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

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares! They are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that keep me energized. The combination of oats, almond butter, and a hint of vanilla creates a wholesome breakfast option that I can easily prepare in advance. Just grab a square on my way out the door, and I’m set for a busy morning. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to add them to your breakfast routine too.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:58:14.124Z

I remember the first time I made these breakfast squares; it was a chilly morning, and I needed something warm and hearty to kickstart my day. I experimented with almond butter and oats, and the result was fantastic—crispy on the outside and soft within. The subtle hint of vanilla balanced perfectly with the nuttiness, making it a true delight.

What I learned is that letting the mixture set before baking enhances the flavors. These squares are ideal for meal prep—once made, they store well in the fridge and freeze beautifully. I often top them with fresh fruit or yogurt for added flair!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutty almond flavor combined with sweet vanilla
Healthy and filling, perfect for busy mornings
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares lies in the oats. Rolled oats are not only a fantastic source of fiber, but they also give the squares a hearty texture. When baked, they absorb moisture, creating a chewy consistency that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of almond butter. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of oats; quick oats can work, but be mindful that they may yield a less textured final product.

Almond butter plays a pivotal role in both flavor and nutrition. It provides healthy fats and proteins, ensuring that the squares are satiating. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter can be a great substitute. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as different nut butters can alter the moisture content, potentially affecting the baking outcome.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When baking your breakfast squares, ensuring even spreading in the dish is crucial for uniform cooking. Use a spatula to press the mixture down firmly, helping the squares hold together once baked. You can also dampen your hands slightly to prevent sticking while leveling the mixture. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning while allowing the center to cook thoroughly.

Once cooled, cutting the squares can be a bit tricky. I suggest using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts to ensure neat edges. If you find that the squares have a tendency to crumble, it might be worth checking the consistency before baking; a slightly looser mixture can indicate it needs more binding from almond butter or honey.

Ingredients

For the Breakfast Squares

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

Mix well until everything is combined.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, almond milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt until well incorporated.

Transfer and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the dish for at least 10 minutes. Once cool, lift them out and cut into squares.

Enjoy these squares warm or cold as a healthy breakfast option!

Pro Tips

Try adding some chopped nuts or dried fruits to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are perfect for meal prepping! Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the squares. Cut them individually and wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to three months, and you can thaw them overnight in the fridge for a quick breakfast option.

If you prefer a softer texture, consider reheating the squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will enhance the flavors and make them feel freshly baked. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold straight from the fridge, making them a versatile breakfast choice for any busy morning.

Customizations and Variations

Feel free to get creative with these breakfast squares! You can add mix-ins such as dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a hint of sweetness, or even dark chocolate chips for a more indulgent treat. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can be incorporated to enhance the warmth of the flavor profile. Consider adding seeds like chia or flax for an extra boost of nutrition.

For a different taste profile, try swapping out the almond milk for coconut or oat milk. This not only changes the flavor but can also accommodate those with nut allergies. Additionally, experimenting with different sweeteners like agave syrup or maple syrup can yield delightful results, allowing you to tailor the squares to your taste preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, you can use any nut or seed butter of your choice, like peanut butter or sunflower seed butter.

→ How should I store these breakfast squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats work best for texture, but you can use quick oats if that's what you have on hand.

→ Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can mix in a scoop of protein powder if you want to increase the protein content.