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; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup almond milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional); 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love starting my day with a wholesome and delicious breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares never disappoint. They’re not only easy to make but also provide the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and flavor. The combination of creamy almond butter and fragrant vanilla creates a delightful taste that keeps me energized throughout the morning. Plus, they can be made in advance and stored for quick access on busy weekdays!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:55:15.502Z

When I first created these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, I wanted a healthy yet indulgent breakfast option. I experimented with various ingredients until I found the perfect balance. The almond butter adds a rich creaminess, while the oats provide heartiness and texture. I also love how the vanilla elevates the flavors, making each bite a mini treat!

One tip I discovered during my trial runs is to let the squares cool completely in the pan before cutting them. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from crumbling. Once ready, they are incredibly satisfying and perfect for on-the-go mornings!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Nutty flavor from almond butter paired with sweet vanilla essence
Energizing blend of oats and nuts keeps you full longer
Easy to make in bulk for meal prep or snacks

      

The Importance of Oats

Rolled oats serve as the foundation for these breakfast squares, delivering a hearty dose of fiber that supports digestive health and keeps hunger at bay. Choosing high-quality oats helps to ensure a satisfying texture; look for gluten-free options if you're following a gluten-free diet. When mixed with almond butter, oats also provide a nice chewy bite that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy texture of added nuts.

In this recipe, the oats absorb the moisture from almond butter and sweeteners, leading to a delightful balance of moisture and crumbly texture. When baked, they caramelize slightly around the edges, creating a satisfying contrast in texture that enhances the overall experience of each square.

Almond Butter: The Creamy Star

Almond butter not only lends a nutty richness but also acts as a binding agent for the ingredients in these breakfast squares. Its creamy consistency helps to keep the oats together during baking, ensuring that the squares hold their shape when sliced. For those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative that maintains a similar texture and contributes a unique flavor.

When using almond butter, be sure to choose a natural version without added sugars or hydrogenated oils for a healthier option. You may need to adjust the amount of sweetener used if your almond butter is already sweetened; start with less and taste the mixture before baking.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients to make your breakfast squares:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup almond milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you can proceed to the next steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine oats, almond butter, honey, almond milk, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Add Optional Ingredients

Fold in chopped almonds and raisins or cranberries if using, making sure they are evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your homemade breakfast squares as a nutritious start to your day!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some cinnamon into the mixture. You can also experiment with different nut butters to customize the taste.

Storage and Freezing

Once cooled, these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months, making them an excellent grab-and-go breakfast.

To enjoy a square from the freezer, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or unwrap and microwave it for about 15-20 seconds. If you prefer a warm from the oven experience, you can re-bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Customizing Your Squares

Feel free to customize your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares with a variety of add-ins or substitutions. For a different flavor profile, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or even a scoop of protein powder to boost the protein content. Dried fruits like apricots or figs can replace raisins or cranberries for a unique twist.

If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, you can reduce the amount of almond butter and replace it with additional almond milk. Keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, making the squares slightly less fudgy but still delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Yes! Just make sure you use certified gluten-free oats.

→ How should I store the leftover squares?

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

→ Can I substitute almond butter with peanut butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to use peanut butter or any nut butter you prefer.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even some dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist!