Egg-free molasses bears

Directions

*Making the sweet potato mash

1. Peel 2 small or 1 large sweet potato. Cut into cubes.
2. Place the cubes in a pot of boiling water and cook until tender or until a knife slides in easily.
3. Drain and place in a blender with about 60 ml (¼ cup) of water.
4. Blend on low speed until smooth.

Making the bears 

1. Place rack in top part of oven and preheat to 350°F (180°C).
2. Lightly grease 2 baking sheets. Set aside.
3. In a small bowl, combine chia seeds with 60 ml (¼ cup) water. Set aside for 20 minutes or until gelatin forms.
4. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon and salt. Set aside.
5. In a large bowl, cream margarine, mashed sweet potato and sugar using an electric mixer.
6. Stir in soaked chia seeds and molasses. Beat.
7. Gradually stir in dry ingredients using a wooden spoon.
8. Using an ice cream scoop, divide mixture into 15 cookies on baking sheets.
9. Decorate cookies to look like bears.
10. Use 2 date quarters to make ears and 3 cranberries for the nose and the eyes.
11. Bake 12 minutes.
12. Cool on baking sheets.

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