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 flour; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup almond milk; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 2 tbsp chia seeds; 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a healthy breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are my favorite way to do so. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, almond flour, and sweet vanilla, they provide the perfect balance of nourishment and flavor. I can make them ahead of time, which means I can grab one on those busy mornings. Plus, they’re so easy to customize with various nuts or dried fruits, allowing me to switch things up whenever I feel like it.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:28:13.570Z

When I first made these squares, I was pleasantly surprised by how satisfying they were without compromising on taste. The nutty flavor of almonds complements the sweetness of vanilla perfectly, making each square a delightful treat. I often add a hint of cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile even more and give it that warm, comforting touch.

One essential tip I discovered is to let the squares cool completely before slicing. This allows them to firm up, making them much easier to handle and ensuring they hold together beautifully. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich almond flavor with a hint of vanilla
Nutritious and satisfying for a busy morning
Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins

      

Understanding the Base Ingredients

The foundation of these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares lies in the combination of rolled oats and almond flour. Rolled oats provide a hearty texture and are rich in fiber, keeping you full throughout the morning. Almond flour adds a subtle nuttiness and healthy fats, making these squares not only tasty but also nutritious. If you don't have almond flour on hand, you can substitute it with ground oats for a similar texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup not only enhance the flavor but also help bind the ingredients together. Choosing between the two can depend on personal preference—honey adds a floral note while maple syrup delivers a unique woodsy undertone. Be sure to measure them accurately, as too much liquid could result in a moister square than intended. If you're looking to lower sugars, consider using ripe mashed bananas as a natural sweetener.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Texture

To achieve the perfect consistency in your breakfast squares, evenly spreading the mixture in your baking dish is crucial. Make sure to press it down firmly, so it bakes uniformly and avoids crumbling. Watch for signs of doneness after 25 minutes; the tops should turn golden brown, and a slight firmness is key. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center finishes baking.

Cooling is another important step that helps the squares firm up before slicing. If you try to cut them too soon, they may fall apart. Once they’re out of the pan, let them cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes to allow them to set fully. If you want to store any leftovers, I recommend placing them in an airtight container; they’ll last about a week in the fridge or can be frozen for up to three months.

Ingredients

For the Base

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup almond milk
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

For Topping (Optional)

1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tbsp chia seeds
1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together honey or maple syrup, almond milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine and Mix

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until fully incorporated. If you're using toppings, fold them in now.

Bake

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

Cool and Slice

Allow the squares to cool completely before lifting them out of the pan and cutting into 12 squares.

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your wet ingredient mixture. If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

These breakfast squares are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enjoy them plain, or for added flavor, spread a layer of almond butter or yogurt on top. Fresh fruit, like slices of banana or berries, can complement the nutty notes of the squares and add freshness. They also make a great on-the-go snack; simply wrap one up and take it with you for a quick breakfast or post-workout fuel.

For a delightful twist, try pairing the squares with a warm beverage like chai tea or a coffee blend that complements their almond and vanilla flavors. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can enhance the taste profile, making them a cozy treat perfect for chilly mornings.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different add-ins to suit your taste. Swap the dried cranberries for chopped dates or apricots for a more tropical flair. Alternatively, use a mix of seeds instead of nuts, which can provide a delightful crunch. Consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the wet ingredients for a chocolatey version that’s equally healthy and satisfying.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur during processing. This small swap allows everyone to enjoy these breakfast squares, expanding your preparation for different dietary needs at home or when hosting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different.

→ How should I store these breakfast squares?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute almond flour with another type of flour?

Coconut flour or whole wheat flour can be used, but you'll need to adjust the liquid content as they absorb moisture differently.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even some cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.