Recipe: Granola Balls

It’s about time I put a recipe on here, with how much I love food and all! So here’s a new favorite of ours: Granola Balls. 

I got the recipe off of Pintrest, but I do not have the original link anymore. There are lots of different recipes around. So the credit goes to someone out there. This is not one of my creations. 

It was originally called Energy Balls, but that just sounded odd to me. And it made me think I could go ahead and eat a couple more to get through the day – for energy. I can’t say I’ve noticed great increases in energy from eating them. I just know they are delicious! They are our favorite things, all rolled up in a ball: oats, peanut butter, coconut, honey, nuts… and if you choose – chocolate!

Granola Balls

1 cup oats

2/3 cup coconut flakes

1/3 cup finely chopped nuts

½ cup ground flaxseed

½ cup mini chocolate chips, raisins, or dried cranberries

½ cup peanut butter

1/3 cup honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ cup melted coconut oil (optional)

Combine oats and coconut flakes on a baking sheet. Toast in 350 degree oven for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly toasted.

Put oats and coconut in a big bowl. Add nuts, ground flaxseed, and raisins, cranberries or chocolate chips. (If you are using the chocolate chips, let mixture cool first - or add and you will get Chocolate Granola Balls). Add peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and coconut oil if using. Mix well. 

Chill for at least 30 min. Next, roll mixture into 1-in balls, pressing together tightly. Store in the refrigerator.