Powerballs

Becca here with another family favorite that I've made for several years.  The original recipe was torn from a magazine & taped to my recipe notebook, I believe from Family Fun.  This time I handed the 'Powerball making responsiblity' over to my 7 year old daughter, who was wanting to make a recipe start to finish all by herself.  I offered her a few recipes to chose from, and this was her choice.  They're similar to a granola bar, and hold their own shape well.  To make nice even shapes, I had her press the mixture into my smallest (1/8 cup) measuring cup, and then tap the handle on the pan and the powerballs popped right out.  To make them an easy snack for kids to serve themselves, without requiring any additional dishes, we sometimes put them into paper cupcake liners.  They can be frozen, but last at least a week in the fridge, and are always eaten by then at my house anyway :)  Enjoy! 

1 cup peanut butter (we use no sugar added organic natural creamy pb, but any kind is fine)
1 cup honey (we use local, but any kind will work)
3 cups old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup ground flaxseed
1 cup chocolate chips (we use mini ones)
1 cup any combination of nuts & soft dried fruit (this time Kyla chose to use 1/2 cup sliced almonds,
     1/4 cup raisins, and 1/4 cup golden raisins; we've also used coarsely chopped peanuts, dried
     apples, or craisins)

In a large bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.

Gradually stir in oats and flaxseed.

Add chocolate chips & fruit/nut combo and stir until combined.

Roll into balls, or use 1/8 measuring cup to press mixture into, tapping the handle for it to easily pop out.

Refrigerate for at least an hour before eating.  Store in the refrigerator, stored between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container.  May be frozen for longer storage!

Makes approximately 40 powerballs!