Carrot Cake Protein Balls are a healthy bite-sized treat that offer the nostalgic flavors of classic carrot cake in a compact, no-bake form. They are made with dates, shredded carrots, nuts, and protein powder, and will satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love Carrot Cake Protein Balls

These delicious little treats are vegan (if you use a plant-based protein powder), gluten-free, and free from refined sugars, making them perfect for any dietary need. They are bursting with the nostalgic flavors of classic carrot cake, and can be customized with different variations like chia seeds, raisins, or flax seeds.

These protein-packed treats are not only a delicious dessert but also a convenient on-the-go snack that fuels your body with essential nutrients. The protein will help keep you full for longer, and give you a mid-day energy boost.

Ingredients in Carrot Cake Protein Balls

Shredded carrots – use a box grater to shred your carrots so you get small pieces of carrot throughout the balls
Medjool dates – dates help sweeten the balls, letting us stay refined sugar-free
Vanilla protein powder – you can use your favorite vanilla protein powder (make sure to use plant-based if you want to keep these vegan)
Raw walnuts – healthy fats for brain health!
Raw pecans – two types of nuts give it more flavor
Unsweetened shredded coconut – I like to roll my balls in coconut for that chewy texture

How to make these protein balls

Step 1 – Soak the dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them.

Step 2 – Add all of the ingredients, except for the coconut, to a large food processor.

Step 3 – Pulse for about 30 seconds, until the the dates start to break up and the mixture comes together like a dough. If it is not evenly mixed, use a spoon to scrape down the sides keep pulsing a few more times.

Step 4 – Put the shredded coconut in a bowl off to the side. Take about 1 tbsp of the dough mixture and roll between your hands to form a ball. Then roll the ball around in the coconut to coat the outside. Set aside and continue with the rest of the mixture.

Step 5 – You can eat them immediately, but they are even better once they have had time to chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps them firm up a bit.

Variations + Add-Ins!

You can get SO creative with snack balls like these! There are several fun things that you can add in if you have them on hand.

Chia seeds – add 1-2 tbsp for extra protein and healthy fats
Flax seeds – add 1-2 tbsp of ground flax seeds if you want to add more fiber
Melted chocolate – instead of rolling them in coconut, you could drizzle melted chocolate over the top, or even dip them in it!
Raisins – if you are team raisins in carrot cake (I am!), then you can add about 2 tbsp of raisins

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