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 unsalted almond butter; 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my mornings with something that feels both indulgent and nourishing, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are just that! They are perfectly chewy, packed with flavor, and provide a healthy dose of energy to kickstart my day. With the warmth of vanilla, the satisfying crunch of almonds, and the heartiness of oats, they make for a delightful breakfast option. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time, making them perfect for busy mornings!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:55:16.951Z

When I first tried making these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares, I was skeptical about how well they would hold together. However, using ripe bananas as a natural sweetener, I found that they added just the right amount of moisture and binding. The first batch disappeared within minutes!

I've since made these squares multiple times, experimenting with different nuts and add-ins. I discovered that toasting the almonds beforehand enhances their flavor significantly, giving the squares an extra depth that I absolutely love. Trust me, the effort is worth it!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Delicious blend of vanilla and almond flavors
Nutty texture paired with wholesome oats
Perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy days

      

The Role of Almond Butter

Almond butter is not just a binding agent in these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares; it’s crucial for adding creaminess and an intense almond flavor. Opt for unsweetened almond butter to keep the sweetness balanced, especially since we are already using honey or maple syrup. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter can work well, but be mindful of its stronger taste, which can alter the flavor profile slightly.

When measuring almond butter, using a warm spoon or lightly warming it in the microwave for a few seconds can make it easier to scoop and accurately measure. This will ensure you get the full amount into your mixture, contributing to the desired chewy texture.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

Baking these squares to the right doneness is key for achieving the perfect chewy texture. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; they should be golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. If they look overly firm when you remove them, they might dry out upon cooling. Remember, they will continue to firm up after baking, so it’s better to take them out a little underdone.

If you enjoy a more robust flavor, consider toasting the chopped almonds before folding them into the mixture. Toasting enhances their nuttiness, bringing out the oils and deepening the overall taste of your breakfast squares. Just a 5-7 minute stint in a dry skillet over medium heat will yield wonderfully fragrant results.

Ingredients

For the Breakfast Squares

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup unsalted almond butter
1 ripe banana, mashed
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped almonds

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Preheat Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, mashed banana, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

Add Almonds

Fold in the chopped almonds until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Bake

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

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the chopped almonds with any nuts or seeds of your preference. Also, consider adding dried fruits or chocolate chips for an extra treat!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares are an excellent make-ahead breakfast option. After they cool completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap them individually for easy grabs on busy mornings.

For even longer storage, these squares freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a quick 20-30 seconds to warm them up.

Serving Suggestions

These breakfast squares are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for added sweetness. Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas make a great addition as well, providing fresh flavors and extra nutrients.

For a more decadent twist, consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the mixture before baking. This not only introduces delightful chewy textures but also enhances the flavor profile, making them a versatile treat any time of day, not just for breakfast!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Simply wrap them individually and store in a freezer bag.

→ What can I use instead of almond butter?

You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or any nut/seed butter you prefer.