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 almonds, chopped; 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 salt; 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Highlighted under: Easy Bites Co.

I absolutely love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares. They are not only nutritious but also incredibly convenient for busy mornings. I appreciate how the natural sweetness of the oats and almonds come together, making each bite satisfying and wholesome. These squares are easy to prepare in advance, allowing me to grab and go on hectic mornings. With a perfect blend of textures, they offer that delightful crunch paired with chewiness that I crave, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:43:24.662Z

When I first experimented with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, I wanted something that would not only provide energy but also taste great. I discovered that toasting the almonds before mixing them into the oats enhances their flavor significantly, giving the squares a rich, nutty essence. I also love that I can customize these squares by adding different fruits or spices depending on what I have at hand.

One tip I found essential was to let the squares cool completely before slicing them. This makes them less crumbly and easier to handle. I tried eagerly cutting them while warm once, and oh boy, what a mess! Allowing them to set was a game-changer, ensuring I had perfect, clean squares ready for breakfast.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich oat flavor enhanced with crunchy almonds
Nutritious and filling, perfect for breakfast or snacks
Easily customizable with your favorite fruits or nuts

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The combination of rolled oats and almonds creates a harmonious balance between chewiness and crunch. The oats provide a hearty base, while the toasted almonds introduce a satisfying crunch that elevates each bite. The addition of honey or maple syrup not only sweetens the squares but also helps bind the ingredients together, giving them a cohesive texture. I recommend using a quality honey for the best flavor impact; it enhances the natural nuttiness of the almonds beautifully.

Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the squares, creating a comforting flavor profile perfect for breakfast. Be sure to mix the cinnamon thoroughly into the dry ingredients to ensure even distribution. Alternatively, you can experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a different twist—these variations can bring a whole new dimension to the overall taste and aroma.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of my favorite aspects of these vanilla almond oat breakfast squares is how well they store. Once fully cooled, I recommend cutting them into individual squares and storing them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for about a week, making them an excellent grab-and-go option for busy mornings or snacking. I find that they maintain their texture and flavor best when refrigerated, as it helps keep them from getting stale.

If you're looking to prepare a larger batch, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for later. To freeze, wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They should be good for up to three months. Simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or pop one in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for a quick breakfast boost when you need it!

Ingredients

For the Breakfast Squares

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almonds, chopped
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 salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

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

Toast the Almonds

Spread the chopped almonds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, toasted almonds, honey or maple syrup, almond milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.

Bake the Mixture

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden.

Cool and Slice

Allow the squares to cool in the baking dish for at least 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can sprinkle a handful of dried fruits or chocolate chips into the mixture before baking. This will elevate the sweetness and give a delightful surprise in each bite.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to modify the recipe to fit dietary preferences, these breakfast squares are highly adaptable. For a nut-free version, you can substitute the almonds with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, which provide a similar crunch without the allergens. Just make sure to toast them the same way you would the almonds to bring out their flavors and enhance their texture.

For a vegan option, swap the honey for maple syrup, which will offer comparable sweetness. The almond milk can be replaced with any plant-based milk, like oat or soy milk, depending on your taste and dietary needs. Adjusting these ingredients won’t compromise the integrity of the squares, but it's always a good idea to taste test during mixing to achieve the desired sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them with a dollop of yogurt or a smear of nut butter on top for an added protein boost. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas, which can bring a refreshing contrast to their dense texture and rich flavors.

For a fun twist, consider crumbling a square over a bowl of oatmeal or yogurt parfait, adding both texture and sweetness. You could also pack these squares in lunchboxes for a healthy snack option that keeps well throughout the day. They are not just a breakfast item; their nutritious profile makes them a great choice any time you need a quick energy lift!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a better chewiness.

→ How should I store these breakfast squares?

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

→ Can I substitute almonds with another nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to use walnuts, pecans, or any nut of your choice.

→ Is it possible to make these squares vegan?

Yes! Simply use maple syrup in place of honey, and ensure no animal-derived products are included.