Buckeye Granola Bites

These healthy peanut butter granola bites are dipped in dark chocolate to resemble buckeyes. They are a snacky, healthier version of the popular buckeye candies.

Today is yet another Buckeye football Saturday and therefore PB+Choc Saturday. I am actually tailgating today, but oddly enough NOT for the Ohio State game. Some friends are in town this weekend for the UT-Florida game and I will be joining them for the adventure! I have never tailgated at a game where I did not have a sworn allegiance so I’m just along for the ride.

While I will wear some orange to join in the spirit of the day, I may layer some Ohio state gear in there as well since both games are at the same time. With highs barely reaching 60 today (wasn’t it 80 on yesterday?) no one can blame me for layering. Besides, I plan on bringing these granola bites along just in case they need persuasion. They resemble buckeye candies but are healthier (even more than my healthier buckeyes), made with oats, peanuts, dates (or raisins), and honey.

One year ago: Jalapeno Popper Fettucine Alfredo

Two years ago: Hazelnut Praline Paste

Three years ago: Pumpkin Danish

BUCKEYE GRANOLA BITES

Makes X

Ingredients:

3/4 cup rolled oats

1/4 cup unsalted, roasted peanuts

1/2 cup raisins or chopped dates

1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter

1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

2 Tbsp ground flaxseed (optional)

1 Tbsp honey

1/2 tsp salt

4 oz. dark chocolate, melted

Directions:

1. In a food processor, pulse the oats and peanuts together until coarse. Add the raisins (or dates) and pulse until they are chopped up and well blended.
2. Add the peanut butters, flaxseed, honey, and salt. Mix well until a clumpy dough forms that you can easily shape into a ball without it falling apart. If it’s not there yet, add more peanut butter.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll a heaping tablespoon of dough into a 1-inch ball and then place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough.
4. Insert a wooden toothpick into the center of each and chill in the refrigerator at least 30 minutes.
5. When ready, melt the chocolate. Holding the granola bites by the ends of the toothpicks, dip into melted chocolate leaving a small circle uncovered at the base of the toothpick. Return to wax paper, chocolate side down. Repeat with remaining balls.
6. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set. Remove toothpicks and store in airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Source: Adapted from my Peanut Butter and Oat Granola Bites and my Buckeye Candies.