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Just because the holidays have passed, doesn’t mean my cookie cravings subsided. In fact the ambush of sugar throughout December has taken my sweet tooth up a notch. To help mitigate the damage and put me on track for that New Year’s resolution, I’ve turned my attention to toning down the added sweeteners and amping up the healthy add-ins for more virtuous treats … virtuous enough, in fact, to be labeled as snacks rather than dessert.
These little no bakes are easy to throw together and even easier to modify. You can increase or decrease the sweetener, change the add-ins, toss in some more spices, and even pump up the protein and fiber if desired.
The high protein hemp powder from Living Harvest has a wonderful consistency that is very similar to dry milk powder, so it blends seamlessly into these two-bite snacks. When made as is, the hemp powder and oil help to give you over 7 grams of protein and a couple hundred milligrams of Omega-3’s per serving (2 no bakes).
Nutty Oatmeal Raisin No-Bake Bites
4 Ounces Nuts (see below)
2 Teaspoons Living Harvest Organic Hemp Oil
3 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
1 Tablespoon Honey or Agave Nectar (optional)
1/8 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional)
1/4 Cup Living Harvest High Protein Hemp Powder
1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
Pinch salt
1/2 Cup to 3/4 Cup Quick or Rolled Oats (I use quick oats – same nutrition, but finer)
1/4 Cup Raisins
Grind the nuts in a food processor or spice grinder until they begin to turn into a paste or “butter.” If a few chunks remain, I don’t mind, if you don’t mind. Place the nut butter in a bowl, and stir in the oil, maple, honey or agave (if using), and vanilla (is using). Stir in the protein powder, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Stir in the oats and raisins. Start with ½ cup of the oats, but feel free to add more if desired. Some nut butters may be a bit oilier or softer than others, so more oats may work better.
Roll the dough into 12 little balls, and flatten a bit like cookies if desired, or leave as balls. Store in the refrigerator or freezer until ready for a snack.
Nuts: I used all walnuts, which are tasty but slightly bitter. For the sweetest and smoothest results, I recommend using cashews, though almonds and even sunflower seeds should work well too. When using walnuts, 4 ounces was a generous cup, or a scant 1-1/4 cups. For cashews, you will be looking at a little less than 1 cup since it is a denser nut.
Yields 6 servings