Protein Cinnamon Almond Squares

These Protein Cinnamon Almond Squares are my answer to busy mornings and snack cravings. Quick to whip up, packed with nutty crunch, a hit of protein, and swirls of warm cinnamon—these bars fill you up but never weigh you down. My family grabs them for breakfast, after the gym, or just because they make the house smell like a bakery.

The combination of cinnamon and almonds feels so cozy. The very first time I baked these, my whole kitchen smelled like cinnamon toast—my kids wandered in just to find out what was on the menu. Ever since, they have become my go to for school snacks and post hike refuels.

Ingredients

• Rolled oats: This forms the chewy base and boosts fiber content Look for old fashioned oats for the best texture
• Almond flour: Adds richness and moisture Always select almond flour that is finely ground
• Vanilla or unflavored protein powder: Packs a punch of protein and helps with structure Choose a brand with minimal additives
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and signature spice Fresh ground cinnamon gives the most flavor
• Baking powder: Makes these squares light and fluffy Make sure it is fresh for the best rise
• Fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out nutty flavors Use a good quality fine salt for better taste
• Eggs: Help bind everything together and add extra protein Choose large eggs and make sure they are at room temperature
• Unsweetened almond milk: Keeps things moist and dairy free Unsweetened is best to control sweetness
• Pure maple syrup or honey: Natural sweetness that adds complexity Use pure maple syrup for deeper flavor or honey for floral notes
• Unsweetened applesauce: Extra moisture and a light fruitiness Choose no sugar added applesauce
• Melted coconut oil: Keeps the bars soft and adds a subtle flavor Use virgin coconut oil for a more pronounced coconut taste
• Vanilla extract: Infuses depth and rounds out the flavors Go with real vanilla for the fullest flavor
• Chopped roasted almonds: Crunchy bites and extra protein Dry roasted brings out the deepest almond flavor
• Sliced almonds: For topping and a pretty finish Try toasting them for even more nuttiness

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and let it fully heat up Line your eight inch square baking pan with parchment paper letting it hang over the edges for easier removal later

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl combine rolled oats almond flour protein powder cinnamon baking powder and salt Use a whisk to ensure they are thoroughly blended with no clumps

Mix Wet Ingredients:

Crack eggs into a different bowl and add almond milk maple syrup applesauce melted coconut oil and vanilla extract Whisk vigorously until everything is completely mixed with no streaks of egg

Combine Wet and Dry:

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dried ingredients Gently stir everything together using a spatula scraping the edges Make sure there are no pockets of flour left

Fold in Almonds:

Add the chopped roasted almonds and fold them in evenly Be careful not to over mix at this stage for tender results

Spread and Top:

Pour your thick batter into the prepared pan Use the spatula to level it and make sure it is spread all the way to the corners Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over the top pressing them lightly so they stick

Bake:

Slide the pan into the hot oven and bake for twenty two to twenty five minutes Edges should turn lightly golden and a toothpick test in the center comes out mostly clean

Cool and Slice:

Let the pan cool completely on a rack before attempting to lift out the bars Use the parchment to pull the whole bake out Transfer to a cutting board and slice into twelve even squares

Storage:

Place cooled squares in an airtight container Store at room temperature for up to three days For longer freshness refrigerate for up to a week

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My favorite part about this recipe is the way the roasted almonds become toasty in the oven They create a little crunch in every bite My kids love helping sprinkle the sliced almonds on top before baking—sometimes they get creative with their own patterns

Storage Tips

These squares keep best in an airtight container in the refrigerator If you want them to last even longer individually wrap and freeze for quick grab and go breakfasts Pull one out the night before for a soft texture by morning For lunchboxes use a mini ice pack to keep them firm

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap eggs for flax eggs to make them vegan If you only have sweetened almond milk just lower the maple syrup a bit You can also add a handful of mini chocolate chips or dried cherries in place of extra almonds Nut allergies Try sunflower seed flour and seeds for a unique twist

Serving Suggestions

Cut them into bite sized pieces for party platters or double the batch to prep snacks for the week I love these squares paired with hot tea or coffee They are also great crumbled into plain yogurt with cinnamon and berries for a quick breakfast bowl

Cultural and Seasonal Variations

These bars are inspired by American snack bars but can easily shift with your favorite flavors In fall add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice For a holiday treat drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over the top Serve warm out of the oven for extra comfort in colder seasons

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This recipe is easy to double and freeze for meal prep Kids love to help in the kitchen and these squares always get rave reviews even from picky eaters

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make these squares gluten-free?

Yes, use certified gluten-free oats and protein powder to keep the squares gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water, set for 5 minutes) for a vegan alternative.

→ How do I store almond squares?

Store squares in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate up to 1 week.

→ Can I use different sweeteners?

Maple syrup, honey, or agave can be used interchangeably based on preference.

→ What mix-ins work well for extra flavor?

Raisins, a pinch of nutmeg, or dried fruits can add extra texture and taste to the squares.

→ Is there any allergen concern?

Squares contain eggs and tree nuts (almonds). Double-check ingredient labels for allergies.