INGREDIENTS (for 40 bites)
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats, pulsed briefly in a food processor
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or almonds
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or wheat germ
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Scant 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pitted dates, from 6 to 8 large dates (make sure they are not dry/stale)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup sesame for rolling
PREPARATION
- To begin, place the oats and nuts in a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the oats turn slightly golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl and stir in the flaxseed, cinnamon, and salt.
- Place the pan back on the stove over low heat. Add the peanut butter, dates, honey, vanilla, and water.
- Stir until evenly combined (you’re not “cooking” the mixture; warming it just makes it easier to combine).
- Using a rubber spatula, scrape the mixture into the bowl with the oats/nuts.
- Stir until evenly combined, then refrigerate the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes, or until cool enough to handle.
- Place the coconut in a shallow bowl. Roll the mixture into tablespoon-size balls, then roll in the coconut to coat.
- Place the balls in the refrigerator to set until cold, a few hours (or 45 minutes in the freezer). The bites will keep in a covered container for up to a week in the refrigerator.