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 milk; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I often look for quick yet nutritious breakfast options that also hold their flavor, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares have become a breakfast staple in our home. Made with wholesome oats, delicious almonds, and a hint of vanilla, they provide an energizing start to my day. I love how easy they are to prepare and how satisfying they taste, making them perfect for busy mornings or healthy snacking on-the-go.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:10:12.581Z

When I first experimented with these breakfast squares, I wanted a blend of flavors that not only tasted great but also kept me full throughout the morning. The key was finding the right balance of oats and almonds, along with just enough vanilla to create a warmth that complements both ingredients. This combination has truly made mornings delicious and energizing for us.

One of the best tips I discovered was allowing the squares to cool completely before cutting them. This ensures they hold together beautifully when you bite into them, making them perfect for easy transportation during busy days. Trust me, this will make all the difference.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicious almond flavor complemented by sweet vanilla
Perfect for meal prep and easy to grab on busy mornings
Nutritious ingredients keep you full and energized

      

Preparing Your Ingredients

Using rolled oats in this recipe is key to achieving the right texture. They provide a chewy base that complements the creaminess of almond butter and milk. If you're gluten-free, ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free. Additionally, let your almond butter come to room temperature for easier mixing; this results in a smoother batter that blends well with the liquid ingredients.

Choosing between honey and maple syrup can influence the flavor of your breakfast squares. Honey brings a floral sweetness while maple adds a depth of flavor, which pairs beautifully with the vanilla. If you're avoiding added sugars, consider using ripe mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce as a natural sweetener, but remember this might alter the baking time slightly.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

Ensuring your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C) is essential for even baking. An oven thermometer can help verify the accuracy of your temperature. As the mixture bakes, keep an eye on it; you’re looking for a light golden brown top, which usually takes around 25 minutes. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, covering the pan loosely with aluminum foil can help prevent burning while allowing the center to set.

Allowing the squares to cool completely before cutting is critical for getting clean edges. If you cut them while warm, they might crumble. Once cooled, use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion to slice them into squares. This technique helps maintain their shape and keeps them looking inviting.

Ingredients

For the Squares

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

Mix all ingredients well and pour into a prepared baking dish.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine almond milk, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix rolled oats, baking powder, and salt together.

Combine All Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined. Fold in the sliced almonds.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden on top.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool completely before cutting them into 12 squares. Store in an airtight container.

Your delicious Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these squares by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits for a personal touch. You can also replace almond butter with peanut butter if you prefer a different flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to two weeks. If you want to make them even more convenient, you can freeze them. Slice the cooled squares, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for about three months!

When you’re ready to enjoy a square from the freezer, simply pull it out and let it thaw at room temperature, or for a quick option, microwave for 15-30 seconds until warmed through. This makes it easy to have a nutritious breakfast ready in a flash, ensuring your mornings stay healthy and hassle-free.

Variations to Try

Experimenting with mix-ins can elevate these squares to your taste preferences. Try adding dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or diced apples for natural sweetness and additional texture. Chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also create delightful variations if you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent.

For a nut-free option, swap out the almond butter with sunflower seed butter, keeping the nutty flavor profile while making it suitable for school lunches or nut-sensitive environments. Additionally, if you want to make the recipe richer, substitute half of the almond milk with full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture, adding a hint of tropical flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, rolled oats are perfect for this recipe and will provide a great texture.

→ How long do these breakfast squares last?

They should stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Just wrap them individually and freeze for up to three months.

→ Is there a substitute for almond milk?

Yes, any kind of milk or milk alternative can be used, such as oat milk or cow's milk.