Easy Dairy Free Low Carb Strawberry Overnight Oats

This delicious dairy free low carb strawberry overnight oats recipe is an easy breakfast with the best texture and 22 grams of protein!

This delicious dairy free low carb strawberry overnight oats recipe is an easy breakfast with the best texture and 22 grams of protein!

Dairy-Free Overnight “Oats” Without Oats

If you’ve been searching for healthy overnight oats, you’ve probably seen recipes using rolled oats, old-fashioned oats, steel-cut oats, or even quick oats.

But for many women—especially in midlife—those traditional overnight oat recipes don’t support fat loss, blood sugar balance, or inflammation goals.

That’s exactly why I created this easy dairy free low carb strawberry overnight oats-without using oats at all. I adapted my Cottage Cheese Overnight Mock Oats recipe and made it dairy free.

This vegan overnight oats recipe still gives you that creamy oats texture, delicious strawberry goodness flavor, and the convenience of a make-ahead breakfast recipe for busy mornings… but without the high carb load from traditional old fashioned oats, instant oats or steel cut oats.

dairy free keto strawberry overnight oats

Why I Don’t Use Oats (Even Certified Gluten-Free Oats)

Even though oats are often marketed as a healthy breakfast, they don’t work for everyone-especially if your goal is fat loss or metabolic health.

Here’s why I skip oats completely, even certified gluten-free oats:

  • High carb load – oats can spike blood sugar and increase cravings
  • Not ideal for insulin resistance – especially important in midlife
  • Can stall weight loss – even when labeled “healthy”
  • Glyophosphate exposure concerns – oats are commonly sprayed before harvest
  • Low protein compared to need – not enough to support muscle and metabolism

Instead, I use a combination of:

These create that perfect oat mixture texture while providing healthy fats, fiber, and better satiety.

keto mock overnight oats

Why So Many Women Are Going Dairy-Free

More and more women in perimenopause and menopause are choosing dairy-free breakfast recipes, and here’s why:

  • Digestive issues – bloating, gas, or discomfort from lactose intolerance
  • Inflammation concerns – dairy can be inflammatory for some individuals
  • Skin issues – acne or irritation linked to dairy intake
  • Hormonal balance – some find reducing dairy helps stabilize symptoms
  • Allergy or sensitivity – even high-quality dairy doesn’t work for everyone

That’s why this recipe uses unsweetened coconut yogurt and plant-based milk options instead of traditional greek yogurt, cottage cheese or milk.

This delicious dairy free low carb strawberry overnight oats recipe is an easy breakfast with the best texture and 22 grams of protein!

The Beauty of Overnight “Oats” (Without Oats)

The best part about this recipe is you still get everything people love about overnight oatmeal:

  • A quick breakfast ready the next morning that takes just a few minutes of prep time
  • Perfect for meal prepping or making a big batch
  • No cooking required—just mix and refrigerate
  • Customizable with your favorite fresh fruit, fresh strawberries, or toppings
  • Great for busy mornings when you need something fast
  • High in protein and perfect for Midlife Macros (All nutrition info is at the bottom of the page in recipe card).

Using a mason jar or airtight container, this becomes one of the easiest make-ahead breakfast recipes you’ll rely on all week.

A Great Way to Stay Consistent

This is more than just a fun healthy strawberry recipe—it’s a strategy.

When you have a healthy breakfast ready to go:

  • You avoid skipping meals
  • You reduce cravings later in the day
  • You support blood sugar balance
  • You stay consistent with your goals

And consistency—not perfection—is what leads to results.

low carb dairy free overnight oats

Dairy-Free + Protein Options Explained

This recipe is fully dairy-free as written, but you’ll notice optional protein add-ins.

Here’s how that works:

  • Collagen – dairy-free, great for skin, joints, and added protein
  • Whey protein powder (optional) – helps boost protein, BUT it is dairy-derived

If you are strictly dairy-free, simply skip the whey.

