Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almond milk; 1/4 cup almond butter; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: chopped almonds for topping

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares! They're not only delicious but also nourishing, providing a perfect blend of carbohydrates and healthy fats to fuel my morning. Preparing them is quite simple—just a matter of combining ingredients and letting them bake. I often make a batch over the weekend, so I have a quick breakfast option for busy weekdays. I can even customize them with my favorite toppings or mix-ins, making them a versatile choice for any palate.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:40:11.045Z

When I first experimented with these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, I was on the hunt for a nutritious breakfast option that didn't sacrifice flavor. The combination of almond extract with vanilla creates a fragrant aroma that fills my kitchen and makes it feel like a cozy bakery. This recipe balances texture and taste perfectly with a delightful crunch from the oats.

One of my favorite tips when making these squares is to let them cool completely before cutting. This helps them set nicely and gives a well-formed shape, making them easier to grab on the go. Also, feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor!

        Why You'll Love These Breakfast Squares
        Nourishing morning boost with wholesome ingredients
Sweet vanilla and nutty almond flavor that’s irresistible
Perfect for meal prep and easy to grab on busy mornings

      

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

When making Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, the quality of your ingredients plays a vital role in the final taste and texture. Using pure maple syrup instead of processed sweeteners adds a depth of flavor that complements the nuttiness of almond butter. Make sure you choose almond milk that is unsweetened and free from additives, as this will ensure the squares are not overly sweet and allow the natural flavors to shine through.

Another key ingredient is rolled oats. Opt for high-quality, whole grain oats to texture, providing a hearty base. Steel-cut or instant oats do not work well in this recipe as they will either create a gritty texture or won't absorb liquid properly. The rolled oats bind together with the almond butter and syrup, resulting in a satisfying chewiness that pairs beautifully with the crispy edges that develop during baking.

Customizing Your Squares

One of the benefits of these breakfast squares is their versatility. Feel free to swap in different nut butters like peanut or cashew for a unique flavor twist. If you're avoiding nuts altogether, sunflower seed butter is an excellent nut-free alternative that won’t compromise the creaminess. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup to suit your taste preference.

For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in various toppings before baking. Dried fruit like cranberries or apricots can add a delightful chewiness, while dark chocolate chips offer a touch of indulgence without overwhelming sweetness. A sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile beautifully, creating an aromatic experience that pairs well with coffee or tea in the morning.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your breakfast squares:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond milk
1/4 cup almond butter
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: chopped almonds for topping

Make sure to use quality almond butter for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your breakfast squares:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine almond milk, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix rolled oats, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Both Mixtures

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well combined. If desired, mix in some chopped almonds.

Bake

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Once baked, let the squares cool completely in the dish before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these squares by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor.

Storing and Reheating

After baking, allow your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares to cool completely in the baking dish, as this will help them firm up and make cutting easier. Once cooled, you can store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. If you'd like to extend their shelf life further, consider freezing them in individual portions wrapped tightly. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply pop a square in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds, or until warmed through. If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help revive that freshly baked texture, making them perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast on busy mornings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your breakfast squares turn out too crumbly, it usually means that the wet ingredients didn't bind effectively with the oats. Ensure that your almond butter is creamy and well-mixed; if it’s too thick, consider warming it slightly before incorporating it into the mixture. Adding a bit more almond milk can also help achieve a better consistency, allowing the oats to soak properly.

On the other hand, if the squares are too moist, it may be due to under-baking. Keep an eye on the oven, and if you're unsure, do the toothpick test: insert it into the center and check that it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. The edges should appear golden brown, indicating that the oats have had sufficient time to cook through and solidify.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can use any milk of your choice, such as oat, soy, or coconut milk.

→ How long do these breakfast squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing.

→ What can I add to enhance flavors?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.