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

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a wholesome breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are a perfect fit! They are packed with the goodness of oats and almonds, sweetened with a hint of vanilla, making them an energizing treat that keeps me full and satisfied. I enjoy making a batch at the beginning of the week to have nutritious snacks or breakfast options on hand. These squares are not only easy to prepare but also customizable based on my favorite ingredients, making them a versatile choice for any morning.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:16:13.849Z

When I first experimented with these breakfast squares, I wanted to create something that combined my favorite flavors of vanilla and almond. The combination of oats and nuts not only provides a hearty texture but also offers a significant boost of energy to kickstart my day. After several trials, I found that lightly toasting the almonds beforehand truly elevated the flavor profile, adding a beautiful nuttiness that harmonized perfectly with the vanilla.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. I often include a sprinkle of cinnamon or swap the almonds for walnuts, depending on what I have on hand. Playing with the mix-ins allows me to keep the squares exciting and tailored to my current cravings. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them an ideal grab-and-go breakfast for those busy mornings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty almond flavor harmonizing with creamy vanilla.
Wholesome oats provide lasting energy without weighing you down.
Easily customizable with your favorite nuts and add-ins.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of these breakfast squares lies in the rolled oats, which provide both structure and a hearty texture. Oats are rich in soluble fiber, helping to suppress appetite and deliver sustained energy throughout the morning. For the best results, use certified gluten-free oats if necessary, as they absorb moisture well and create a chewy base that holds the squares together.

Almond butter not only binds the ingredients but also contributes healthy fats and protein, enhancing the nutritional value of your breakfast. If you prefer a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter can work just as well, providing a similar creamy consistency without compromising on taste.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When transferring the mixture to the baking dish, use a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly. This ensures that the squares don’t crumble after baking. Look for a golden brown color on the edges before removing them from the oven. If the edges are browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center continues to bake.

Cooling is another critical step; letting them rest for at least 10 minutes in the pan allows them to firm up. If you try to cut them too soon, they may fall apart. I find that using a serrated knife gives the cleanest cut, helping to maintain the square shape as you slice through.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and chopped almonds. Mix in the salt evenly.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. The mixture should be thick but moldable.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting out. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. You can also substitute the almond butter with peanut butter for a different taste.

Storage and Meal Prep

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they will last up to a week. If you want to keep them even longer, freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag; they can last up to three months. Simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

To reheat, simply microwave a square for about 15-20 seconds if you prefer a warm breakfast. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold or at room temperature, making them a versatile grab-and-go option during busy mornings.

Endless Customization Options

One of the best aspects of these breakfast squares is their adaptability. Feel free to mix in your favorite dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, for a touch of sweetness and additional texture. You might also consider adding chocolate chips for an indulgent twist or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile. Just keep in mind that if you add extra wet ingredients, you may need to slightly adjust the dry ingredients to maintain the right consistency.

Experimenting with different nut varieties can also be delightful—walnuts, pecans, or pistachios each bring their own unique flavor. If you want to reduce sugar content, try decreasing the honey or syrup by half; the almond butter's richness can compensate for the reduction, keeping your squares satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier consistency.

→ How should I store these breakfast squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these squares vegan?

Yes, use maple syrup as the sweetener and ensure your almond butter is dairy-free.

→ What can I substitute for almond butter?

You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunbutter, depending on your dietary preferences.