Healthy Carrot Cake Energy Balls
These Healthy Carrot Cake Energy Balls are a no-bake, nutritious snack that captures all the warm, spiced flavors of classic carrot cake without the guilt. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, shredded carrots, nuts, coconut, and naturally sweetened with dates or honey, they’re packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein to keep you energized. Perfect for meal prep, they store well in the fridge or freezer for a grab-and-go treat. Whether you enjoy them as a pre-workout snack, mid-day pick-me-up, or healthy dessert alternative, these energy balls are easy to make and even easier to love!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats old-fashioned or quick oats
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder optional but boosts protein content
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup finely shredded carrots freshly grated for the best texture
- ½ cup Medjool dates pitted and chopped (about 6-8 dates)
- ¼ cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 tablespoons raisins for extra sweetness
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds for added fiber and Omega-3s
- ½ teaspoon orange zest for a citrusy kick
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by grating the carrots using a fine grater to ensure they blend well with the other ingredients.
- If your Medjool dates are firm, soak them in warm water for 5–10 minutes to soften, then drain and chop.
- Blend the Base
- In a food processor, combine the dates, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and sticky.
- Add the rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and protein powder (if using). Pulse until the mixture starts coming together.
- Add the Carrots
- Add the shredded carrots and any optional add-ins (raisins, chia seeds, or orange zest). Pulse again until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water or more almond butter. If it’s too sticky, add more oats or coconut.
- Roll into Balls
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into bite-sized balls using your hands.
- If desired, roll the balls in shredded coconut or crushed nuts for extra texture.
- Chill and Enjoy!
- Place the energy balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Enjoy them right away or store them for later!
Notes
Make-Ahead Tips
✔️ Double the Batch – These energy balls disappear fast! If you want to have snacks ready for the whole week (or longer), consider making a double batch.✔️ Pre-Roll and Store – Roll all the energy balls in one go, so you don’t have to prep snacks throughout the week.
✔️ Chill for Best Texture – While you can eat them immediately, refrigerating them for at least 30 minutes helps them firm up and develop even better flavor.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator (Short-Term Storage)
📌 Store the energy balls in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 7 days.📌 If stacking them, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer (Long-Term Storage)
📌 For longer storage, place the energy balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour until firm.📌 Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
📌 To enjoy, remove a few balls and let them thaw at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before eating. ✅ Pro Tip: You can eat them straight from the freezer for a firmer, chewier texture—perfect for a refreshing snack on hot days! By following these simple storage tips, you’ll always have a batch of Healthy Carrot Cake Energy Balls ready whenever cravings strike! 😊