Start by prepping your ingredients. Grate the carrots using the small holes on your grater. Set them aside. If you’re using whole pecans or walnuts, chop them into smaller pieces for better texture.
In your food processor, combine the pitted dates, pecans (or walnuts), grated carrots, raisins, shredded coconut, cinnamon, sea salt, and one teaspoon of vanilla. Pulse until everything is finely chopped and well combined. You want a sticky mixture that holds together when pressed.
Add the cream cheese and butter (or coconut butter) to the mixture. Pulse again until the cream cheese is fully incorporated, and the mixture is smooth.
Add the powdered sugar to the mixture, along with the additional teaspoon of vanilla. Blend until everything is well combined and the dough reaches a thick, moldable consistency. If it’s too dry, you can add a splash of water or more cream cheese to help it come together.
Using your hands, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place them on a cookie sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Continue until all the mixture is rolled into bites.
Refrigerate the rolled bites for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle when serving.
