The origins of this recipe are still a matter of open and often heated debate among my sisters and me, but there is one thing on which we can all agree: It is a favorite of my sister Elizabeth who has special needs. This recipe allows her to come into the kitchen with the rest of us and make something truly delicious. Salted peanuts are best; either cocktail or dry-roasted works well.

　　

Ingredients

makes about 3 dozen

　　1 cup smooth or chunky peanut butter (not natural)

　　1/2 cup honey

　　1/2 cup powdered sugar

　　2 cups finely crushed salted peanuts

　　

Special Equipment

3 dozen small paper candy cups

　　

Step 1

In a medium mixing bowl, place the peanut butter, honey, and powdered sugar. Stir until well blended and smooth.

　　

Step 2

Place the crushed peanuts in a shallow dish. Wet your hands and shake off the excess water. Scoop out a heaping teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture and roll it into a 1-inch ball. Place the ball in the crushed peanuts and gently roll until coated. Place the ball in a candy cup and continue with the remaining peanut mixture and peanuts. When all the balls are formed, refrigerate them until firm, about 1 hour. Serve.

　　

Step 3

Store in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

　　

From Aunt Elsa’s Kitchen

Step 4

When hand-rolling sticky doughs like this one, rinsing your hands in cool running water helps keep the mixture from sticking to them. Rinse several times as you work, and shake off the excess water each time.

　　Eva's Kitchen