Peanut Butter Balls

It's been a warm winter in the lowcountry, and we've been spending as much time as possible outside at playgrounds, walking trails, and (best of all) in our own backyard. Of course the key to keeping everyone happy is keeping them fed (and fed and fed and fed), so when I saw this recipe I got excited because this is a snack that will travel.

If you ask my boy what he wants for lunch on any given day, the answer is always the same: peanut butter! These use peanut butter along with some other nutritious ingredients (flaxseed, oatmeal) making them somewhat healthy. I had to add the chocolate chips for myself the kids, of course.

Peanut Butter Balls

Makes 20 quarter-sized balls

1 cup natural peanut butter (chunky or creamy)

2 tablespoons honey or agave nectar

1 cup rolled oats - quick cooking works best

2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or wheat germ

2 tablespoons sweetened flaked coconut

1/2 to 1 cup chocolate chips

1. Heat peanut butter and honey in the microwave until easily mixed, about 15-20 seconds.  Stir until blended.  
2. In a separate bowl, mix oats, flaxseed, coconut, and chocolate chips until combined.
3. Add peanut butter mixture to oat mixture and stir until incorporated. 
4. Roll into quarter-sized balls. 
5. You might want to roll these in cocoa powder or powdered sugar if you want to get fancy.
6. Chill the plate of balls in the fridge to set for at least an hour.

He approves!