midnight snack.

I don't know about you, but I get ravenous at night. Especially at 2am when a certain someone wakes me up because she's hungry, too. I usually keep a cookie tin full so I can grab a quick snack before heading back to bed, but I got inspired by something I saw on Pinterest and decided to experiment with making something that I can at least pretend is healthy (unlike the brownie cookies I just bought at Jewel).

Bonus: this recipe is easily vegan-ized, for those of you who are in the market for just such a thing :)

I am no food photographer -- but here goes.

CHOCOLATE, OAT, AND NUT ENERGY BITES

3 Tbsp. chocolate or carob chips
4 Tbsp. nut butter (I used cashew butter)
3 Tbsp. milk, any kind (soy, almond, cow, etc.)
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup oats
2 Tbsp. walnuts
2 Tbsp. dried fruit (raisins, dried cranberries, etc.)

Put the first three ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30-second intervals until melted, then stir to combine. Add the vanilla and stir.

Slowly add in the oats, walnuts, and fruit, stirring to combine. The mixture should be fairly dry -- add more oats, one tablespoon at a time, as needed.

Drop the mixture by spoonful into a recycled egg carton, ice cube tray, or other divided container. Press firmly -- it should be packed in. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to set.

Makes 12 bite-sized snacks.

Next time, I might add some flax seeds or protein powder to give it even more of a nutritional boost.

Got a tip for a quick and easy snack recipe? Share it in the comments!