Last week it was my turn to bring snacks for the preschool class. Believe it or not, I actually like coming up with new ideas and having an excuse to bake (although DH shakes his head when he finds me sliding pans out of the oven at midnight). My snacks aren’t very cute or visually creative, but they are healthy and tasty, I hope.

This is a recipe my Mom invented, and it is a favorite with all of her grandchildren. It’s great for kids with allergies, and sweet without any sugar. It can easily be made gluten-free or dairy-free.

Papaya Treats

Ingredients:

1 cup dried papaya

3/4 cup water

1/4 cup vegetable or coconut oil

1 tsp vanilla

1/3 cup applesauce

1/4 cup honey

1 egg OR 1 1/2 tsp. egg replacer

1 1/2 cup oats

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp. baking powder

1 cup whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour)

3 cups Rice Krispies (or similar cereal)

Method:

For several hours soak 1 cup papaya in water

Set oven to 350 degrees.

In food processor:

Blend papaya and water with oil, vanilla, applesauce, honey, egg (or egg replacer).

Remove wet ingredients from food processor.

Next blend in food processor the dry ingredients: oats, salt, cinnamon, baking powder.

Remove to a bowl.

Add 1 cup whole wheat flour to above mixture.

Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients.

Mix well, then add Rice Krispies.

Drop by small scoop onto parchment-lined baking sheets.

Bake 15 minutes at 350.