Chocolate Almond Oat Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Oat Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; ½ cup almond butter; ¼ cup honey or maple syrup; ½ cup dark chocolate chips; ¼ cup chopped almonds; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chocolate Almond Oat Squares because they are a delicious treat that satisfies my sweet tooth without feeling heavy. The combination of rich chocolate and nutty almond flavor creates a delightful experience with every bite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for sharing with friends or packing in my lunch. With wholesome oats and a hint of honey, these squares offer an indulgent yet nutritious snack that I can feel good about enjoying any time of day.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:16:17.824Z

Making these Chocolate Almond Oat Squares was a delightful experiment in my kitchen. I had some leftover oats and wanted to create a snack that was both healthy and indulgent. After several attempts, I realized that adding almond butter not only enhances the flavor but also binds the ingredients beautifully. The result is a chewy texture that complements the rich chocolate perfectly.

What I absolutely love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap in different nuts or seeds depending on what you have on hand. Once I added a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking, it elevated the sweetness with a subtle contrast. These squares are perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty almond essence
Wholesome ingredients that make for a guilt-free treat
Perfect for meal prep or last-minute snacks

      

The Role of Oats and Almond Butter

In this recipe, rolled oats serve as the sturdy base, providing both structure and a hearty texture. They also contribute soluble fiber, aiding digestion and giving a satisfying chew to each bite. When choosing oats, make sure they are the rolled type; quick oats can lead to a mushy texture, while steel-cut oats will not bind the squares effectively.

Almond butter not only acts as a binder in this recipe but also enriches the squares with a creamy texture and nutty flavor. Opt for natural almond butter without added sugars or oils for a wholesome ingredient. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter works well, though it may impart a slightly different taste.

Baking Tips for Perfect Squares

When spreading the mixture into the baking pan, take care to press it down firmly. This ensures the squares hold together once baked. If the mixture feels crumbly, wet your hands with a bit of water or oil to help you press it down more evenly without sticking. It's essential to achieve an even layer for consistent baking.

Once baked, the squares should have a golden edge and a soft, slightly firm center. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as the color can shift quickly. If unsure, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with only a few crumbs attached.

Ingredients

For the Squares

1 cup rolled oats
½ cup almond butter
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
½ cup dark chocolate chips
¼ cup chopped almonds
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, dark chocolate chips, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Mix until well combined.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into the lined baking pan and press down firmly. Bake for 20 minutes until golden.

Cool and Cut

Allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of dried fruits to the mixture before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Almond Oat Squares are perfect for meal prep! After cutting them into squares, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a zip-top bag. They freeze well for up to three months, making them a convenient snack option anytime.

If you plan to prepare these squares ahead of time, consider baking them and cooling completely before storing. This helps maintain their texture. I also like to individually wrap each square, so I can grab one on the go without needing to worry about crumbling.

Variations to Try

If you're feeling adventurous, you can add a variety of mix-ins to customize these squares. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots add natural sweetness and chewy texture. You can also experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a unique flavor profile.

For an even richer chocolate experience, consider folding in cocoa powder along with the oats. A tablespoon or two can enhance the chocolatey flavor without needing to change the structure of the recipe. Just make sure to balance it with a touch more almond butter if it feels too dry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, peanut butter or sunflower seed butter can be used as alternatives.

→ How should I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the Chocolate Almond Oat Squares?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to three months. Just thaw before enjoying.

→ What can I use instead of honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.