Above photo collage by Jaimie Johnson ~

Peanut Butter Energy Balls are sweet treats that are fun to make and easy to eat! The ground oats in this recipe give the Energy Balls the taste of cookie dough. Make them as gifts or anytime you need a healthier snack alternative.

Peanut Butter Energy Bars

Cook’s tip:   Substitute sunflower butter for the peanut butter for allergies. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rolled oats.

INGREDIENTS:

• ½ cup creamy unsweetened peanut butter or alternative to nut butter.

• ¼ cup honey

• 1 cup rolled oats, ground into a coarse flour in a blender or food processor (or use quick oats or oat flour)

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional)

• ¼ cup raisins, cut in half (can substitute with ¼ cup chocolate chips)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place the peanut butter and honey in a heat-proof container (such as a glass measuring cup/batter bowl) and warm for 15-30 seconds in the microwave.

2. In a medium bowl, combine remaining ingredients.

3. Add to the peanut butter mixture in the medium glass measuring cup.

4. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon as much as you can. If the dough is at all stiff, mix with clean hands.

5. Use a tablespoon-sized measuring spoon to portion out the dough.

6. Squeeze the batter, then roll into a ball to help it hold together.

7. Roll batter ball in your favorite sprinkles or toppings.

It’s OK to refrigerate the Peanut Butter Energy Balls for up to two weeks in an airtight container.