Imagine starting your day with a delicious, nutrient-packed breakfast that takes less than 15 minutes to prepare and will keep you energized until lunch. These Cinnamon Oatmeal Breakfast Squares are not just another boring breakfast option - they're a game-changing, grab-and-go meal that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the richness of nuts, and the sweetness of dried fruit into one irresistible square. Perfect for busy mornings, meal prep enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a healthier, more convenient breakfast solution!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 9 squares
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup dried fruit
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift out the squares later. This will help prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, and 1/4 cup of dried fruit. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of honey and 1/2 cup of almond milk until fully combined. Make sure the honey is well incorporated into the almond milk.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until all the oats and other ingredients are evenly coated with the honey and almond milk mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and press it down firmly to ensure the squares hold together after baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-baking.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift the oatmeal square out of the pan and place it on a cutting board.
- Let it cool completely before cutting it into 9 squares. This will help the squares firm up and make them easier to cut.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Enjoy your Cinnamon Oatmeal Breakfast Squares as a nutritious breakfast or snack!
Tips
- Use high-quality rolled oats for the best texture and nutrition.
- Toast your chopped nuts before adding them to enhance their flavor.
- Experiment with different dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots.
- For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the dry ingredients.
- Ensure you press the mixture firmly into the baking pan to help the squares hold together.
- Let the squares cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- For variation, try substituting honey with maple syrup or using different nut milks.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
