Better Than Granola Bars

My mother-in-law has been making carob balls for us for as long as I've known her.  Do you know what carob is?  Neither do I.  Best I can tell it's some sort of healthy alternative to chocolate.

Whatever the case these balls are delicious.  They are healthier and easier than making your own granola too.  My kids eat 'em up.  Shhhh...don't tell my pediatrician my almost-10-month-old is in love with peanut butter.  Oh crap.  And honey too.

Carob Balls

1 stick of butter, melted

2 teaspoons vanilla
2 tablespoons carob powder
1 cup peanut butter

1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup dry powdered milk
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup Rice Krispies
2 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats

Directions:
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.  Form into balls and place on a cookie sheet.  Let balls sit in refrigerator for 30 minutes to one hour to firm up.  Enjoy!

If you have a hard time finding carob powder try looking in the bulk bins in the healthy and organic section of your grocery store.  And if you still can't find I'm sure you could substitute cocoa powder.

I should note that I LOVE nuts so ideally this recipe would include almonds or walnuts.  But since I've already broken so many rules with my Lucy girl, I've left them out.  But if you enjoy nuts throw in a half cup or so!