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

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day on a healthy note, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares have become my go-to breakfast. They're easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients like oats and almond butter. Each square provides the right balance of fiber and protein to keep me satisfied through the morning. With just a hint of vanilla and the crunch of almonds, I find them both delicious and nutritious. Perfect for meal prep, I can make a batch on the weekend and enjoy them all week long!

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:28:14.539Z

I have always been on the lookout for quick and healthy breakfast options, and I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to make my mornings simpler. The mix of oats, almond butter, and a touch of vanilla creates a lovely flavor profile that I just can’t resist. Moreover, making these squares in advance saves me precious time during busy weekdays.

The added crunch from the almonds not only enhances the texture but also packs in extra nutrition. I learned that lightly toasting the almonds before mixing them in elevates the flavor even more. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one square!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutty almond flavor combined with sweet vanilla
Great for meal prep, easy to grab on busy mornings
Healthy and filling, providing lasting energy

      

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares serves a specific purpose. The rolled oats provide a hearty base, delivering fiber and complex carbohydrates to keep you full. Almond butter not only adds a rich, nutty flavor but also contributes healthy fats and additional protein, which are crucial for sustained energy. When choosing almond butter, look for a natural variety without added sugars or oils for the healthiest option.

Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup add not just sweetness but also moisture, which aids in binding the ingredients together. If you prefer a less sweet square, you can reduce the amount of sweetener and substitute with mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce to maintain the texture while lowering sugar levels. Almond milk, a staple for its creaminess, can be swapped with any plant-based milk; just ensure it's unsweetened to maintain balance.

The combination of baking powder and salt is essential for achieving the right texture. The baking powder acts as a leavening agent; it creates a slight rise during baking, giving the squares a fluffy texture while still being firm enough to hold together. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats to ensure no cross-contamination.

Tips for Perfect Baking

When you pour the mixture into the baking pan, make sure to spread it out evenly. An offset spatula works well for this as it allows for smooth leveling. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash more almond milk to loosen it. Keep an eye on the edges while baking; they should turn golden brown to indicate that the squares are ready. Overbaking can lead to dry squares, so check around the 20-minute mark for doneness.

After baking, it's crucial to let the squares cool completely in the pan to avoid crumbling when cutting. If you're in a hurry, placing the pan in the fridge for about 15 minutes can speed up the cooling process without compromising texture. Use a sharp knife to cut them into bars to ensure clean edges, which makes for a more appealing presentation.

To enhance the flavor, consider toasting the chopped almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the mix. This simple step brings out their natural oils and elevates the nutty flavor in the finished product. Also, if you like a bit of additional crunch, feel free to fold in some dark chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for a sweet twist.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients to make your delicious breakfast squares:

Ingredients

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

Mix all the ingredients well to create a delicious breakfast bar mixture.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your breakfast squares:

Prepare the Oven and Pan

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and chopped almonds.

Combine Both Mixtures

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.

Bake the Squares

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool completely before cutting them into bars. Enjoy!

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

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some dried fruit or coconut flakes. You can also swap out the almond butter for your favorite nut butter.

Storage and Meal Prep

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are ideal for meal prepping as they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

For easy grab-and-go breakfast options during the week, consider wrapping each square individually in parchment paper. This not only helps with portion control but also makes it easy to take them on busy mornings. You can also pack them in lunch boxes for a healthy snack at work or school.

If you want to mix things up with flavors, feel free to swap in different nut butters, such as cashew or peanut butter. You can also experiment with mix-ins like shredded coconut or seeds, adjusting the dry ingredient measurements as necessary to maintain the right consistency. This flexibility allows you to customize the squares to your taste and dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

These breakfast squares are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with various toppings. Try drizzling a bit of extra almond butter or honey on top for added richness. Fresh berries or sliced bananas make a great accompaniment, adding freshness and a pop of color that enhances both flavor and presentation.

Additionally, serve the squares alongside a bowl of yogurt, which offers a creamy contrast and additional protein. This combination makes for a satisfying breakfast or post-workout snack. For an extra layer of texture, consider sprinkling some granola or chia seeds on top of the yogurt before adding the squares for crunch.

If you're planning a brunch gathering, these squares cut beautifully into bite-sized pieces for a wholesome, shareable treat. Pair them with coffee or tea for a cozy morning spread. You could also present them with a side of fruit salad, making for a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, any nut butter like peanut or cashew can be used.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can last up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the almond milk is dairy-free.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap each square individually and store them in a freezer-safe container.