Apple Chocolate No Bake Cookies

(June 2012 note: Not sure what is going on with Blogger, but it seems like any kind of editing, including adding tags, is moving my posts to totally different dates. So, just in case you wonder, this one was originally posted last October. Still, this is a great recipe to keep in mind for summer, when you don't want to turn on the oven. Just don't try for the jack-o-lantern faces now!)




A favorite cookie/candy that is easy for kids to make is the classic chocolate oatmeal concoction often referred to as "No-Bakes." Though not making this sweet "healthy," the addition of apple gives added flavor and allows for a small reduction in added sugar.

Apple Chocolate No Bakes

1 c finely chopped apple, unpeeled
1/2 c plus 1 to 2 T sugar
3 to 4 T butter
3 T cocoa
1 t vanilla
1 1/2 to 1 3/4 c quick (NOT instant) oatmeal

1. Spread the apples in a non-stick or cast iron pan. Sprinkle sugar over the top and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and well caramelized.
2. Add the butter and cocoa and continue cooking another 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Stir in vanilla and then the oatmeal. Pat into a buttered 8 inch square pan or into 8 buttered muffin cups.

Variation: Substitute peanut butter for half to all of the butter.

To prepare the jack-o-lanterns in the picture, press chocolate chips, cashews, and candy corn into the individual no-bakes while still hot so they will melt into the surface. I am still pondering ways to turn these into some kind of turkey for Thanksgiving. Any ideas??