No-bake Almond Oat Clusters

By msippigrl

If you're looking for a sweet treat that's a bit healthier, then this is it! Made with peanut butter, honey, chocolate, oats, and chopped almonds.

Ingredients

• 3 cups quick-cooking oats (uncooked)
• 1 cup toasted and chopped whole almonds
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• Dash salt
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preparation

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats, chopped and toasted almonds, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt together the coconut oil and peanut butter, stirring until melted. Remove from heat.

Stir in the honey and vanilla. Add the chocolate chips and stir until melted. (Return to heat briefly if needed.)

Pour the hot mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.

Line 2 mini muffin pans with mini-muffin paper liners. (Or line a baking sheet with waxed paper.) Scoop the mixture into the muffin papers (I used a fork)(or onto the waxed paper.) Refrigerate until completely hardened.

Store covered in the refrigerator. Serve cold, straight from the fridge or they will soften quickly and be messy to eat.

Makes 4 to 4 1/2 dozen candies. Use holiday paper liners for special a touch for Christmas giving.

Notes:

While it is not 'necessary' to toast the almonds, it really adds a whole new level of awesomeness that I highly recommend! I just used a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring constantly. Do not let them brown though. For TWO levels of the awesomeness, I even gave the oats a little toasting!