• 2 cups raw walnuts

• 2 teaspoons neutral oil (such as canola, avocado, or walnut oil)

• 1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• pinch of salt 

• 1/2 cup dried fruit like tart cherries, cranberries, or blueberries, roughly chopped

1. Add walnuts, oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract and salt to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and become walnut butter.

2. Place walnut butter in a large bowl. Add oats and dried fruit.

3. Using clean hands, scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls. Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Tips

• Oats can be lightly toasted in pan or in toaster oven.

• Make a double batch and freeze.

• Swap honey for maple syrup.

• Add a pinch of spices like cinnamon or cardamom for extra flavor.