I've seen a bunch of these little no-bake-cookie-dough-ball-bites rolling around the internet for quite some time now. Yet, I've never really had the itch to make them. I don't really know why. They're easy, delicious, pretty healthy and fun to make! I guess it's because I knew I'd gobble up all those little guys at once, so why even try. In terms of sweets...my willpower leaves a lot to be desired.... Well, I'm happy to say that yesterday I put on my big girl underpants and I made some of these little mofos. They were super easy and very tasty. And I exhibited excellent willpower in only eating one ball...and maybe several gobs of dough off the spatula. Okay, so it might have ended up to be about the equivalent of 3-4 balls. That's not too bad. Right?

Just look how cute they are! Peppermint Mocha Kahlua is amazing, by the way. I've been using it in my coffee lately but it was begging to be used in a recipe! And no, I am not a Kahlua spokesperson. Maybe I should be though...Anyways, these little cookie dough bites are sweet and nutty and mimic the texture of raw cookie dough perfectly. The cacao nibs lend a rich, dark chocolate crunch!

Peppermint Mocha Cookie Dough Bites

Inspired by Lauren Conrad

Makes 12 bites

2/3 cup raw cashews
1/3 cup dry oats
pinch of kosher salt
1 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
3 Tbsp. maple syrup
2 tsp. Peppermint Mocha Kahlua
1 drop of peppermint extract (optional)
1/4 cup cacao nibs
finishing salt, for topping (optional)

In a food processor, add the oats and processor until they are the texture of flour. Add in the cashews, and pulse until the nuts are pulverized and mixed in well.

Now, add in the remaining ingredients except for the cacao nibs and pulse until very well combined.