Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional); 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my mornings with something that’s both nutritious and delicious, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares hit the spot perfectly. The combination of oats, almond butter, and a hint of vanilla creates a wholesome breakfast that keeps me energized throughout the day. I’ve tried several variations, but this one offers just the right balance of flavors and textures. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which is a lifesaver on busy mornings!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:04:19.457Z

When I first made these breakfast squares, I was amazed at how simple it was to whip up something so satisfying. The creaminess of almond butter combined with the chewiness of oats made for a wonderful texture that I couldn't resist. I added a touch of maple syrup for sweetness, which turned out to be a game-changer.

Experimenting with mix-ins further enhanced the flavor; dried fruits or nuts can easily personalize this recipe. The best part is that they store well in the fridge, making them a perfect grab-and-go option for hectic mornings. Truly a delightful way to start the day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty almond flavor complemented by creamy vanilla
Wholesome ingredients that keep you full
Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go breakfasts

      

The Role of Oats and Almond Butter

Rolled oats serve as the foundation of these breakfast squares, providing a hearty dose of fiber and complex carbohydrates that help sustain energy levels throughout the morning. Opt for gluten-free oats if you follow a gluten-free diet; they will work just as well in this recipe. In addition, soaking the oats briefly in the wet ingredients can enhance their texture, making the final squares chewier and more satisfying.

Almond butter not only adds a rich, nutty flavor but also brings healthy fats and protein to the mix, making these squares a well-rounded breakfast option. Make sure to use natural almond butter with no added oils or sugars for the best results. If you have allergies or prefer a different nut, you can easily substitute it with peanut butter or sunbutter, though the flavor profile will slightly vary.

Perfecting Your Bake

Baking these squares until they are lightly golden is key to achieving that perfect texture—too little time in the oven, and they may be undercooked and crumbly; too much, and they can dry out. It's important to check for a slightly firm texture around the edges but allow a small area in the center to remain a touch softer, as they will continue to set as they cool. A visual cue to look for is a golden brown top and a pleasant nutty aroma wafting through your kitchen.

If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly, use aluminum foil to cover the baking dish for the latter half of the baking time. This can prevent the edges from becoming too hard while still achieving a perfectly baked center. Don’t hesitate to adjust baking times based on your oven’s unique characteristics.

Ingredients

For the best results, use old-fashioned oats rather than quick oats.

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)

Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your breakfast squares!

Prepare the baking dish

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

Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine oats, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well blended.

Add mix-ins

Fold in the chopped almonds and dried cranberries or chia seeds if using.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cool and cut

Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Enjoy these delicious squares warm or cold!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some dark chocolate chips or coconut flakes.

Storage and Meal Prep

These squares excel in meal prep, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week for extra freshness. You can also freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll hold their quality for up to three months, allowing for a quick breakfast option anytime.

For a quick reheat, simply pop a square in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or let them sit at room temperature for a bit if frozen. They can also be enjoyed cold, making them versatile for whatever suits your morning routine!

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins to customize your breakfast squares. For a chocolatey twist, consider adding a handful of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs. If you love the flavor of cinnamon, increase the amount to a full teaspoon, or even add a dash of nutmeg for warmth. Other great options for mix-ins include dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates, or seeds such as sunflower seeds for extra crunch.

If you're looking to boost the nutrition further, try adding a scoop of protein powder to the oat mixture. This can make these breakfast squares even more satisfying, especially if you're active. Just be mindful that if you add dry ingredients like protein powder, you may need to adjust the moisture levels slightly by incorporating an additional tablespoon of almond butter or honey.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use peanut butter instead of almond butter?

Yes, peanut butter works well and adds a different flavor.

→ How can I make them vegan?

Replace honey with maple syrup to make this recipe completely vegan.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well and can be stored for up to three months.

→ What can I use as a substitute for honey?

You can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup as alternatives.