Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
I absolutely love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares! The combination of creamy almond butter and subtle vanilla flavor is simply irresistible. These squares not only satisfy my morning cravings but also provide a balanced mix of protein and healthy fats to keep me energized. With just a few easily sourced ingredients, I can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy brunch with friends, they're a treat you'll want to enjoy over and over again!
Creating these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares was a delightful experiment in flavor balance. I found that using a mix of honey and almond milk not only sweetened the squares naturally but also kept them moist without being overly sticky. The trick is to let the mixture chill properly before cutting it into squares—this prevents them from crumbling when you serve them.
I've tried various nut butters, but almond butter really shines here with its creamy texture and subtle nuttiness. Each bite is a perfect harmony of sweet and nutty, making it a fantastic addition to any breakfast spread. Trust me; your mornings will never be the same once you give these squares a try!
Why You'll Love These Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares
- Nutty almond flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy vanilla
- Healthy and filling, making them a great start to your day
- Customizable with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit or yogurt
Ingredient Insights
The star of these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares is undoubtedly almond butter. It not only adds a creamy texture but also packs a nutritional punch with protein and healthy fats that sustain your energy throughout the morning. Look for a natural brand without added sugars or oils to get the best flavor and health benefits. If almond allergies are a concern, feel free to swap it out for sunflower seed butter, which offers a similar creaminess with a slightly different, yet delightful flavor.
Using rolled oats in this recipe contributes to both texture and flavor. They provide a chewy element that balances the creaminess of the nut butter. Opt for whole grain rolled oats over instant oats, as they retain their structure and create a heartier bite. If you're gluten-sensitive, certified gluten-free oats are readily available and can seamlessly replace the regular oats in this recipe.
Baking and Texture Tips
Properly preheating your oven is essential for even baking. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and give it a few minutes to stabilize before placing your dish inside. To check for doneness, keep an eye on the edges of the squares; they should be slightly golden and pull away from the sides of the dish. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with only a few crumbs attached, indicating that the squares are perfectly baked.
Letting the squares cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain their structure. If you skip this step, they might crumble when cut. Once cooled fully, use a sharp knife for clean cuts, especially helpful if you’re planning to store them. If you want to keep the squares moist, consider wrapping them in parchment paper before storing them in an airtight container.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gather everything you need before starting!
Ingredients for Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: sliced almonds for topping
Make sure everything is measured out for a smooth preparation.
Instructions
Instructions
Let’s dive into making these delicious breakfast squares!
Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing well.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the almond butter, honey, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Both Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Bake the Squares
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and top with sliced almonds if desired. Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cool and Cut
Allow the squares to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool fully. Once cool, cut into squares.
Enjoy your homemade breakfast squares with your favorite toppings!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
Storage and Make-Ahead Ideas
These Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares are fantastic for meal prep since they can be made ahead of time and stored. Once fully cooled, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months; just make sure to separate the squares with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
When you're ready to enjoy one after freezing, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer a warm treat, pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This method revives the flavors and texture, making your breakfast feel freshly baked even after freezing.
Serving Suggestions
These breakfast squares are incredibly versatile and can be topped with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste. Try adding fresh fruit like banana slices, strawberries, or blueberries for a pop of flavor and added nutrients. A dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of additional honey can elevate your serving, turning them from a simple breakfast into a delightful brunch option.
For a more indulgent touch, consider spreading a thin layer of chocolate or an extra tablespoon of almond butter on top before serving. This brings a new richness to the squares that pairs wonderfully with the existing nutty flavor, turning your breakfast into a wholesome treat that feels like dessert without the guilt.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I add protein powder to the mixture?
Absolutely! Just reduce the amount of almond flour slightly to maintain the right consistency.
→ How can I store the breakfast squares?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
→ Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your rolled oats and almond flour are certified gluten-free.
→ What can I substitute for almond butter?
You can use peanut butter or any other nut butter of your choice, although it will change the flavor profile.
Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares
I absolutely love starting my day with these Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares! The combination of creamy almond butter and subtle vanilla flavor is simply irresistible. These squares not only satisfy my morning cravings but also provide a balanced mix of protein and healthy fats to keep me energized. With just a few easily sourced ingredients, I can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy brunch with friends, they're a treat you'll want to enjoy over and over again!
Created by: Adele Summers
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 16 squares
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Vanilla Almond Breakfast Squares
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: sliced almonds for topping
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing well.
In another bowl, mix the almond butter, honey, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and top with sliced almonds if desired. Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Allow the squares to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool fully. Once cool, cut into squares.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 6g