These keto bagels are soft, chewy, and low in carbs, making them perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with cream cheese and almond flour, they taste amazing without the guilt!
I love to top mine with cream cheese or avocado for a delicious treat. They’re super easy to make—just mix, shape, and bake. Who knew low-carb could be so yummy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded mozzarella cheese: This is the backbone of the bagel’s texture. Mozzarella provides that delightful chewiness. If you can’t find mozzarella, you can use any low-moisture cheese, such as provolone or even a mix of Italian cheeses.
Cream cheese: Cream cheese adds a rich flavor and helps bind the ingredients. For a dairy-free option, you could substitute with a vegan cream cheese or a nut-based spread to maintain the creaminess without dairy.
Almond flour: This flour gives the bagels their keto-friendly base. If you have nut allergies, you can swap it with sunflower seed flour, though this might change the taste slightly. Just make sure to watch the quantity, as it can absorb moisture differently.
Baking powder: A must for the rise! If you’re looking for a grain-free alternative, you might try using baking soda with vinegar, which can provide a similar leavening effect.
How Do You Ensure a Smooth Cheese Mixture?
Melting the cheese correctly is key to your bagels. Since mozzarella can be tricky to melt, follow these steps for success:
- Start with small chunks of mozzarella and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time. This prevents overheating and ensures an even melt.
- If the cheese isn’t melting well, add a drop of water and continue heating, as the steam can help achieve that smooth texture.
What’s the Best Way to Shape Your Bagels?
Shaping is an important step in getting that classic bagel look. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Divide your dough into 5 even pieces to keep the sizes uniform.
- Roll each piece into a ball and then gently flatten it with your palm.
- To create the hole, use your finger to poke through the center and gently stretch it out to form a ring. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; bagels come in all shapes!
Remember, patience is key in both melting and shaping the dough. Enjoy your keto bagels warm for a delicious treat!
How to Make Keto Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bagel Dough:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1 ¼ cups almond flour (blanched)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tsp onion powder (optional, for flavor)
For Topping:
- Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This keto bagel recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and another 12-15 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes to make delicious, low-carb bagels that are perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your bagels won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup!
2. Melt the Cheese:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and cream cheese. Microwave them together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the mixture is smooth and melted. This step is crucial for achieving that gooey bagel texture!
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. These dry ingredients will form the base of your dough, giving it flavor and structure.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Add the two eggs and the apple cider vinegar (if using) to the bowl with your dry ingredients. Mix well until everything is combined into a batter.
5. Form the Dough:
Pour the melted cheese mixture into the almond flour mixture. Mix thoroughly until a dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, don’t worry! You can chill it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes, which will make it easier to handle.
6. Shape the Bagels:
Divide the dough into 5 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it slightly and poke a hole through the center to create your bagel shape. Feel free to stretch the hole a bit for that classic bagel look!
7. Add Your Toppings:
Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the tops with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or your favorite everything bagel seasoning to add some extra flavor and crunch.
8. Bake the Bagels:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bagels for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the bagels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or toasted with your favorite keto-friendly toppings like cream cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon for a satisfying meal!
These keto bagels are sure to become a favorite in your low-carb meal planning. Enjoy the chewy, delicious bite without the guilt!
Can I Use Different Cheese for This Recipe?
While shredded mozzarella is ideal for its melting properties, you can also use other low-moisture cheeses like provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses. Just be aware that flavor and texture may vary slightly!
What Should I Do If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. You can also add a bit more almond flour, a tablespoon at a time, to help with the consistency.
How Should I Store Leftover Bagels?
Store any leftover bagels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them in a zip-top bag for longer storage. Just pop them in the toaster to reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Add Different Herbs or Spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices or dried herbs to customize your bagels. Some great options include dried oregano, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat!