No-Bake Energy Bites

I came across these babies on Pinterest and I'm so glad I did.  They are healthy and delicious.  My kids are pretty picky when it comes to snacks and they gobbled these up.  I like them because I feel like I'm eating something naughty and I'm not!  Try them ASAP!

 No-Bake Energy Bites

(makes 18-20 bites)

1 cup oatmeal (I used old fashioned oats)

1/2 cup peanut butter (or other nut butter)

1/3 cup honey

1 cup coconut flakes

1/2 cup ground flaxseed (I found this by the flour and sugar)

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

1 tsp vanilla

Mix everything above in a medium bowl until thoroughly incorporated.  Let chill in the refrigerator for half an hour.  Once chilled, roll into balls and enjoy!  Store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.

Granola

We're on diets around here, trying to get rid of baby weight and Christmas pounds (a horrible thing for someone who LOVES to eat and bake!) and I found this good recipe for homemade granola. It's really easy and good for you. I like it with low fat vanilla yogurt and some frozen raspberries mixed in. Or it's good just by the handful!

Granola

1-3 tablespoons light, unsalted butter or olive oil
1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup water
7-8 cups slow cook or quick oats (or a mix)
1/4-1/2 tsp. cinnamon
Raisins, dried cherries, dried cranberries, nuts, etc. (I like it plain)

Melt butter, brown sugar and water together in a pan over medium heat. Stir well and allow mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

In a bowl, mix together cinnamon and oats and add to the brown sugar mixture.

Remove from bowl and stir until all the oats are covered. Place granola on a cookie sheet (with sides) and bake for 5 minutes at 375. Remove from oven and stir. Bake for 5 more minutes until granola is lightly browned. Allow to cool on cookie sheet. Transfer to an airtight container when cool. It will keep for a couple weeks.