No Bake Carrot Cake Bites (Print)
Naturally sweetened spiced bites with carrots, oats, and walnuts ready in 20 minutes.
# Ingredient List:
→ Base
01 - 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
02 - 1 cup finely grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
03 - 3/4 cup raw walnuts
04 - 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
05 - 1/2 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 6-7 dates)
→ Flavor & Binding
06 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
07 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
08 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
09 - 1/4 tsp ground ginger
10 - 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
11 - Pinch of salt
→ Optional Mix-ins
12 - 1/4 cup raisins
13 - 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
# How-To Steps:
01 - Place oats, walnuts, and shredded coconut in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
02 - Add dates and pulse again until the mixture is crumbly.
03 - Add grated carrots, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Process until the mixture starts to come together and sticks when pressed between your fingers.
04 - Transfer to a bowl. Fold in raisins and extra nuts if using.
05 - With slightly damp hands, roll tablespoonfuls of the mixture into balls. You should get about 18 bites.
06 - Optionally, roll the bites in extra shredded coconut for coating.
07 - Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- They satisfy that afternoon cake craving without any baking time or sugar crash
- The texture evolves in the fridge, getting somehow even better after a day or two
02 -
- If your mixture feels too dry to stick together, add another teaspoon of maple syrup and pulse again
- These taste significantly better after sitting overnight, so make them a day ahead if possible
03 -
- Room temperature carrots incorporate better than cold ones straight from the fridge
- Soak your dates in warm water for 10 minutes if they seem too dry and stiff