No Bake Cookies

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A great family treat to make with the children during rainy winter days is this recipe for no bake cookies which are low fat, low sugar and high in fiber. (They are tasty as well!) Note: this recipe requires no baking, but adult help is necessary to heat the first mixture. After the first mixture is cooled enough to handle, every hand can help to shape the final cookies. The results are worth the effort.

No Bake Cookies 

1 Cup Crispy Rice Cereal
½ Cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans 
½ Cup Chopped Dates
1 Large Egg
¼ Cup Sugar
A Pinch of Salt
¾ Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Shredded Coconut For Dusting        

Combine rice cereal and chopped nuts in a bowl and set aside. Stir together chopped dates, egg, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract in a small skillet over medium heat. Constantly stir the mixture for about 3 minutes or until it turns into a sticky paste. Remove from heat and immediately add rice cereal-nut mixture to it. Combine well by stirring with a big spoon. Cool mixture until it is safe to touch before shaping. Dip hands in cold water and roll mixture into 1 inch balls. Roll in coconut if desired, or additional chopped nuts. Allow to air dry for 60 minutes. Refrigerate.

Yield: 5 or 6 dozen, depending on size of each cookie.