Chocolate Almond Oat Squares

Name: Chocolate Almond Oat Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 9 squares
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips; 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first created these Chocolate Almond Oat Squares, I wanted a sweet treat that balanced indulgence with wholesome ingredients. The combination of rich chocolate, nutty almonds, and hearty oats came together beautifully, and I was thrilled with the result. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for a snack or dessert. I love that they're not overly sweet, allowing the natural goodness of the oats and nuts to shine through, making them a favorite in my household!

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:49:30.369Z

Making these Chocolate Almond Oat Squares felt like an adventure in the kitchen. I played around with the ratios of cocoa to oats until I found the perfect balance, creating a texture that is both chewy and fudgy. The addition of almond butter not only boosts flavor but also keeps the oats moist while adding healthy fats.

As a tip, I recommend letting the squares cool completely before cutting them. This way, they maintain their shape and are easier to handle. I was amazed at how satisfying these are as a post-workout snack or a midday pick-me-up!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor complemented by nutty almonds
Chewy texture with a satisfying crunch from the oats
Healthy enough for breakfast, indulgent enough for dessert

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Almond Oat Squares plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The rolled oats provide a hearty base, creating a satisfying chewiness that forms the foundation of the squares. Using almond flour not only adds a nutty richness but also enhances the overall nutritional profile by increasing protein and healthy fats. Unsweetened cocoa powder brings depth to the flavor, allowing the sweetness of the honey or maple syrup to shine without overpowering.

Almond butter is a key player in this recipe, serving as both a binder and a flavor enhancer. It adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crunch of sliced almonds on top. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter can work well, though be mindful of potential taste differences. Additionally, using high-quality dark chocolate chips will elevate the richness of your squares, providing flecks of melty indulgence throughout.

Baking Tips for Success

Baking these squares at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C) is essential for achieving that perfect chewy yet firm texture. When pressing the mixture into the baking pan, make sure to pack it down well; this helps the squares hold together during baking. If you find that the edges are browning too quickly while the center remains undercooked, you can cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time to prevent burning.

Allowing the squares to cool completely in the pan is important before cutting—this step helps them firm up further. If you're in a rush, you can speed up the cooling process by placing the pan in a cool area or even in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Just be careful not to chill them too long or they might become too firm to cut easily.

Ingredients

For the Oat Squares

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup almond butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
1/4 cup sliced almonds

Mix all the ingredients until combined and press the mixture into a lined baking pan.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, almond flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until fully combined. Fold in the chopped chocolate and sliced almonds.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down firmly. Bake for 25 minutes or until set.

Cool and Cut

Allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting it out and cutting it into squares.

Enjoy your delicious squares as a snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For a nut-free version, use sun butter instead of almond butter. You can also substitute agave syrup for honey for a vegan option.

Storing and Freezing

These Chocolate Almond Oat Squares are ideal for meal prep! Once cooled and sliced, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before enjoying.

If you want to maintain their texture, avoid reheating them in the microwave, as this can make them overly soft. Instead, let them come to room temperature naturally for the best flavor and consistency. This way, you can savor the chewy goodness and rich chocolate experience as intended.

Serving Suggestions

These squares are versatile enough to serve as a wholesome breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert option. Try pairing them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh berries for a balanced breakfast. For a decadent dessert, you can drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over the top or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Feel free to customize your squares with additional ingredients. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can add a chewy sweetness, while seeds such as chia or flax can boost the nutritional content further. You can also experiment with different nut butters, such as cashew or peanut butter, to create variations tailored to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats give a chewier consistency.

→ How do I store these squares?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Absolutely! Wrap them individually and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of almond butter?

You can substitute with peanut butter, sun butter, or any nut/seed butter you prefer.