Peanut Butter Granola Balls

I'm always looking for simple ways to make life more fun for both Grace and I. Here was a recipe that ended up being a hit. Easy for the kids to help you make, and are a yummy snack. I dare say they even made up part of Grace's lunch today- the rest she had at "snacky tables"(read: free samples at Sam's). Hey, I said I was looking for ways to make life more fun, and sometimes that means breaking the rules about three square meals! :)

Peanut Butter Granola Balls

1/3 cup honey

1/4 cup natural peanut butter

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (I used 1 and it worked fine)

1 cup Rice Crispies

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick cooking)

1/4 cup dried fruit such as cherries, raisins or cranberries (or if Grace helps, more like 1/2 cup!)

1. In a small saucepan over medium, heat honey, peanut butter and butter. Stir until loosened and smooth, 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.

2. In a bowl, stir in cereal, oats, and dried fruit. Add peanut butter mixture and stir.

3. Drop mixture by the tablespoon into mini paper cupcake liners or a mini cupcake tin. Place in refrigerator until set. To store, refrigerate in tupperware for up to 1 week.

I'll leave you with a picture of Grace discovering the joy of licking the bowl when we made chocolate cake yesterday. Warning- once you let a kid lick the beaters or the bowl, don't ever think you can go back. Or get a tasty lick for yourself.