Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
I love starting my day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares have become one of my favorite go-to recipes. They’re easy to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and provide a lovely balance of flavors. The nutty almond and warm vanilla scents waft through the kitchen, creating the perfect morning ambiance. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, ensuring I have a healthy option ready to grab on busy mornings.
When I first set out to create a breakfast option that was both filling and flavorful, I knew I wanted to incorporate oats and almonds. The texture of the oats baked just right complements the crunchiness of the almonds, making each bite a delightful experience. Experimenting with almond extract alongside vanilla not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake.
One of my favorite tips is to let the squares cool completely before cutting them. This allows them to set firmly and makes them easier to handle. I also love to top them with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of chewy oats and crunchy almonds
- Delicious warm vanilla flavor in every bite
- Great for meal prep or as a quick on-the-go breakfast
Ingredient Insights
The combination of rolled oats and almond flour provides a nutritious base that is both hearty and filling. Rolled oats offer soluble fiber, which is beneficial for heart health and aids in digestion. Almond flour, on the other hand, adds a delightful nuttiness as well as healthy fats and protein, making these breakfast squares more satisfying and keeping you fuller for longer.
Using maple syrup as a sweetener can enhance the depth of flavor with its caramel-like notes. If you're looking for a lower-glycemic option, it’s a great alternative to honey. Make sure to choose a high-quality maple syrup for the best results, as this will contribute to the exquisite vanilla flavor in your squares.
Baking Techniques
When you mix your wet and dry ingredients, do not overmix. You want to stir just until combined, which ensures that the oats retain their chewy texture and that the squares hold together without becoming dense. A common mistake is to overmix, which can result in a tougher final product. The right consistency should be thick yet spoonable, resembling a cookie dough.
Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the squares during the final 5 minutes. Look for a golden brown color around the edges and a slightly firm center that stays intact when you gently press down. If they are not yet set, return them to the oven but check at 2-minute intervals to avoid overbaking.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious breakfast 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 melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
Once you have everything, you’re ready to mix and bake!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares:
Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
Add Nuts and Bake
Fold in the chopped almonds, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Cut
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely before lifting the squares out and cutting them into pieces.
Enjoy your delicious Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating dried fruit or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This makes them perfect for meal prep. Simply cut them into squares and portion them out for easy grab-and-go breakfasts. If you want to keep them longer, you can opt to freeze the squares. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper in between layers and they can last up to three months.
To reheat, simply microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or enjoy them cold. You can also warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes if you prefer a freshly baked taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your breakfast squares warm, drizzled with a bit more honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. You can also top them with fresh fruits, like sliced bananas or berries, adding a burst of freshness and color. For an extra layer of flavor, a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter can transform these squares into a more indulgent yet healthy treat.
These squares also make a great snack option or a light dessert. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider varying the toppings or mix-ins, such as dried fruits, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon for a cozy fall twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these squares gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free rolled oats and almond flour to ensure they are gluten-free.
→ 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?
Absolutely! They freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store them in a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I use instead of honey?
You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a vegan option.
Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares
I love starting my day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast, and these Vanilla Almond Oat Breakfast Squares have become one of my favorite go-to recipes. They’re easy to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and provide a lovely balance of flavors. The nutty almond and warm vanilla scents waft through the kitchen, creating the perfect morning ambiance. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, ensuring I have a healthy option ready to grab on busy mornings.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
Fold in the chopped almonds, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely before lifting the squares out and cutting them into pieces.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating dried fruit or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g