Christmas is coming and that means celebration with cookies. This is one of our family’s favorites. We love the combination of its nutty flavor and the unbeatable sweetness from dates. Even though carrots aren’t my husband’s favorite vegetable, he never minds eating it this way. And I love it because there’s no baking involved. You can enjoy them right away or chill them for about an hour before celebrating together (I usually pop them into the freezer so they can firm up a little more).

Some people call these little cookies energy bites. I have to agree. They’re the ultimate way to get a burst of energy and sweetness in just a bite or two. That’s all it takes and you’re feeling the love. So from me to you on Christmas, let’s celebrate with these tasty carrot cake bites.

Print Recipe

Carrot Cake Bites

A mini piece of carrot cake wrapped up in a bite-size energy ball.

Prep Time15

Total Time15

Course: Dessert

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats use gluten-free if needed
1/2 cup almonds
1/3 cup unsweetened coconut
1 cup grated carrots peeled and packed tight
1/4 cup almond or peanut butter
2/3 cup Medjool dates chopped
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp cardamom

Instructions

Add all ingredients to your food processor. Pulse until the batter mixes together and forms a ball. You may need to add a little water to help your machine continue to blend. Scrape the sides as needed. This should take only 2-3 minutes.
Shape the batter into small balls by rolling between your hands. This is the sticky part, so occasionally moisten your hands so the balls don't stick to you. Or you can use plastic gloves for this step. Make the balls about the size of a small apricot.
Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in a freezer for about an hour. This will make them a little firmer. Or you can just enjoy them right away.

Notes

Did you know that the average American eats 22 teaspoons of sugar every day? The American Heart Association recommends that women eat up to 6 teaspoons daily, 9 teaspoons for men, and 4 teaspoons for preschoolers and school-age children.

Does it surprise you that the American Heart Association would be the one making these recommendations? This is because a high sugar diet can have a harmful effect on your heart. Too much sugar increases inflammation in the walls of your arteries which, over time, can lead to a fatal heart attack. You can reduce the sugar in desserts by using dried fruits as a sweetener. Plus, you’ll be getting additional fiber which will boost your health in many ways. The fiber can significantly lower your cholesterol naturally.