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: 1 ½ cups rolled oats; ½ cup almond butter; ¼ cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup chopped almonds; ⅓ cup dried fruits (like cranberries or raisins); ¼ cup almond milk (or any other milk)

Highlighted under: Lightly Delicious

I love starting my day with a wholesome and satisfying breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares have become a favorite in my kitchen. Packed with oats and almond flavor, they provide the perfect balance of nutrition and taste. I can prep them in advance, and they're excellent for grabbing on the go. With a blend of natural sweetness from honey and the richness of almonds, they have everything I need to fuel my busy mornings. I’m excited to share this delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:28:13.728Z

When I first tried making these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious they turned out. I found that toasting the almonds before adding them to the mixture brings out their natural oils and amplifies their flavor. It's a small step that makes a big difference.

As someone who often rushes in the mornings, I appreciate how these squares can be made ahead of time and stored. They stay remarkably fresh and are perfect for grabbing as I head out the door. Trust me, your mornings will thank you!

Why You'll Love These Squares
Nutty almond flavor balanced with sweet vanilla essence
Healthy oats for lasting energy throughout the day
Quick to prepare and easy to store for busy mornings

The Role of Oats and Almonds

Rolled oats are the star ingredient in these breakfast squares, providing not only a hearty texture but also vital nutrients like fiber and protein. The fiber content helps keep you full longer, making these squares an excellent choice for busy mornings. Additionally, the oats absorb moisture during baking, ensuring a chewy yet satisfying bite. I recommend checking the consistency before spreading the mixture; it should hold together without being too dry or too wet.

Chopped almonds contribute both flavor and crunch, enhancing the overall eating experience. They also introduce healthy fats, which are essential for sustained energy levels throughout the day. If you find yourself short on almonds, walnuts or pecans can easily substitute, as they will yield a similar nutty taste. Just be cautious about the overall size; imagine munching on small bits rather than large chunks for a better texture throughout each square.

Baking and Storage Tips

When spreading the mixture in the baking dish, be sure to press it down firmly to create a compact texture. This step helps the squares hold their shape after baking. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start turning a golden brown, which typically takes around 25 minutes. If they seem to rise too much or puff up, you may need to reduce the oven temperature slightly and check for doneness earlier.

Once baked, allow the squares to cool for at least 10 minutes in the dish before cutting. This allows them to set further and reduces the risk of crumbling. For optimal freshness, store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate them for longer shelf life. For freezing, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be thawed overnight in the fridge for a quick breakfast option.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

1 ½ cups rolled oats
½ cup almond butter
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup chopped almonds
⅓ cup dried fruits (like cranberries or raisins)
¼ cup almond milk (or any other milk)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh and within their expiration dates for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare 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.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Add Nuts and Fruits

Fold in the chopped almonds and dried fruits into the mixture, and then pour in the almond milk. Mix until evenly distributed.

Bake the Squares

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

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the dish for 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cut them into squares.

Enjoy these delicious breakfast squares warm or store them in an airtight container for later.

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture. You can also swap in other nuts or seeds based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares make a wonderful grab-and-go option, but they can also be elevated for a more substantial meal. Try topping them with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits like berries or banana slices for added flavor and nutrients. A drizzle of extra honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance their sweetness and make them feel extra special.

For a more decadent treat, consider melting some dark chocolate and drizzling it over the top after baking and cooling. This adds a rich contrast to the nutty and slightly sweet flavors of the squares. You can also serve them warm with a side of almond milk or your favorite latte for a comforting breakfast experience.

Flavor Variations

While the base recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Swap dried fruits like cranberries for chopped dried apricots or figs for a completely different profile. You could also experiment with adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or even a pinch of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.

Another fun variation is to incorporate different nut butters; sunflower seed butter or cashew butter can replace almond butter, accommodating various dietary needs, especially for those with nut allergies. Just keep in mind that each different butter may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so adjust the quantities of sweeteners if needed to balance the final product.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?

Yes, peanut butter works well as a substitute if you prefer its flavor or have an almond allergy.

→ How should I store the breakfast squares?

Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! These squares freeze nicely. Just wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I use instead of honey for a vegan version?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly alternative.