Description
No-Bake Carrot Cake Energy Bites are quick, wholesome, and deliciously spiced snacks perfect for busy days. Made with natural, nutrient-dense ingredients like shredded carrots, rolled oats, dates, walnuts, and plant-based cream cheese, these bite-sized treats provide a sweet and energizing pick-me-up without any oven time. Infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, they capture the comforting flavors of classic carrot cake in a portable, allergy-friendly snack that can be easily customized.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded carrots (fresh)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (natural)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
- 1/3 cup plant-based cream cheese (plant-based)
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots and Dates: Finely shred fresh carrots to ensure they blend well and keep moisture balanced in the bites. Pit the dates and soak them in warm water for 10 minutes if they are dry to soften for easier blending.
- Blend the Base: In a food processor, combine the soaked dates, plant-based cream cheese (plant-based), and natural gelling agent. Blend until smooth and creamy, creating the sweet, creamy base that holds the bites together.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix shredded carrots, rolled oats, chopped walnuts, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract (natural). Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and nuts.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the creamy date mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Fold together using a spatula or your hands until fully combined, forming a slightly sticky dough that is easy to roll.
- Shape the Bites: Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray to maintain size consistency and ease of snacking.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the bites for at least 30 minutes to allow the natural gelling agent to firm up the mixture. Once chilled, the bites hold together perfectly and are ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded carrots for optimal moisture and natural sweetness.
- Soaking dates softens them for smoother blending and better binding.
- Adjust texture by adding more oats if mixture is too wet or more plant-based cream cheese (plant-based) if too dry.
- Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to vary the spice profile.
- Store bites chilled to maintain firmness and freshness longer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites (about 40g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: no-bake, carrot cake, energy bites, healthy snack, gluten free, plant-based, vegan, quick snack, natural sweetener