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Best Carrot Cake Protein Balls

Best Carrot Cake Protein Balls

Best Carrot Cake Protein Balls are the perfect no-bake treat for anyone seeking a healthy, delicious, and satisfying snack that captures the essence of your favorite spiced dessert. These delightful bites offer a convenient protein boost without compromising on flavor, making them an ideal grab-and-go option for busy days.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup rolled oats gluten-free if needed
  • 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder whey, casein, or plant-based
  • 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened carrots about 1 medium carrot
  • 1/4 cup smooth natural peanut butter or almond butter
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • pinch ground ginger
  • 2-3 tablespoons water or unsweetened almond milk, as needed

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • Plate
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. If you prefer a finer texture for your protein balls, pulse the rolled oats a few times in a food processor until they are slightly broken down. This is an optional step but can lead to a smoother consistency. If you're happy with whole oats, you can skip this.
    1 cup rolled oats
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, add the rolled oats (pulsed or whole), protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the spices and protein powder.
    1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, pinch ground ginger
  3. To the bowl with the dry ingredients, add the shredded carrots, peanut butter (or almond butter), maple syrup (or honey), applesauce, and vanilla extract.
    1/4 cup shredded unsweetened carrots, 1/4 cup smooth natural peanut butter, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  4. Using a spatula or a sturdy spoon, begin to mix all the ingredients together. You'll want to combine everything until a thick, sticky dough forms. It will likely be quite crumbly at first.
  5. If the dough is too dry and won't hold together, gradually add water or unsweetened almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition. Continue adding liquid until the dough is moist enough to be rolled into balls without falling apart. Be careful not to add too much liquid, or the balls will be too soft.
    2-3 tablespoons water
  6. Once the dough has reached the desired consistency, scoop out about one tablespoon of the mixture at a time. Roll the mixture between your palms to form compact, bite-sized balls. Continue this process until all the dough has been used.
  7. For firmer protein balls, place the rolled balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes before serving. This helps them set up and makes them easier to handle.

Notes

Best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.