Name: Carrot Cake Ball Truffles
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup finely grated carrots; 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted; ¾ cup rolled oats; ½ cup almond flour or finely ground nuts; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; ¼ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened, optional); ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); 1–2 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness); Melted white or dark chocolate for coating (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These carrot cake truffles are easy to make, require no oven time, and deliver all the cozy flavor of carrot cake in a fun, portable form. They’re perfect for springtime gatherings, holidays, or a healthy snack anytime. With natural sweetness from carrots and dates, they can be made vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free with simple substitutions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Finely grated carrots
Medjool dates, pitted
Rolled oats
Almond flour or finely ground nuts
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Vanilla extract
Salt
Shredded coconut (unsweetened)
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
Melted white or dark chocolate for coating (optional)

Directions

Add the dates and grated carrots to a food processor and blend until well combined and sticky.
Add oats, almond flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Process again until the mixture forms a soft dough.
Taste and add maple syrup if additional sweetness is desired.
Mix in chopped nuts or shredded coconut by hand if using.
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Place the balls on a lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20–30 minutes to firm up.
If coating in chocolate, dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate and place back on the tray. Let set in the fridge until firm.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 15–20 truffles and takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, including chilling time.

Variations

Vegan Version: Use dairy-free chocolate for coating.
Gluten-Free: Ensure oats are certified gluten-free.
No Added Sweetener: Omit maple syrup and rely on the natural sweetness of dates and carrots.
Spice Blend: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for extra warmth.
Frosted: Drizzle with vegan cream cheese glaze instead of chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

Store truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Are these truffles healthy?

Yes, they’re made with whole food ingredients like oats, dates, carrots, and nuts—great for a wholesome snack or dessert.

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Freshly grated carrots are best for texture and moisture, but pre-shredded will work if finely chopped.

Do I need a food processor?

A food processor is highly recommended for blending the ingredients into a smooth dough-like texture.

Can I make these nut-free?

Yes, substitute almond flour with oat flour and skip the nuts to make them nut-free.

What kind of oats should I use?

Rolled oats work best, but quick oats can be used as well. Avoid steel-cut oats.

How long do they last?

They stay fresh for about 1 week in the fridge and up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?

Absolutely. They’re delicious on their own or rolled in shredded coconut or crushed nuts instead.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, agave syrup or date syrup works well as an alternative to maple syrup.

What if the mixture is too sticky to roll?

Add more oats or almond flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the texture is manageable.

Are these good for kids?

Yes, they’re naturally sweet and full of healthy ingredients—perfect for lunchboxes or snacks.

Conclusion

Carrot Cake Ball Truffles are a quick, easy, and satisfying treat that delivers all the spiced sweetness of carrot cake in a healthier, portable form. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack, a party-ready dessert, or a fun recipe to make with kids, these truffles are a delicious choice that checks all the boxes.