Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup milk (or any dairy-free alternative); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup slivered almonds (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares! Not only are they delicious, but they are also quick to make and packed with nutrients. I enjoy the balance of sweet vanilla, crunchy almonds, and wholesome oats that keep me energized throughout the morning. These squares are perfect for busy days or when I want a satisfying snack. I've even made them in advance so I can grab one on the go. You’ll love how easy they come together and the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:49:11.882Z

When I first made these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, I was surprised by how simple yet satisfying they were. I’ve experimented with different mix-ins, but the combination of almond extract and vanilla has become my favorite. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors, and they make for a great post-workout snack as well. They also hold their shape surprisingly well, making them perfect for lunchboxes!

One key tip I've learned is to let them cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps them firm up, making them easier to handle without crumbling. I often double the recipe and freeze half for later, ensuring I always have a healthy breakfast option on hand.

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Irresistible flavor pairing of vanilla and almonds
Wholesome oats provide lasting energy
Great for meal prep and on-the-go breakfasts

      

The Role of Oats

Rolled oats are the star ingredient in these breakfast squares. They provide much-needed fiber and texture, contributing to that satisfying, chewy bite. When baked, oats absorb moisture from the wet ingredients, resulting in a firm yet tender structure. If you’re gluten-sensitive, ensure you're using certified gluten-free oats to enjoy this recipe without worry.

You can customize the oats based on your preference. For a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the oats lightly in a dry skillet for a few minutes before mixing them with the other ingredients. This step enhances their natural flavor and adds a subtle crunch to the bars.

Nut Butter Choices

Almond butter gives the bars a rich, nutty flavor and provides healthy fats, making them even more satisfying. However, if almond butter isn’t your preference or if allergies are a concern, you can swap it for peanut butter or sunflower seed butter, keeping the proportions the same. Just keep in mind that different nut butters can slightly alter the flavor profile.

To avoid a gritty texture, ensure your almond butter is well-mixed before measuring it, as some brands separate. If you find your almond butter thicker than usual, add a splash more milk to maintain the right consistency for the batter.

Storing and Serving

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares store wonderfully and make for an excellent grab-and-go breakfast. Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they freeze well and can be enjoyed for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

To elevate your breakfast experience, feel free to top the squares with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of extra honey or maple syrup. You could also experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the mix for added warmth and depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup milk (or any dairy-free alternative)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup slivered almonds (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix together honey, almond butter, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.

Mix It Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. If desired, fold in slivered almonds for extra crunch.

Bake the Squares

Spread the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan. Lift them out using the parchment paper and cut them into squares. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in dried fruit or chocolate chips. Storing them in an airtight container will keep them fresh for up to a week.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these breakfast squares vegan, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, which will yield similar sweetness without using animal products. Additionally, any plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, can substitute for dairy milk in this recipe seamlessly.

For those who may be nut-free, consider using pumpkin seed meal in place of almond flour and sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter. These alternatives maintain the integrity of the bars while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. To double the batch, use a 9x13 inch pan, and keep an eye on the baking time, as it may require an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure the center is fully cooked and the edges are golden.

If you're looking to make smaller portions, you can cut the squares into mini bars, adjusting the baking time slightly—check for doneness around 20 minutes if cut smaller, as they will bake up quicker.

Variations to Try

If you want to add a twist to your breakfast squares, try incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness and texture. Simply fold them in when mixing the wet and dry ingredients; they’ll add chewiness that pairs wonderfully with the nutty flavor.

For a chocolatey treat, mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips before baking. The melted chocolate will add a luxurious richness to the bars that complements the vanilla and almond flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of nut butter?

Yes, you can easily substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter.

→ Are these breakfast squares gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the squares?

Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.