As I was re-organizing the cupboard last night, I discovered my long lost bag of raw carob powder. Anxious to put it to use, I came up with a lil’ something sweet and nutty. I have been feeling overly sick of processed foods. (And here I sit, waiting for a pan of brownies to finish baking in the oven so I can make a “Black Forrest Trifle” for a get-together tomorrow.) The constant battle of balancing fresh foods with the rich and delicious confectionery concoctions (that I have a hard time resisting!) is ever vexing and a tease to the sweet tooth. Ah well. Eat these:

Raw Carob Peanut Butter Bites

1/2 cup pure peanut butter
1/2 cup pure honey
2 T. wheat germ
2 T. wheat bran
2 T. raw carob powder
2 cups whole oats
splash of pure vanilla extract

Mix the peanut butter, honey and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Combine remaining ingredients in a separate bowl and then add to the honey and peanut butter mixture. Mix well. The mixture will be crumbly, no worries! Using a tablespoon, scoop out one spoonful and form into a ball with your hands. I keep mine in Tupperware in the fridge. The nutty flavor of the wheat germ melds wonderfully with the honey and carob!

Makes 18 bites

Rick likes ’em. ‘Nuff said. (wait, I do too!)

So I am tickled pink that my sister had her baby on May 14th. I can’t stop thinking about Margot, and her delightful lip perfection!