Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup almond milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with something wholesome and delicious, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are my new go-to! They are not only easy to make, but they also provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With the delightful almond extract combined with hearty oats and a hint of sweetness, these squares are an excellent breakfast option that keeps me energized throughout the morning. Plus, they are portable, making them great for busy days when I need a quick snack!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:49:13.753Z

When I first tried making these breakfast squares, I was amazed at how simple the process was. Mixing together oats, almond butter, honey, and a touch of almond extract created a heavenly scent in my kitchen. To ensure the best texture, I allowed the mixture to rest for a few minutes before pressing it into the baking pan, which helped all the ingredients meld beautifully.

After baking, I couldn’t wait to indulge! The squares turned out perfectly golden and nutty, with a chewy yet satisfying crunch. I often enjoy them with a dollop of yogurt on top or paired with fresh fruit. They truly are a delightful way to kickstart my day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor complemented by nutty almond essence
Chewy texture combined with crunchy almonds for a delightful bite
Perfectly portioned for breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack

      

Ingredient Spotlight

The rolled oats in these squares not only provide a hearty base but also contribute essential dietary fiber, making them a fulfilling breakfast choice. When selecting oats, opt for non-instant rolled oats to achieve the ideal chewy texture. Instant oats may result in a mushier square, which could compromise the overall texture. A quick tip: store your oats in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent any rancid flavors from developing over time.

Almond butter is a star player in this recipe, offering healthy fats and protein that help to keep you satisfied. If you find yourself without almond butter, peanut butter can be a suitable substitute, but it will change the flavor profile slightly. Look for a natural almond butter that has minimal additives to enhance the health benefits without unnecessary sugars or oils.

Baking Techniques

When pressing the mixture into the baking pan, use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to ensure it’s packed tightly, as this helps create a firmer square. If the mixture feels crumbly or does not hold together at all, try adding a touch more almond butter or a splash of almond milk to bind it better. It’s crucial to create an even layer to promote uniform baking and preventing some edges from being overcooked.

As you bake the squares, keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. You're looking for a golden brown color along the edges and a firm middle. If the edges are browning too quickly while the center remains soft, it may be beneficial to cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-baking. Once out of the oven, allow the squares to cool completely in the pan, as cutting them too soon may lead to a crumbly outcome.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup almond milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your breakfast squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, almond milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Add Nuts and Dried Fruit

Fold in the chopped almonds and dried cranberries if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Press into Pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press firmly to ensure an even layer.

Bake the Squares

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some dark chocolate chips or spices like cinnamon!

Storage Tips

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are an excellent make-ahead option. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the squares. Cut them into individual portions and layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then store in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer—you simply need to thaw them in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy one.

For grab-and-go convenience, you can individually wrap each square in plastic wrap or parchment paper before storing them in an airtight container. This way, each square is ready for a busy morning, making it easy to stick to a nourishing breakfast routine even on your busiest days.

Flavor Variations

While the combination of vanilla and almond is delightful, you can easily tailor these breakfast squares to suit various tastes. Adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile. For a fun twist, try swapping in different dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates. These additions can lend a new flavor dimension while still retaining the wholesome feel of the breakfast squares.

Feel free to experiment with the nuts and toppings as well! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds can vary the texture and add unique flavor notes. Just ensure that any substitutions are measured to maintain the same overall consistency of the mixture, which helps in achieving that perfect bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter of your choice.

→ How should I store these squares?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure you use gluten-free rolled oats.

→ Are these squares suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, you can easily make them vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.