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 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup almond milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares. They are packed with wholesome ingredients that provide a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. I developed this recipe to create a quick breakfast option that I can prepare ahead of time, ensuring I have a delicious and healthy choice on busy mornings. The scent of vanilla and almonds fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist indulging in these delightful squares any time of day!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:43:10.804Z

During my countless breakfast experiments, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of oats, almonds, and a touch of vanilla that transformed my mornings. I wanted something satisfying yet simple, and these squares deliver exactly that. The texture is chewy, combined with a nice crunch from the nuts, making every bite enjoyable.

The secret to their delightful flavor lies in using pure almond extract and toasting the oats lightly before mixing. This simple step enhances the nutty flavor, creating a breakfast square that will keep you fueled throughout your busy morning!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutty almond flavor blended with sweet vanilla aroma
Chewy texture complemented by crunchy oats
Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on the go

      

The Role of Oats and Almonds

Oats are the backbone of these breakfast squares, providing not only a chewy texture but also a substantial dose of fiber and nutrients. Rolled oats work best for this recipe because they maintain their structure during baking while absorbing the moisture from the wet ingredients. This creates a satisfying base that holds everything together. You can certainly experiment with quick oats, but be cautious; they may create a softer texture that could lead to a crumbly result.

Almonds add not just flavor, but also a delightful crunch to the squares. When using chopped almonds, opting for raw or lightly toasted ones can enhance their nutty essence without overpowering the sweet vanilla notes. If you're looking to save on calorie count or cater to nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can serve as an excellent substitute while retaining some of that desired crunch.

Perfecting Your Baking Technique

Ensuring even baking is key to achieving those desirable golden-brown edges. An 8x8-inch pan is ideal for spreading the mixture evenly, increasing the likelihood of a cohesive texture throughout. If you prefer thicker squares, you can use a smaller pan, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the squares towards the end of the baking process; look for a golden top and a slightly firm center which indicates they're fully cooked.

Cooling time is crucial before slicing. If you rush this step, the squares may crumble when cut. After removing them from the oven, let them cool in the pan for at least 10 to 15 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Allowing them to cool completely outside of the pan will help solidify the texture, making for cleaner cuts and better presentation.

Ingredients

For the Squares

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

Mix the dry and wet ingredients thoroughly before baking.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond flour, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix honey or maple syrup, almond butter, almond milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.

Combine and Add Nuts

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold in chopped almonds until everything is fully combined.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let it cool before slicing into squares.

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

Pro Tips

For added sweetness, sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top before baking!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are fantastic for meal prep. Once sliced, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze individual squares in a freezer-safe bag. If freezing, try to layer parchment paper between squares to prevent them from sticking together. They can be easily reheated in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, making them an effortless grab-and-go breakfast option.

For those who enjoy customizing recipes, you can modify the mixture before baking. Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a hint of sweetness, or sprinkle in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Just try not to alter the core ratios too much; maintaining the balance of wet and dry ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These squares are extremely versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy them plain, or add toppings like yogurt or fresh fruit for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chia seeds could elevate the presentation and add a unique touch. Alternatively, crumbling them over smoothie bowls or salads can bring in additional texture and flavor, making them an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.

If you want to explore flavor variations, consider substituting almond butter with peanut or sunflower butter, which can create entirely new taste dimensions while still keeping a harmonious flavor base. You might also experiment with incorporating chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a little indulgence, transforming these healthy breakfast squares into a delightful treat for any time of day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?

Yes! Peanut butter will add a different flavor but will work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make these squares gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free oats and almond flour to keep it gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?

Absolutely! Wrap the squares tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for honey or maple syrup?

You can use agave syrup or even ripe mashed bananas as a natural sweetener.