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; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking powder; Chopped dried fruit; Choco chips; Additional almond slices

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares. They are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep me energized throughout the morning. The combination of oats, almonds, and vanilla creates a delightful flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. Plus, they are super easy to make ahead of time, making breakfast a breeze on busy mornings. Trust me; once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your morning routine!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:01:08.442Z

When I first attempted these breakfast squares, I wanted something that would not only taste good but also keep me full until lunch. After several trials, I found that toasting the almonds really enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. I enjoyed experimenting with different ratios of oats and almonds to get the perfect texture.

Another tip I learned is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This ensures they hold their shape better and makes for a cleaner slice. I've also enjoyed varying the spices, adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm touch. Every variation has been a hit in my house!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutty almond flavor combined with sweet vanilla essence
Perfectly chewy texture that satisfies cravings
Great for on-the-go breakfasts or snack time

      

The Importance of Oats

Oats are a fantastic base for breakfast squares, providing essential fiber and nutrients that promote satiety and digestive health. The rolled oats in this recipe not only contribute to a chewy texture but also help bind the mixture together, creating a hearty feel. When mixed with the almond butter and sweetener, the oats absorb moisture and puff up slightly during baking, ensuring each square is filling and satisfying.

Using rolled oats specifically allows these squares to achieve the perfect balance between chewiness and structure. Quick oats, while faster to prepare, can result in a mushier texture. If you're out of rolled oats, steel-cut oats can be used in a pinch but will require longer cooking times and may alter the overall texture.

Nut Butter Choice

Almond butter is not just a delicious option—it's a nutrient-dense one too. Packed with healthy fats and protein, it helps keep you energized throughout the day. If you're looking for a different flavor or have a nut allergy, feel free to substitute with sunflower seed butter or cashew butter. Just keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly change the flavor profile of the breakfast squares.

When incorporating almond butter, ensure it is well-stirred before measuring. Natural almond butter can separate, and if it’s too oily, it can impact the texture of your squares. If you prefer a thicker texture, using a creamy almond butter is ideal, while crunchy options can add an enjoyable texture contrast.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These breakfast squares are perfect for meal prep. After slicing, store them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for longer shelf life. If freezing, make sure to separate the squares with parchment paper, which will allow them to be easily taken out one at a time without thawing the whole batch.

Reheating is simple; just pop a square in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warm. For a slightly crispier texture, you can toast them in a toaster oven. This way, you’ll retain their chewy nature while enjoying a warm breakfast with that delightful nutty aroma.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares:

Main Ingredients

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

Optional Toppings

Chopped dried fruit
Choco chips
Additional almond slices

Feel free to get creative with the toppings!

Directions

Follow these simple steps to make 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 bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Mix everything together until well combined.

Bake the Mixture

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious squares as a breakfast option or quick snack!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using flavored almond butter or substituting half of the oats with a mix of other grains like quinoa or millet.

Serving Suggestions

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares can be enjoyed on their own, but pairing them with fresh fruits like sliced bananas or berries can elevate the meal and add extra nutrients. A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side could also introduce creaminess and a protein boost, making your breakfast even more fulfilling.

For a wholesome dessert twist, consider serving them with a drizzle of warm almond butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon. You could also transform them into a parfait by layering the squares with yogurt and your favorite fruits in a glass.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different add-ins to customize these breakfast squares! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can give a warm flavor without any added calories. You could also incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical twist or mix in some protein powder for an extra nutrition punch.

If you love a little sweetness, include dried fruits like cranberries or apricots in the mixture. Just be cautious with the sugar content in your sweetener and the added fruit, especially if you're monitoring sugar intake.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your breakfast squares turn out too crumbly, it may be due to insufficient almond butter or a lack of binding moisture. To remedy this, you can add a small amount of additional almond butter or a little water and re-mix before baking. Conversely, if they’re too soggy, try reducing the liquid in your mix next time or extending baking time by a few minutes until golden brown on the edges.

Also, let the squares cool completely in the pan before cutting to ensure clean edges and better texture. If you find them sticking to the pan, make sure to line it adequately with parchment paper or grease it with a bit of coconut oil before pouring in the mixture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter based on your preference.

→ How do I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for longer shelf life.

→ Can I make them gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

You can add spices like cinnamon or cocoa powder, or even mix in some dried fruit or chocolate chips.