Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 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; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares. They're not only delicious but also incredibly filling, providing a great balance of flavor and nutrition. Each square is packed with wholesome ingredients, making them an excellent choice for busy mornings. I often prepare a batch on the weekend to enjoy throughout the week for a quick and satisfying breakfast. With a hint of vanilla and crunchy almonds, these squares are a delightful way to fuel my day.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:46:13.347Z

Creating these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares was a delightful experience. I experimented with oats and almond butter to find the perfect texture and flavor combination. The addition of vanilla extract makes them irresistibly aromatic, while the almonds provide a satisfying crunch that I absolutely adore.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This ensures they hold together better, allowing you to grab one on your way out the door without any crumbling. Trust me, you'll want to keep these in regular rotation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty almond flavor combined with creamy vanilla
Healthy oats that keep you full and satisfied
Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go breakfasts

      

The Role of Oats and Nuts

Rolled oats are the cornerstone of these breakfast squares, providing both texture and a hearty base. They are not only filling but also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a sense of fullness throughout the morning. When choosing oats, ensure you use rolled oats as they help achieve the right consistency—quick oats might result in a mushy texture, while steel-cut oats won't bind as well.

Chopped almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile of these squares. Additionally, they provide healthy fats and protein, making these squares a well-rounded breakfast option. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a unique twist that complements the vanilla flavor.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

Achieving the perfect bake is crucial for the texture of these breakfast squares. Bake them until the edges are a rich golden brown; this visual cue indicates that the mixture has set properly. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly, consider covering them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the center to firm up.

Cooling is just as important as baking—allow the squares to cool for about 15 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them firm up, making them easier to slice without crumbling. If they seem too soft after cooling, they might benefit from an additional time in the fridge to help them set further.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your 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
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your breakfast squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the oats, almond butter, honey, almond milk, vanilla extract, chopped almonds, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Bake the Mixture

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the baked mixture to cool in the dish for about 15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares.

Enjoy your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares fresh or store them in an airtight container for later!

Pro Tips

You can customize these squares by adding dried fruits or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Just be mindful of the added sugars if you choose to include sweet ingredients.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares store well in an airtight container for up to a week, making them an excellent option for meal prep. You can cut the squares and layer them with parchment paper in between to keep them fresh and prevent sticking. If you need them for longer, consider freezing them—simply wrap each square individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating is easy too! Just warm a square in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or pop it in a toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through. This not only revives the flavors but also gives them a slightly crisp exterior.

Delicious Variations to Try

While the original recipe is fantastic, feel free to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can introduce a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness. Alternatively, throw in some mini chocolate chips for a more indulgent variation that kids will love.

For those who enjoy a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping out the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice to give it a seasonal twist. These small changes can keep your breakfast routine exciting and cater to different palates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nut butters?

Yes, feel free to substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter as per your preference.

→ How long will these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! These squares freeze well. Just wrap them individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

→ Are these squares gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is completely gluten-free.