Sunny’s Oat Cookie Bites

These oat cookie bites are a yummy and healthy treat that kids can have as a snack or for dessert. Made with only 3 ingredients (and optional mix-ins), these cookie bites are no-bake and take less than 10 minutes to whip up. Instead of sugar, this recipe contains honey or maple syrup as a healthier alternative. Have fun choosing mix-ins and rolling out the cookie bites with kids. They store for up to a week in the refrigerator - take one out at any time for a quick and healthy sweet bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup rolled oats (or gluten-free, unsweetened shredded coconut)

• 1/2 cup nut butter or seed butter (any brand works)

• 1/4 cup honey or real maple syrup (not the flavored corn syrup!)

• 1/2 cup mix-ins, optional (raisins, dried cranberries, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients together in a medium-sized bowl.

2. Using your hands, form into bite-sized balls.

3. Enjoy!

4. Clean up and, you can store the cookie bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

If you're feeling particularly educational, we have some fun Q&As for you as well!

Q: Are sweet snacks and desserts usually healthy?

A: No, because of added sugar. Too much sugar is bad for us because it can (1) lead to illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer (2) make your stomach hurt and feel sick, and (3) causes issues later in life like not being able to breathe well, play games, walk up steps, and more.

Q: Does this recipe have added sugar?

A: In this recipe, we are using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. Honey and maple syrup have more nutrients than just plain old white sugar, and you can use less to make your food taste just as sweet.

There are also other healthy ingredients like oats and nut butter to help you feel full and satisfied without adding as much sugar.

Q: Is it okay to eat sweet foods on occasion?

A: Sweet foods are delicious, and you should eat them sometimes. Enjoy in moderation - don’t eat too much and don’t eat them everyday. When you can, eat healthier sweet treats without as much added sugar, like these oat cookie bites.