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 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares hit all the right notes! They are not only packed with wholesome ingredients but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of oats, almond butter, and vanilla creates a flavor profile that makes each bite feel like a treat. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy mornings when I need a quick, healthy option. I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:13:12.233Z

When I first made these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, I was amazed at how easy and rewarding they were. The aroma of vanilla mixed with the nuttiness of almond butter filled my kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special. I learned that to enhance the flavor, lightly toasting the oats beforehand makes a significant difference in the overall taste.

Another fun twist I discovered is to add a handful of dark chocolate chips or dried fruits to the mix. It elevates the squares from basic to fabulous! These not only satisfy my hunger but also keep me energized throughout the day, making them a definite keeper in my recipe repertoire.

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Nutty almond flavor with a hint of vanilla sweetness
Packed with whole grains for lasting energy
A simple make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings

      

Texture and Flavor Balance

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares strike a delightful balance between chewy and crunchy. The rolled oats provide a satisfying chew, which is further enhanced by the optional sliced almonds. If you're a fan of a firmer texture, try baking them an extra 5 minutes, but be cautious to avoid overbaking, as they can easily turn dry. Conversely, slightly underbaking will result in a softer, fudgier square but might not hold together as well during slicing.

The combination of almond butter and honey or maple syrup ensures a sweet yet nutty profile. If you prefer a stronger contrast in flavors, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking; this will enhance the sweetness and make each bite more enticing. The hint of cinnamon rounds out the flavors, making this not just a dessert-like breakfast but a wholesome treat that delights the palate throughout your busy morning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If almond butter isn’t your preference or you have nut allergies, sunflower seed butter makes an excellent substitute, providing a similar texture while keeping the recipe nut-free. Additionally, for a lower-sugar option, using unsweetened applesauce instead of honey or maple syrup can reduce sweetness while adding moisture. Just be aware that this will yield a slightly different flavor and texture, so adjust the cinnamon and vanilla to taste.

For those looking to enhance nutritional value, you might incorporate chia seeds or ground flaxseeds into the mix. About 2 tablespoons can provide a boost of omega-3 fatty acids while keeping the same binding properties, which will help maintain the overall texture of the squares. This versatile approach ensures you can tailor the recipe to fit various dietary needs while still enjoying a delicious start to your day.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Squares

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup almond milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)

Make sure to prep your ingredients beforehand for easier mixing!

Instructions

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, almond milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until thoroughly mixed.

Add Almonds

If desired, fold in the sliced almonds for extra crunch.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden.

Cool and Cut

Allow to cool in the dish for 10 minutes before lifting out and cutting into squares.

Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For a variation, try adding your favorite dried fruits or nut mix for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead Storage

These breakfast squares are perfect for making ahead of time. Once baked and cool, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to grab a satisfying breakfast whenever you need it. If you want longer storage, consider freezing them. Individually wrap squares in plastic wrap before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. If you prefer them warm right out of the freezer, microwave them for about 1 minute, checking every 15 seconds until heated through. This makes for an easy, wholesome breakfast option that's ready in a flash!

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these squares as they are for a quick breakfast or add toppings for a more indulgent experience. Consider spreading a thin layer of Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess and protein. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries can also enhance the flavor profile while providing a burst of freshness. A drizzle of nut butter or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon can elevate the experience further.

If you’re hosting brunch or a gathering, slice these squares into bite-sized pieces for a nutritious snack option. Pair them with coffee or tea, and they will surely impress your guests with their delightful flavor and satisfying texture. The versatility means they can easily be adapted to fit any occasion, whether you're enjoying them solo or sharing with loved ones.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these squares vegan?

Yes, simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your almond butter is also vegan.

→ How long can I store these squares?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the breakfast squares?

Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What other add-ins can I use?

You can add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even seeds like chia or flax for extra nutrients.