Enjoy the classic flavors of carrot cake in a wholesome, no-bake bite. These spiced carrot and walnut bites work well as a quick snack, a pre-workout option, or a light dessert. They are naturally sweetened with Medjool dates and feature carrots, oats, chia seeds, and walnuts for satisfying texture and flavor.
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword Healthy snacks, Meal prep snacks, No bake recipes
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Total Time 20 minutesminutes
Servings 28
Calories 67kcal
Equipment
High-Powered Food Processor
Box Grater
Measuring cups and spoons
Small Bowl or Plate
Parchment-Lined Baking Sheet
Ingredients
1 ⅓cupsMedjool datespitted
⅔cupold-fashioned rolled oats
⅓cupraw walnuts
⅓cupchia seeds
2large carrotspeeled and finely grated (approx. 155 g)
1 ¼teaspoonspure vanilla extract
1teaspoonground cinnamon
⅔teaspoonground ginger
⅓teaspoonground turmeric
¼teaspoonground nutmeg
¼cupunsweetened shredded coconutfor rolling
Instructions
Prepare the Flour Base: In the bowl of a food processor, add the rolled oats, walnuts, chia seeds, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and nutmeg. Pulse 5–7 times until the mixture is broken down into a coarse, fragrant flour.
Combine Main Ingredients: Add the pitted dates and finely grated carrots to the processor with the flour base. Pour in the vanilla extract.
Process the Dough: Secure the lid and process continuously for 1 to 2 minutes. Stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl once or twice to ensure everything is evenly mixed. The dough is ready when it is sticky and forms a large ball.
Form the Bites: Scoop out heaping teaspoons of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each). Roll each portion firmly between your palms to create a smooth, compact ball.
Coat and Set: Spread the unsweetened shredded coconut onto a small plate or in a shallow bowl. Roll each energy bite in the coconut to coat all sides. Place the finished bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill (Optional but Recommended): For the best texture, refrigerate the bites for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up before serving.
Notes
Storage: Keep the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before enjoying.
Ingredient Swaps: Pecans or almonds work beautifully in place of walnuts. For a nut-free version, substitute the walnuts with raw sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Dough Consistency: If the dough seems too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of water and pulse again. If it is too sticky to handle, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before rolling.
Yield: This recipe typically makes about 28 bites, but the exact number will vary depending on how large you roll each ball.