Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped almonds; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love starting my day with a wholesome breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares have become a favorite in my kitchen. They are not only easy to make, but they also provide a delicious balance of flavors and textures. With the nutty aroma of almonds and the sweet notes of vanilla, these squares are perfect for busy mornings or a light snack throughout the day. Plus, they are packed with nutrients to keep me energized and satisfied until lunchtime.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:19:13.661Z

When I first made these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares, I was amazed by how quickly they came together. I love that I can prep them in just minutes, and then while they bake, the wonderful aroma fills my kitchen. It’s a delightful way to start the day, and I often find myself sneaking a square before breakfast!

The combination of oats, almonds, and vanilla creates a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. I recommend letting them cool completely before cutting into squares; this helps them firm up and makes for easier slicing. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty and aromatic almond flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla
Healthy oats provide lasting energy for the day ahead
Perfectly portable for breakfasts on the go

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares lies in the rolled oats, which provide not only texture but also significant fiber for lasting energy. When selecting oats, opt for certified gluten-free if allergies are a concern. The almond butter is crucial for adding creaminess and a subtle nuttiness, acting as both a binder and a flavor enhancer in this recipe.

Honey or maple syrup adds sweetness and moisture, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preference. If you're looking for lower sugar options, consider using a sugar-free syrup or reducing the quantity slightly. The chopped almonds give an extra crunch, so ensure they are coarsely chopped to maintain a satisfying bite in every square.

Baking Technique Tips

When pressing the mixture into the baking dish, use the back of a measuring cup for an even layer. This ensures the squares hold together well after baking. If the mixture feels too crumbly, a small splash of water can help bind it without altering the flavor. Watch for the edges turning golden brown during baking; it’s a sign that the squares are perfectly cooked.

Allow the baked mixture to cool completely in the dish before slicing. This step is vital for achieving clean cuts and preventing crumbling. If you're short on time, placing the dish in the refrigerator can speed up this cooling process, making it easier to handle immediately after.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your breakfast squares:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup dried fruit (optional)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your breakfast squares:

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, chopped almonds, and salt. Mix until well combined and sticky.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer.

Bake

Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try folding in some dark chocolate chips or spices like cinnamon before baking.

Serving and Enjoying

These breakfast squares are incredibly versatile; serve them alongside a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast or pair them with fresh fruit for a refreshing touch. They can also be crumbled over a smoothie bowl for added texture and flavor. I love to wrap them individually for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.

For a twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the base mixture. These spices complement the vanilla and almond flavors beautifully, creating a warm, aromatic experience. Additionally, experimenting with different types of dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots, can elevate the flavor profile while adding natural sweetness.

Storage and Freezing

To keep these breakfast squares fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Cut the squares into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their quality for up to three months; just thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.

If you find the squares becoming too hard or dry after a few days, a brief microwave reheating (10-15 seconds) can rejuvenate their softness. This method is perfect for those busy mornings when you need something quick yet satisfying, giving you that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel even days later.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these breakfast squares gluten-free?

Yes, simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

→ How should I store these squares?

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

→ Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! You can swap almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter and use agave nectar instead of honey.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?

Yes, they freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.