Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares

Name: Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or your choice); 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or your choice)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with something wholesome yet satisfying, which is why I created these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares. The combination of oats, almond flavor, and a hint of vanilla not only nourishes me but also keeps my energy levels steady throughout the morning. These squares are easy to prepare and perfect for busy mornings when I need something quick to grab. They offer a tasty way to fuel my day, and I can customize them with my favorite nuts or dried fruits for added variety.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:49:16.018Z

When I first experimented with these breakfast squares, I wanted a balance of flavor and nutrition. I discovered that toasting the oats lightly before mixing them with almond extract and vanilla makes all the difference. The aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible!

Another tip I learned is to allow the squares to cool completely before cutting. This way, they hold their shape better and have a delightful texture. Now, they're a regular part of my breakfast routine, and I couldn't be happier with how easy they are to make!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness
Packed with wholesome oats for sustained energy
Perfectly portable for breakfast on the go

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The mainstay of these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares is the rolled oats, which provide a hearty base rich in fiber. This fiber not only contributes to your daily nutritional needs but also promotes a feeling of fullness that helps stave off mid-morning cravings. If you're aiming for gluten-free options, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats to keep the recipe safe for those with sensitivities.

Almond flour adds a delightful nuttiness and boosts the protein content of these squares. If you can't find almond flour or prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute it with sunflower seed flour. However, the flavor profile will shift slightly, with less of that characteristic almond essence.

Customizing Your Squares

The flexibility of this recipe is one of its best features; you can customize the nuts and dried fruits to match your preferences or pantry inventory. Consider trying pistachios or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile, or swap out raisins for chopped dried apricots or dates, which can bring a more robust sweetness. Just be cautious with the moisture content if you're using particularly juicy dried fruits, as they can affect the final texture.

If you're looking to reduce the sugar content, you can decrease the amount of honey or maple syrup by 25% without compromising the texture too much. Alternatively, mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce can stand in for the sweetener, though I recommend keeping the ratio balanced to retain the correct moisture level.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or your choice)
1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or your choice)

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to create a delicious breakfast treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well blended.

Combine Everything

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruits.

Bake the Squares

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan and flatten the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before transferring to a cutting board. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Now enjoy your homemade vanilla almond oat breakfast squares!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also try different types of nuts and dried fruits based on your preference.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These breakfast squares are perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Alternatively, for longer storage, you can freeze them. I recommend wrapping each square individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer, making them an excellent option for busy mornings.

To reheat frozen squares, simply take one out and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before enjoying. For a warm treat, you can pop it in the microwave for 15–30 seconds. Just be cautious not to overheat, as the texture can become dry.

Serving Suggestions

These breakfast squares are delicious on their own, but you can enhance them with various toppings for extra flair. A dollop of yogurt on top or a drizzle of almond butter can elevate the flavor and add creaminess. For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or extra chopped nuts right before serving.

Pair these squares with a fresh piece of fruit, like apple slices or a banana, to complete your breakfast. The combination of flavors not only balances but also enriches the whole meal, making it both nourishing and visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats can be used, but they may result in a different texture. Rolled oats provide a heartier bite.

→ How should I store these breakfast squares?

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

→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are cut into squares and wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used as a vegan substitute for honey.