My friend Myla introduced me to chia seeds and they have become a staple ingredient in my kitchen. Here is a gluten-free non-cooked snack that provides a healthy alternative. 

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats (uncooked)
  • ¼ cup chia seeds
  • ½ cup coconut milk
  • ½ cup raisins
  • ½ cup pitted dates
  • ½ cup dried figs or dried apricots
  • ¼ cup nuts
  • ¼ cup peanut or almond butter
  • ¼ cup dark chocolate shavings, if desired
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp sea salt
  • ½ cup fine coconut (reserve for dipping)

Preparation

Place dry uncooked rolled oats in blender and chop intermittently for a few seconds.

Add dried fruit and nuts and chop intermittently for a few seconds.

Pour into a mixing bowl.

Place all other ingredients in the blender (except for the coconut) and blend until quite smooth.

Add to other ingredients in mixing bowl and stir until well blended. Allow to sit at room temperature for about half an hour to allow chia seeds to absorb coconut milk.

Form into small chunks  about 1 inch in diameter and gently press or roll into the coconut.

Place in a single layer in container, cover tightly, and refrigerate.

Makes a dozen or a dozen and a half chunks depending on the size.

Serving

Eat one for dessert or for a little power snack.

Chew well and enjoy.