If tolerated, adding whey will:

  • Make this a more complete high protein breakfast
  • Increase protein to 25 grams per serving
  • Improve satiety and support muscle maintenance

Simple Ingredients, Big Nutrition

Unlike traditional overnight oat recipes, this version is:

  • Low carb
  • High fiber
  • Packed with healthy fats
  • Naturally sweetened with liquid stevia
  • Full of fresh berries 

You still get that creamy, slightly thick texture people love in overnight oats, but with ingredients that better support your goals.

keto low carb dairy free overnight mock oats

Want More Easy, Midlife Macro Approved Breakfast Ideas?

If you loved this easy dairy free low carb strawberry overnight oats, this is exactly how I teach women to eat inside my Midlife Macro Meal Plans.

Because here’s the truth—one healthy breakfast recipe is helpful…

But having a full plan is what creates consistency and results.

Inside my meal plans, I take the guesswork out of:

  • How to build high protein, low carb meals that actually keep you full
  • How to balance healthy fats without overdoing it (especially if keto stopped working for you)
  • How to create meals that are Midlife Macro Approved
  • How to enjoy foods like this while still supporting fat loss and hormone balance

You’ll get:

  • Options for dairy-free, gluten-free, and family-friendly meals
  • Done-for-you weekly meal plans
  • Simple ingredients you can find anywhere
  • Recipes that work for busy mornings and real life
Print

Easy Dairy Free Low Carb Strawberry Overnight Oats

Prep Time 5 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 327kcal
Author Brenda Bennett/Sugar Free Mom

Ingredients

Basic Overnight "Oats" Recipe

Instructions

  • Place all ingredients except strawberries, in a mixing bowl and stir together.
  • You need two serving glasses or two- 8 ounce mason jars.
    Add 1/4 of the chopped strawberries to the bottom of each mason jar.
    Add some of the batter over the strawberries in each jar, top with 1/4 more of the strawberries then rest of the batter into each jar. Top with remaining strawberries. Cover and refrigerate.
  • Place in the fridge overnight or at least 3-4 hours to thicken.

Notes

8 g net carbs which does not include optional whey protein. Whey is considered dairy so it is optional but if you do include the whey, you will increase protein to 35 grams and calories to 382, everything else will stay the same.
You can use either 8 ounce mason jars or 12 ounce if you want more room to add fruit. Here’s my Video Tutorial on Pinterest.
Midlife Macro Approved

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 327kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 126IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 4mg

The post Easy Dairy Free Low Carb Strawberry Overnight Oats appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Easy Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Dairy Free Coconut Flan

This Keto Sugar-Free Flan is dairy free, low carb and gluten free! Just 8 ingredients needed to make this fancy looking, tasty, perfect keto dessert for your keto diet! Just 3 net carbs per serving!

Easy Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Dairy Free Coconut Flan

Is Regular Flan Keto Friendly?

My father comes from Sicily and his mother, my Nonna, made flan very often growing up. Of course it was loaded with regular sugar, so definitely high in carbs, not keto friendly and will surely spike blood sugar.

But making it a keto low carb flan was a fairly easy task using low carb sweetener! This recipe got a thumbs up from my dad and he didn’t even realize it was made with coconut!

This is a popular dessert with Italians, Spaniards, and Mexicans. A Mexican flan is really just a simple custard mixture with a caramel sauce, basically caramelized sugar, that oozes over the top of the flan when turned upside down onto a plate.

Typically it’s made with dairy, but in this case today it’s made with coconut milk for a creamy texture and only a slight hint of coconut.

Does the thought of making a flan sound just too tedious of a task or too fancy or just too much work for you? It’s not at all difficult when you have a fantastic fool proof recipe!

Take the worry  out of the equation of whether the flan will come out looking beautiful or not because this recipe will make that happen effortlessly.

Sugar Free Dairy Free Coconut Flan

Is Creme Caramel the same thing as Flan?

Yes, creme caramel or caramel cream and flan are basically the same thing. Creme caramel and flan are actually French names, but in Spanish speaking countries and America, it is known as flan.

Is Creme Brûlée the same thing as flan?

No creme brûlée is not the same as flan. Creme brûlée has a hardened caramel topping while flan has a soft caramel topping.

Sugar-Free Caramel Sauce

The caramel sauce uses a brown sugar Monk Fruit Allulose blend from and butter, but to keep it dairy free just replace the butter with coconut oil instead. 

