them cool completely before cutting, as it helps them firm up nicely.

These squares are not only a breakfast option but also make a great snack for any time of day. I often grab one before a workout, and it provides me with sustained energy. The addition of sliced almonds gives them a delightful crunch that I can't get enough of!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutty almond flavor with a hint of vanilla
Perfectly chewy texture that's satisfying
Great for meal prep, making mornings easier

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares is rolled oats, which provide not only a satisfying chew but also a wealth of fiber and nutrients to keep you full. Rolled oats absorb moisture well, ensuring your squares have a great texture without being too dry or crumbly. Make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats if you're preparing them for someone with gluten sensitivities, as cross-contamination can occur with regular oats.

Almond butter is another key player in this recipe, adding creaminess and healthy fats that enhance the overall flavor and texture. It serves as a binding agent, helping to hold the mixture together while also contributing to the squares' nutty taste. If you're allergic to almonds, feel free to substitute with another nut butter like sunflower seed butter or peanut butter, although this may alter the final flavor profile slightly.

Baking Tips for Perfection

When transferring the mixture to your baking dish, take time to press it down firmly, creating an even layer. This step is crucial; otherwise, your squares may crumble when cut. Use a spatula or the back of a measuring cup to ensure it's compact. A well-pressed mixture helps achieve a chewier texture rather than a crumbly one, which can sometimes occur if the mixture is too loose.

Keep an eye on your squares while baking! The exact baking time can vary slightly based on your oven's performance. Look for golden edges and a center that is just set but not overly firm. If you overbake them, they can dry out and lose that wonderful chewy texture you’re aiming for. If you're unsure, it's better to check a couple of minutes early.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares:

Ingredients

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

Make sure all the ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your breakfast squares:

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 mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, almond milk, vanilla extract, sliced almonds, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well blended.

Transfer to baking dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Bake

Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.

Cool and cut

Allow to cool completely in the pan before transferring to a cutting board. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in dried fruits or chocolate chips. They can also be served with yogurt or fresh fruit on top.

Storage and Meal Prep

These breakfast squares are excellent for meal prep! After cooling completely, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual squares wrapped in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer, making them a convenient grab-and-go option.

To reheat frozen squares, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. You can enjoy them as is or add a swirl of almond butter on top to bring back that creamy richness!

Customizing Your Squares

The beauty of these breakfast squares lies in their versatility. While the base recipe is fantastic on its own, you can easily customize it with your favorite mix-ins. Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a chewy texture or chocolate chips for a sweet treat. Fresh ingredients like mashed bananas or even grated carrots can add unique flavors and nutrients, allowing you to tailor it to your palate.

For a bit of crunch or additional flavor, seeds like chia or flaxseed make excellent additions. They can also boost the nutritional profile of your breakfast squares. Just be sure not to overload the mixture; a few tablespoons of these extras will suffice to maintain the ideal texture without compromising the integrity of the recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just wrap them individually.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a scoop of protein powder for a nutritious boost.