No Bake Carrot Cake Bites (Printable)

Spiced, naturally sweet bites with carrots, oats, nuts, and warm cinnamon. Ready in 20 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 cup rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
02 - 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely grated)
03 - 1/2 cup raw walnuts
04 - 1/3 cup raw pecans
05 - 1/2 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 6 large), chopped
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

# How To Make It:

01 - Add oats, walnuts, and pecans to a food processor. Pulse until finely ground into a coarse meal texture.
02 - Add shredded carrots, dates, shredded coconut, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Process until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together when pressed, scraping down the sides as needed.
03 - Transfer mixture to a bowl and fold in raisins, chocolate chips, or chia seeds if using, mixing gently with a spatula to distribute evenly.
04 - Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll firmly between your palms to form compact, uniform balls.
05 - Roll each finished bite in shredded coconut if desired, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
06 - Refrigerate the bites for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and texture 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 -
  • You get all the spiced comfort of carrot cake without turning on your oven or waiting an hour
  • They travel beautifully in lunchboxes and gym bags without making a mess
02 -
  • Overprocessing makes the oils separate from the nuts so pulse just until combined
  • The dough needs to be sticky enough to hold shape but not so wet that it sticks to your hands
03 -
  • Wring your grated carrots in a clean towel first if they seem extra watery
  • Let the food processor run a bit longer for smoother bites or keep it shorter for more texture