No Bake Carrot Cake Bites (Print Version)

Spiced, naturally sweet bites with classic carrot cake flavor. Quick no-bake treat made wholesome with oats, carrots, and nuts.

# What You Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 cup rolled oats, certified gluten-free if needed
02 - 1 cup shredded carrots, peeled and finely grated (about 2 medium)
03 - 1/2 cup raw walnuts
04 - 1/3 cup raw pecans
05 - 1/2 cup pitted Medjool dates, chopped (about 6 large)
06 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
07 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Spices

09 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
11 - 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 - Pinch of salt

→ Optional Add-Ins

13 - 2 tablespoons raisins
14 - 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
15 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds

→ For Rolling

16 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

# Directions:

01 - Add rolled oats, raw walnuts, and raw pecans to a food processor. Pulse until finely ground, scraping down the sides as needed.
02 - Add shredded carrots, chopped Medjool dates, unsweetened shredded coconut, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and salt. Process until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together when pressed. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides.
03 - Transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in raisins, mini chocolate chips, or chia seeds if desired, using a spatula to distribute evenly.
04 - Scoop approximately tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, compact balls.
05 - Roll each finished bite in additional shredded coconut if a textured coating is desired. Press gently to ensure adherence.
06 - Place the carrot cake bites in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm. 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 capture the exact spiced comfort of carrot cake without the hour-long bake time or sugar crash
  • The texture improves after a night in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prep Sundays
02 -
  • If your dough will not hold together, add one more date or a teaspoon of water and pulse again
  • These taste significantly better after resting overnight in the fridge
03 -
  • Room-temperature dates process much more evenly than cold ones straight from the fridge
  • Line your storage container with parchment paper to prevent sticking