Carrot Cake Balls
They are basically raw carrot cake shaped into bite-sized balls. Except unlike traditional carrot cake, these energy balls contain no added sugar and don’t need to be baked! Psst…if you are looking for a healthy carrot cake recipe, you have to try this eggless carrot walnut cake!! The texture is soft, making them perfect for babies and toddlers! Make a batch of these healthy energy bites and enjoy whenever you or your child need an energy boost. They are also perfect for any spring or Easter celebration too. And if you have extra carrots, try these carrot pancakes, carrot banana muffins, and carrot oatmeal cookies.
Ingredients
Carrot – you will need about 1 medium carrot, or about 110 grams. Roughly chop before adding to the food processor. Walnuts – I personally love the carrot and walnuts combination but you can also use almonds, pecans, or cashews. Medjool dates – adds natural sweetness and provides carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. I like to purchase in bulk from Costco as it’s more cost-effective and freeze so I always have some on hand. Oats – Rolled oats works best but you can also use quick oats. Steel cut oats will not work. Cinnamon – adds warmth and depth of flavor Chia seeds – this is optional but a great way to add extra fiber, protein, and omega-3s. Hemp seeds are great too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for Success
Dates – if they are not soft, be sure to soak in hot water for at least 5 minutes, drain and pat dry. Reserve the soaked water to help moisten the balls, if necessary. And don’t forget to remove the pit!! For more flavor and texture, roll the carrot balls in unsweetened shredded coconut. If the dough isn’t coming together, blend a little longer until all the ingredients break down and become sticky. If the dough is too sticky, blend in more oats. If the dough seems too dry, pulse in more water or reserved date water, 1 teaspoon at a time. Adjust the nut and fruit ratio and turn these into the most delicious homemade larabars.
Variations
Nut-free? swap nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds Gluten-free? Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats Desire more texture? add some raisins or even chocolate chips!
Serving Suggestions
These carrot cake bliss balls are great for an easy breakfast with some yogurt and fruits or snack or whenever you or your child need a little pick-me-up. They are also perfect for school lunch boxes!
Equipment
I highly recommend using a food processor if you have one. My husband got me this food processor for Christmas because I want to start making more bliss balls and energy bars for snacks. So far I am LOVING it! You can make this in a high-speed blender, but the texture tuns out differently and the mixture will be really hard to get out of a blender jar.
Storage
These energy balls are best stored in the refrigerator as they will get a bit soft if it’s warm. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week. You can also freeze for up to 3 months. Enjoy straight out of the freezer or thaw in the refrigerator or room temperature.
More Energy Balls
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