No Bake Carrot Cake Bites (Printable)
Spiced, naturally sweet bites capturing classic carrot cake flavors in a wholesome, handheld form.
# What You Need:
→ Base
01 - 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if required)
02 - 1 cup finely grated peeled carrots (about 2 medium)
03 - 1/2 cup raw walnuts
04 - 1/3 cup raw pecans
05 - 1/2 cup chopped pitted Medjool dates (about 6 large)
06 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
07 - 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
08 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
→ Spices
09 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
10 - 1/4 tsp ground ginger
11 - 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
12 - Pinch of salt
→ Optional Add-Ins
13 - 2 tbsp raisins
14 - 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips
15 - 2 tbsp chia seeds
→ For Rolling
16 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
# How To Make:
01 - Place rolled oats, raw walnuts, and raw pecans in a food processor. Pulse until finely ground into a coarse meal texture.
02 - Add grated carrots, chopped Medjool dates, shredded coconut, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and salt. Process until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together when pressed, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
03 - Transfer the mixture to a bowl. If using, gently fold in raisins, mini chocolate chips, or chia seeds with a spatula until evenly distributed.
04 - Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll between your palms to form smooth, compact balls. If desired, roll each bite in additional shredded coconut for coating.
05 - Place the carrot cake bites on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- They taste exactly like traditional carrot cake but come together in twenty minutes flat
- Perfect for grabbing when that afternoon sweet tooth hits but you want something nourishing
02 -
- Overprocessing will turn these into nut butter so watch carefully and pulse in short bursts
- Room temperature ingredients mix much better than cold ones straight from the fridge
03 -
- Wet your hands slightly before rolling to prevent sticking
- Let the food processor run longer if your dates are not breaking down completely