Snack @ 226 - Snack Bites

If you're on Pinterest, you probably know all about these little gems.  No-bake snacks and homemade versions of energy bars seem to be one of the most FPed items on pinterest.  Oh, that means Frequently Pinned, duh. But, I always feel like having one more Real Life Opinion takes me one step closer to actually making the things on Pinterest.  Validation, I guess.  So, here I am to tell you - make them now.  I don't know why I waited so long.

The Taste Tester.

They take under 10 minutes of active prep.  You don't need a food processor. They stay good in the refrigerator for over two weeks.  They are free of most allergens.  They satisfy both a need for a snack and a subtle sweet tooth.  You may never buy another insert your favorite 7$ energy bar here.  Your kids will love them.  You can customize them for your own taste buds.  What?  You want more reasons?  Well, that's just greedy.  Now, get in the kitchen and get not baking.

No-Bake Snack Bites - inspired by this recipe

1 cup oats
2/3 cup shredded and unsweetened coconut, toasted
1/2 cup peanut butter*
1/2 cup ground flax seed
1/2 cup cranberries, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1/3 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Stir everything together in a medium bowl, cover and refrigerate.  Once they're chilled (about 1/2 an hour), take them out and squeeze Tablespoons of "batter" in your hand and then form into little balls.

Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Makes 20-30 balls, depending on size.

Oatmeal Cookie Version - these were my favorite

1 cup oats
2/3 cup shredded and unsweetened coconut, toasted
1/4 cup peanut butter*
1/4 cup almond butter
1/2 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup raisins
1 tablespoon chia seed
1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Follow the directions above.

*Of course, you can make these with whatever you have on hand.  Substituting any variety of dried fruit, nut butter, spices, etc.  Use Sunflower Seed butter to make them peanut-free, for a school snack.  And, use Gluten Free Oats to make them gluten free.

Enjoy!