Carob-Nut Balls

These healthy treats are fun for kids to help you make.

1/4 cup almonds

1/4 cup walnuts

1 cup raisins

4 dried figs or dates, pits removed

1/4 cup carob powder

2 teaspoons blackstrap molasses

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom

1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger or 1/8 teaspoon powdered Pinch sea salt

About 2 tablespoons water

Carob powder or unsweetened shredded coconut for rolling

Place almonds and walnuts in food processor with metal blade and pulse to chop. Add raisins, figs or dates, molasses, vanilla, cardamom, ginger, and sea salt. Process until everything is uniformly chopped. Add water a little at a time until mixture holds together. Roll into 1-inch balls. Roll balls in shredded coconut or carob powder if desired. Keep balls refrigerated if you are plan to keep them around more than a day or two.

Makes about 2 dozen

Note: Other nuts or seeds can be substituted for the almonds and walnuts.