When it comes to fall foods, pumpkin is always stealing the spotlight. But carrots deserve their time to shine too! And, these healthy carrot cake energy bites are the perfect way to showcase all of the sweet and nutritious properties of this grounding fall veggie. Plus, these fall-flavored energy bites are full of other satiating nutrients like oats, almond butter, and pecans. Best of all, this delicious recipe (that tastes like dessert) is made with less than ten ingredients and full good-for-you nutrients to fuel your day.
Enjoy these carrot cake energy bites as an on-the-go snack, a post-workout refuel, or as an energizing addition to a nutritious breakfast.
Carrot Cake Energy Bites Ingredients
Rich in nutrients, made with plant-based ingredients, and full of fall flavor — really, what’s not to love?
Oats
We used satiating oats as our base for these nourishing carrot cake energy bites. Oats are rich in a special type of fiber, beta-glucan, that not only helps us feel fuller for longer but has also been shown to be especially beneficial for weight loss efforts. And, these whole grains give us a steady stream of energy to power through the day while providing a creamy, subtle sweetness. Yum!
Carrots
We can’t have carrot cake without carrots! This vibrant root veggie is rich in vitamin A to support healthy, glowing skin (a necessity, especially during the dry months of fall!). Plus, carrots are chocked full of beta-carotene, the anti-aging nutrient that further supports skin health boosts immune functioning, and benefits eyesight.
Pecans
Full of 19 powerful vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, pecans pair deliciously with the other fall ingredients like cinnamon and maple syrup. Feel free to swap out pecans for any nut or seed of choice!
Flaxseeds
We added these small but mighty seeds for a plant-based boost in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Fiber-rich flaxseeds work to support digestion and satiety, while omega-3 fatty acids support heart health.
Almond Butter
The sweet and grounding flavor profile of almond butter brings this fall-flavored recipe to life! As for nutrition, almond butter is rich in both protein and healthy fats to keep you fueled and energized.
Pecan butter, pumpkin seed butter, and granola butter (yes, granola butter!) would also be delicious alternatives!
Cinnamon
This warming spice is the quintessential flavor of fall. Its natural sweetness enhances the dessert-like taste of this recipe without adding any extra calories or sugar.
Maple Syrup
We chose maple syrup as our fall-inspired sweetener of choice. While it’s still sugar, it’s one of nature’s natural sweeteners, meaning it’s free from additives or artificial flavors and comes with a mighty source of nutrients (such as minerals and potent antioxidant properties).
Toppings & Flavorings
We added a splash of vanilla for subtle sweetness and a sprinkle of coconut for that final carrot cake touch. To uplevel the already delicious fall flavor, try rolling these bites in toasted crushed pecans!
Carrot Cake Bites
Ingredients:
- ½ cup oats, rolled
- 1 cup pecans halves
- 2 tbsp flax seeds
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 tbsp almond butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- Shredded coconut for rolling
Step #1: Gather Your Ingredients and Supplies
Start by portioning out your ingredients and gathering your supplies, such as your bowls, measuring cups, and food processor.
Step #2: Add Your Base Ingredients to a Food Processor
Add all ingredients, minus the shredded coconut to a food processor.
Step #3: Pulse Ingredients Into a Dough
Pulse until the mixture comes together, adding a small amount of water if needed. Once the dough has formed, place in the fridge for 15 minutes.
Step #4: Measure the Dough Into Even Bites
Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge. Next, using a small scoop or tablespoon, measure your dough into even bites.
Step #5: Roll into Bite-Sized Balls
Next, roll the dough into your carrot cake energy bites!
Step #6: Plate & Prepare Your Coconut Topping
Once your bite-sized balls are formed, add your coconut topping to a plate.
Step #7: Roll Your Bites In Coconut
Now, top your energy bites by rolling the formed balls in the shredded coconut.
Step #8: Enjoy & Store for Later!
Once you’ve added your toppings, enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Energize Your Day with A Taste of Fall
With less than ten fall-inspired ingredients and just a handful of simple steps, whip these energizing carrot cake energy bites up with ease. Add them to your weekly meal prep lineup and snack away all season long!