My kids and hubby absolutely loved this dessert! My youngest actually even hates coconut, but the hint of coconut is very little, he even asked for a second piece!

Keto Dairy Free Flan

How to Make Sugar-Free Flan

To view the nutritional information, see exact measurements and print the recipe, please scroll to the bottom of the blog post to view the recipe card.

Main Ingredients

Eggs

Egg yolks

Canned coconut milk 

Vanilla extract

Coconut liquid stevia or vanilla stevia

Caramel sauce

Monk Fruit Allulose Brown substitute or another brown sugar free sweetener of choice

Butter or use ghee or vegan butter for dairy free

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

In a stand mixer, mix the eggs, yolks, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and stevia until well combined. Set aside.

In a small saucepan add the Caramel sauce ingredients and stir until combined over medium low heat, until bubbles form around the edges.

Simmer one minute, then pour into a 10 inch pie dish, cake pan or 10 individual ramekins. Swirl around to cover bottom of dish. Let sauce cool just 1-2 minutes before pouring the custard mixture over the caramel sauce.

Place the pie dish into a larger roasting pan and place in the oven. Pour 2 cups of hot water on the bottom of the larger roasting pan so the hot water comes 1-2 inches up the sides of the pie dish.

Bake 1 hour or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Cool to room temperature then refrigerate for two hours or overnight. When ready to serve, loosen edges with a knife and invert onto a large plate.

Sometimes if using an erythritol sweetener it can develop crystallization in the refrigerator. If that happens after you invert the flan onto a plate, simply remove can crystallized pieces from the caramel sauce. Enjoy or keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Tools to Make Keto Coconut Flan

10 inch Pie Dish– Any smaller pie dish and you’ll be overflowing with this flan recipe. Stick with a 10 inch and you’ll be all set!

Small Sauce Pan– Use as a double boiling pan or just to make simple sauces like the topping for this flan recipe. 

Roasting Pan– A large turkey roasting pan is needed to bake any kind of cheesecakes or in this recipe, flan, to evenly cook in a water bath. 

Easy Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Dairy Free Coconut Flan

How to Swap Sugar Substitutes

There are many keto sweeteners on the market today but I try to use all natural sweetener in my recipes. Monk Fruit Sweetener is a great option as well as Allulose.

Using allulose produces a less sweet flavor than using stevia or monk fruit. Just be aware you may need more of those sweeteners or combine two sweeteners to get this keto creme caramel as sweet as you prefer.

Please use my Sweetener Guide & Conversion chart to help you determine how much to use when swapping the sweetener in my original recipe.

Keto Dairy Free Coconut Flan

Although this isn’t a typical weeknight kind of dessert it is a wonderful indulgence once in awhile for wow-ing non low carb guests at a party!

How to Store Low-Carb Flan

You can store leftover flan covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Easy Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Dairy Free Coconut Flan

FAQs

Can I make this with whole milk instead of coconut cream?

Yes you can with the same amount as I used.

Can I use heavy cream instead of coconut milk?

Yes you can use the same amount of heavy cream as I used coconut milk.

Can I swap the coconut milk with unsweetened almond milk?

No I would not swap almond milk because it does not contain enough fat as coconut milk or whole milk and will not produce the right texture for this creamy dessert.

Can I swap the sugar-free sweetener with blackstrap molasses or maple syrup?

You can use any sweetener you like but if you are trying to reduce the amount of sugar in your diet and/ or eat low carb or keto, then both molasses and maple syrup will cause a spike in your blood sugar and cause cravings.

Can I make this creamy keto flan recipe in ramekins instead of a large baking dish?

Sure! If you would like to make this elegant dessert in individual servings instead you can use ten- 8 ounce ramekins. Follow the instructions for making the custard and sweet caramel syrup but add that to greased, prepared ramekins.

I would also recommend placing all the ramekins into a large baking pan and hot water so they will bake slowly and evenly in a hot water bath for best results.

