Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares
Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas
I’ve been on a quest to create a breakfast that not only fuels my mornings but also satisfies my sweet tooth. These Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares have been a delicious breakthrough. Combining wholesome ingredients with a touch of indulgence, they are perfect for busy mornings or cozy weekends. When I take a bite, the nutty almond flavor paired with the sweet vanilla essence truly hits the spot. Plus, they are easy to make in advance, ensuring I have a healthy yet delightful start to my day.
Creating these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares was a delightful journey for me. I wanted to combine nutritious oats with a creamy and aromatic vanilla touch, resulting in a breakfast that feels indulgent without compromising on health. By adding almond butter, the squares have the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
While experimenting with the recipe, I discovered that letting the mixture rest before baking allows the oats to absorb flavors, resulting in a moist texture. Trust me; waiting those extra minutes makes all the difference!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Nutty almond flavor combined with sweet vanilla notes
- Wholesome breakfast squares that are easy to prepare
- Perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week
The Role of Oats and Almonds
The base of these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares is rolled oats, which provide not only a hearty texture but also significant fiber. This helps keep you full longer and gives these squares a satisfying chew. When selecting oats, opt for certified gluten-free if you have any dietary restrictions, ensuring a safe and delicious breakfast for everyone.
Sliced almonds add a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats to the squares. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which contributes to skin health, and magnesium, aiding in muscle function. Toasting the almonds lightly before adding them to the mixture can enhance their flavor profile and aroma, making the breakfast squares even more indulgent.
Sweetness Balance and Flavor Variations
Choosing between honey and maple syrup affects not just the sweetness level but also the flavor of the breakfast squares. Honey adds a floral note, making the squares feel more decadent, while maple syrup provides a warm, comforting taste. Feel free to experiment with the ratios; start with less sweetener and adjust to your preference, especially if you plan to add chocolate chips or dried fruits.
For a twist on the classic vanilla-almond flavor, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices can enhance the overall warmth of the squares. You could also substitute half of the almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version that still packs in protein and creaminess.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before starting to prepare these delicious squares.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Optional: dried fruits or chocolate chips
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares.
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix almond butter, honey, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well.
Add almonds
Fold in the sliced almonds and any optional ingredients like dried fruits or chocolate chips.
Bake
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Cool and cut
Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the dish. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, you can stir in a sprinkle of cinnamon or some shredded coconut into the mixture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These breakfast squares are perfect for meal prepping! Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature or pop one in the microwave for a warm breakfast on busy mornings.
If you notice your squares are getting a bit dry after a few days, a light drizzle of almond milk or a yogurt topping can bring back some moisture without compromising the flavor. This small adjustment can make a significant difference, transforming the squares into a delightful, creamy breakfast treat.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your breakfast squares don’t hold together well after baking, it could be due to a lack of moisture. Ensure that your almond butter is creamy and fully incorporated. If they seem too dry, consider adding a splash of almond milk or an extra tablespoon of almond butter next time to improve the consistency.
If you find the squares are over-baked and crumbly, check the oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Ovens can vary, and what reads 350°F may actually be higher. Keep an eye on the squares as they bake, pulling them out once they reach a light golden brown around the edges to maintain the right texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes! You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter depending on your preference.
→ How should I store these squares?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze the breakfast squares?
Absolutely! These squares freeze well. Wrap them individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
→ What can I add for additional flavor?
You can add spices like cinnamon, or mix in dried fruits, nuts, or seeds to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares
I’ve been on a quest to create a breakfast that not only fuels my mornings but also satisfies my sweet tooth. These Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares have been a delicious breakthrough. Combining wholesome ingredients with a touch of indulgence, they are perfect for busy mornings or cozy weekends. When I take a bite, the nutty almond flavor paired with the sweet vanilla essence truly hits the spot. Plus, they are easy to make in advance, ensuring I have a healthy yet delightful start to my day.
Created by: Emma Parker
Recipe Type: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 squares
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Optional: dried fruits or chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix almond butter, honey, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well.
Fold in the sliced almonds and any optional ingredients like dried fruits or chocolate chips.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the dish. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, you can stir in a sprinkle of cinnamon or some shredded coconut into the mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 6g