The Bryan Times - Sept. 3, 2019 - Peanut Butter

It's hard to believe summer is coming to an end and kids are back in school already! I thought it only right that we do a little 'talking' about this yummy-for-your-tummy protein-builder that kids love so much.  

Peanut butter has always been a favorite food for kids, and for moms, who could quickly make a lunch their kids would eat. Cooks have used it in all kinds of sweets, from cookies and cakes, to candy and beverages. We're now eating peanut butter in entrees and sides, even for breakfast. Spread peanut butter on toast. It's a great way to start the day with sustaining protein.

By law, peanut butter must contain 90% peanuts, with no artificial sweeteners, coloring or preservatives. 

Here are some fun and unusual (even nutty!) ideas for using this favorite product.

- Have you ever tried to cure hiccups with peanut butter? Try eating a heaping spoonful. Many claim its a definite cure.

- Is your child afraid to take a bandaid off? Coat it with peanut butter, let it sit for 5 minutes, then peel off.  The oils in the peanut butter dissolve the glues. (Adds some 'fun' to the process for your kids too!)

- Try dressing up your brownies with peanut butter. Either stir 1/2 c. into the batter or dollop it over the top of your brownies before baking and swirl. It just may become a favorite way to enjoy them.

- I love adding a heaping tablespoon of peanut butter to my cooked oatmeal. (Drizzle a little chocolate syrup on it for a 'no bake cookie' flavored breakfast!).

You'll feel good about giving these fun, 'healthier choice' protein balls to your kids.  And they will love helping you make them too. 

MONSTER COOKIE PROTEIN BALLS 

1 c. dry (old-fashioned) or quick oats

1/2 c. ground flax seed

1/2 c. (natural) peanut butter

1/3 c. agave nectar or honey

1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 - 1/2 c. mini m & m's 

1/4 - 1/2 c. mini chocolate (or carob) chips 

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl (or food processor for a smoother texture) and chill for 30 minutes. (I prefer to mix oats/flax seed in one bowl; combine peanut butter, honey and vanilla in another, then mix the two together). Roll into balls. Refrigerate. Enjoy.

This smoothie is a delicious and quick breakfast when you're trying to get the kids out the door. 

Healthy Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie

HEALTHY PEANUT BUTTER CUP SMOOTHIE 

1/3 c. old fashioned oats 

handful chopped peanuts

1 tsp. chia seeds, optional

1 tsp. flax seed meal

1 scoop vanilla protein powder

1/2 c. vanilla Greek yogurt

(or add 1 Tb. honey & 1/2 tsp. vanilla to plain Greek yogurt)

1/2 c. milk (or water)

1 banana, frozen

3 Tb. baking cocoa powder

1/3 c. natural peanut butter

1 Tb. carob chips (or chocolate chips) for garnish, optional

8 - 10 ice cubes

Place all ingredients, except for carob chips, in blender. Add about half the ice; blend on high until completely combined and frothy, at least 30 seconds.  Serves 2 or 3. 

A fabulous treat that will have folks begging you for this simple recipe. Easier than making balls and dipping them in chocolate. 

NO BAKE REESE'S PEANUT BUTTER SQUARES

2 sticks margarine, melted

1 c. peanut butter, smooth or chunky

1-1/2 c. powdered sugar

1-1/2 c. fine graham cracker crumbs

1 - 12 ozs. pkg. milk chocolate chips

In large bowl, mix together margarine and peanut butter until smooth. Stir in powdered sugar, then cracker crumbs.  Blend well.  Pat into a 9" X 13" X 2" pan sprayed with cooking spray.  Refrigerate for 1/2 hour.  Melt chocolate chips and spread over top.

A quick and healthier snack  is "Ants on a Log".  Cut celery stalks into pieces, fill with peanut butter and top with raisins.  The kids may choose to make them without your help. 

"Man cannot live by bread alone; he must have peanut butter". -James Garfield