More Low-Carb Dessert Recipes

Keto Creme Brûlée

Keto Egg Custard

Slow Cooker Keto Maple Custard

Easy Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Dairy Free Coconut Flan

Print

Sugar Free Keto Coconut Flan

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings 12 slices
Calories 207kcal

Ingredients

Custard

Caramel sauce

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
  • In a stand mixer, mix the eggs, yolks, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and stevia until well combined. Set aside.
  • In a small saucepan add the Caramel sauce ingredients and stir until combined over medium low heat, until bubbles form around the edges. Simmer one minute, then pour into a 10 inch pie dish, cake pan or 10 individual ramekins. Swirl around to cover bottom of dish. Let sauce cool just 1-2 minutes before pouring the custard mixture over the caramel sauce.
  • Place the pie dish into a larger roasting pan and place in the oven. Pour 2 cups of hot water on the bottom of the larger roasting pan so the hot water comes 1-2 inches up the sides of the pie dish.
  • Bake 1 hour or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool to room temperature then refrigerate for two hours or overnight. When ready to serve, loosen edges with a knife and invert onto a large plate.
    If you are using an erythritol sweetener it can develop crystallization in the refrigerator. If that happens after you invert the flan onto a plate, simply remove can crystallized pieces from the caramel sauce. Enjoy or keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Video

Notes

3 g net carbs. This has 12 servings. 
This recipe was first published in February 2014 and updated with video in May 2020.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 207kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 119mg | Sodium: 59mg | Potassium: 201mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 221IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Easy Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Dairy Free Coconut Flan appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Easy Gluten Free Low Carb Keto Pico De Gallo Recipe

Just a handful of ingredients and very little time to make this easy fresh salsa, homemade pico de gallo recipe. A great recipe for the summer with zesty fresh flavor and just 3 net grams of carbs per serving.

Homemade Pico de Gallo Recipe

Pico de gallo, also known as salsa fresca, salsa cruda or fresh salsa is a versatile condiment served in Mexican cuisine to enjoy with tortilla chips, fish tacos, fajitas and many other proteins.

Authentic pico de gallo is made with Roma tomatoes, white raw onion or yellow onion, fresh cilantro, jalapeno peppers and fresh lime juice.

The main difference between a store bought classic salsa in a jar and this raw salsa is that a good pico de gallo is an uncooked salsa. Chunky salsa in a jar is usually a cooked salsa.

You will never want store bought salsa again after trying this delicious pico de gallo!

White Onion versus Red Onion

Traditional pico de gallo recipe usually includes fresh white onion since it has a stronger bite than using red onion, but it can be harder to digest for some people, like myself, so red onion was my preference for this classic Mexican salsa.

Which Fresh Tomatoes are Best

When in season look for the best ripe tomatoes you can find at your local farmers market or grocery store. I found large Beefsteak tomatoes, but the classic recipe uses Roma tomatoes.

Fresh plum tomatoes or even cherry tomatoes would also be delicious.

Fresh Ingredients

Fresh Tomatoes– ripe red tomatoes (plum, cherry, Roma, Beefsteak)

Jalapeno pepper– jalapeno peppers are tolerable for most people as far as spice, but if you and your family really love spicy, serrano peppers would be great.

Fresh Garlic

Fresh limes

Fresh chopped cilantro

Cumin

Salt and pepper

How to Make Easy Pico de Gallo

Please view the recipe card at the bottom of this blog post for the exact ingredients and ability to print as well.

Seriously one of the easiest recipes you will ever make. Once you dice up the simple ingredients needed, you simply add them all to a medium bowl and toss together.

For best flavor and to allow the ingredients to marry, allow to chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours.

How to Customize This Low Carb Pico de Gallo

One of the best things about this easy pico de gallo recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.

  • For a milder version, reduce or omit the jalapeño peppers
  • For more heat, swap in serrano peppers or leave the seeds in
  • Add diced avocado for a creamy twist
  • Mix in chopped cucumber for a refreshing, hydrating variation
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor

This makes it perfect for anyone following a keto diet, low carb lifestyle, or sugar-free way of eating.

Can You Make Pico de Gallo Ahead of Time?

Yes, but for the best flavor and texture, pico de gallo is best enjoyed within 24–48 hours.

If making ahead:

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
  • Drain excess liquid before serving if needed
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten the flavor

Because this is a fresh salsa recipe, it will soften over time, but the flavor will continue to develop.

