These no-bake carrot cake bars offer all the flavors of traditional carrot cake without the fuss of baking. Combining the natural sweetness of carrots and dates with the richness of nuts and a hint of coconut, these bars are not only delicious but also healthy, vegan, and gluten-free. Ready in under 30 minutes, they are the perfect snack for those who crave something sweet and satisfying but prefer to keep it wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This: These carrot cake bars are incredibly easy to make and require no oven, making them ideal for warm days when you want a sweet treat without heating up the kitchen. They are packed with nutrients from natural ingredients like oats, carrots, and pecans, providing a great source of energy. The creamy Greek yogurt topping adds a refreshing contrast to the dense and flavorful bars, enhancing their overall appeal.
Perfect Occasion: These bars are versatile enough for various occasions. They make a great on-the-go breakfast, a convenient snack during busy days, or a healthy dessert option for picnics and gatherings. They’re also perfect for meal prepping at the start of the week to ensure you always have a nutritious snack on hand.
Decoration Tips: To make these bars even more appealing, consider drizzling a little melted dark chocolate over the top before adding the Greek yogurt layer. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a spicier twist. For a nuttier flavor and additional crunch, top with crushed walnuts or almonds along with the pecans.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of oats (gluten-free if necessary)
- 1/4 cup desiccated coconut
- 1/2 cup pecans (or any preferred nuts), additional for topping
- 1 large carrot, grated (extra for topping)
- 15 large soft dates
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- Greek yogurt (for topping)
Instructions:
- In a food processor, blend the oats, desiccated coconut, pecans, grated carrot, dates, maple syrup, and peanut butter until well combined and the mixture sticks together.
- Line a loaf tin with parchment paper for easy removal. Transfer the mixture to the tin.
- Press the mixture firmly with your fingers or the back of a spoon, ensuring it is smooth and even.
- Spread a generous layer of Greek yogurt over the top of the pressed mixture. Sprinkle with additional chopped pecans and grated carrot for decoration.
- Place the tin in the freezer and allow the bars to set for about 15 minutes, or until firm.
- Once set, remove the bars from the freezer and slice into individual servings.
Enjoy these delightful no-bake carrot cake bars, a quick and healthy treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while offering nutritional benefits!
