Vegan Carrot Balls Recipe – Why This Recipe?
One sunny afternoon, I stumbled upon a vibrant farmers’ market, brimming with fresh carrots and fragrant spices. Inspired by my love for nutritious yet delightful snacks, I envisioned a recipe that’s not just vegan-friendly but also packed with fiber and flavor. These vegan carrot balls not only offer a nutrient-rich snack alternative but also pay homage to diverse culinary traditions. With a unique twist using aromatic spices and healthy fats, this snack promises to energize and satisfy.
In this post, you’ll learn step-by-step how to prepare Vegan Carrot Balls, discover clever variations for dietary needs, and gain insightful tips from my kitchen to yours.
PrintVegan Carrot Balls Recipe
- Total Time: PT0H45M
- Yield: 16 balls 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy, delicious vegan carrot balls packed with nutrients, perfect for healthy snacking or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup finely chopped dates
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Sesame seeds or shredded coconut for coating
Instructions
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Combine grated carrots, oats, almond flour, coconut, and dates.
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Mix in maple syrup and spices until dough forms.
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Roll dough into balls and coat with sesame seeds or coconut.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Notes
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Store refrigerated up to a week.
-
Perfect as a make-ahead snack.
- Prep Time: PT0H15M
- Cook Time: PT0H0M
- Category: Healthy Recipes
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegan carrot balls recipe, healthy snack, gluten-free
Vegan Carrot Balls Recipe – Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients List
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup finely chopped dates
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave nectar)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Sesame seeds or shredded coconut for coating
Dietary Substitutions:
- Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Keto-friendly: Replace dates and maple syrup with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Combine grated carrots, rolled oats, almond flour, coconut, and dates in a large bowl.
- Flavor Mixture: Add maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Form Balls: Roll about 1 tablespoon of dough into balls. Coat them with sesame seeds or coconut.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set firmly.
Chef Greeny’s Tip: Avoid overmixing; it can make the carrot balls dense rather than fluffy.
Notes and Pro Tips
- Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve chilled with a cup of herbal tea or almond milk latte.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough a day ahead and roll just before serving for ultimate freshness.
Vegan Carrot Balls Recipe – Nutritional Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount (~) |
---|---|
Calories | 85 |
Carbohydrates (g) | 12 |
Protein (g) | 2 |
Total Fat (g) | 3.5 |
Saturated Fat (g) | 0.7 |
Unsaturated Fat (g) | 2.8 |
Trans Fat (g) | 0 |
Fiber (g) | 2 |
Sugar (g) | 5 |
Cholesterol (mg) | 0 |
Sodium (mg) | 60 |
Vegan Carrot Balls Recipe – History and Cultural Significance
Carrot-based snacks have a fascinating history, deeply rooted in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines. Traditional variations often use spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, celebrated for their antioxidant properties. Similar dishes include Indian carrot halwa and Middle Eastern carrot desserts, signifying how carrots have historically bridged sweet and savory dishes across cultures.
Vegan Carrot Balls Recipe – Creative Variations
- Spicy Kick Variation: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- Diabetic-Friendly Version: Substitute dates and maple syrup with sugar-free alternatives like erythritol.
- Low-Carb/Keto Variation: Use coconut flour instead of oats and replace sweeteners with stevia.
Adaptation Tip: Always adjust sweetness levels gradually to match your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan Carrot Balls Recipe – Frequently Asked Questions
Can you freeze Vegan Carrot Balls?
Absolutely! Store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
How do you make Vegan Carrot Balls gluten-free?
Use gluten-free oats to ensure your snack is entirely gluten-free.
Are carrot balls healthy?
Yes! They’re rich in fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, making them an excellent nutritious snack option.
What can I use instead of almond flour?
You can substitute almond flour with oat flour or coconut flour, depending on your dietary preferences.
How many calories are in each Vegan Carrot Ball?
Each carrot ball contains approximately 85 calories, making them a great light snack option.
Vegan Carrot Balls Recipe – Final Thoughts
These Vegan Carrot Balls are a delightful fusion of health and taste, making snacking guilt-free and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout boost or a nutritious treat for your kids, this recipe is adaptable, tasty, and simple to prepare. Rich in fiber and packed with nutrients, they support digestion and energy levels throughout the day.
Tried this Vegan Carrot Balls Recipe? Share your tasty results or favorite variation below! For further nutritional insights, you might enjoy reading more about carrots and their health benefits on Wikipedia.