How to Serve Pico de Gallo

My favorite way to enjoy pico de gallo is with my low carb nacho tortilla chips, but I also love making burrito bowls using cauliflower rice, shredded chicken, avocado, sour cream and this fresh salsa recipe on top.

You can serve this chilled from the fridge or allow to sit a room temperature, it’s personal preference.

More Mexican dishes to serve with the best pico de gallo:

Instant Pot Chicken Tacos

Taco Soup

Chicken Carnitas

Instant pot Barbacao

Storage

Store leftover pico in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Health Benefits of Fresh Pico de Gallo

This healthy pico de gallo recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients from fresh, whole ingredients.

  • Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may support heart health
  • Cilantro contains compounds that may help support detoxification
  • Lime juice provides vitamin C and supports immune health
  • Onions and garlic contain beneficial sulfur compounds that may support metabolism and overall wellness

Because this is a raw, uncooked salsa, you’re getting the maximum nutritional benefit from each ingredient.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

If you’ve ever made pico de gallo that didn’t turn out quite right, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

  • Using unripe or flavorless tomatoes
  • Cutting ingredients too large or unevenly
  • Skipping the resting time
  • Adding too much lime juice (it should enhance, not overpower)
  • Over-salting too early

Keeping these simple tips in mind will help you create the best homemade pico de gallo every time.

Easy Pico de Gallo Recipe

Print

Easy Pico de Gallo (Keto, Low Carb, Gluten Free)

Prep Time 9 minutes
Servings 9 @ 1/3 cup
Calories 17kcal
Author Brenda Bennett/Sugar-Free Mom

Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes Roma or see notes above
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 tbsp jalapeno pepper seeds removed, minced
  • 1 fresh lime juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp pepper

Instructions

  • Place all the ingredients into a medium bowl and toss together. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours before serving.

Notes

Net Carbs: 3g per 1/3 cup serving
This post was first published in August 2022.

Nutrition

Serving: 1@ 1/3 cup | Calories: 17kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.02g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 87mg | Potassium: 155mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 492IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 0.3mg

The post Easy Gluten Free Low Carb Keto Pico De Gallo Recipe appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Easy Homemade Chip Free Low Carb Keto Nachos Recipe

These homemade keto nachos are a delicious, healthier crunchy keto chips nacho recipe without tortilla chips! Healthier Nachos don’t have to be loaded down with chips and this recipe proves it!

Chip free low carb keto nachos

The Best Low Carb Nachos Without Tortilla Chips

Who says you need tortilla chips to enjoy nachos?

This easy low carb keto nacho recipe proves you can skip the chips entirely and still have a crunchy, cheesy, satisfying plate of nachos that fits perfectly into a low carb diet or keto lifestyle.

And honestly?

Nachos have never really been about the chips.

It’s always been about the ground beef (or turkey), melted cheddar cheese, sour cream, and all your favorite nacho toppings layered together into the perfect bite.

This keto nacho chips recipe—originally published in 2014—was truly ahead of its time. And now with the rise of midlife macro eating, it’s more relevant than ever. 

When I started to think about the Super Bowl coming up and game day comfort foods, it got me thinking that finger foods are where it’s at. No one wants to sit down at the table; instead they’d rather eat a party appetizer in front of the TV to watch the game.  

Making a healthier version of nachos has always been on my mind and the Super Bowl prompted my desire to bring you a waist conscious, but still yummy perfect snack that you’d be happy to share with friends who may not be on a keto diet or low carb diet.

loaded keto nachos with veggies

Why These Chip-Free Keto Nachos Work for Midlife Fat Loss

If you’ve been following my Midlife Macro Method, you already know:

  • We focus on high protein
  • We keep fat moderate (not excessive like traditional keto)
  • We reduce unnecessary carbs without sacrificing satisfaction

Traditional nachos made with regular tortilla chips?
They’re easy to overeat, low in protein, and loaded with processed carbs.

These chip-free nachos flip the script:

✔ High protein from ground meat
✔ Lower carbs using fresh veggies instead of chips
✔ Controlled fats with balanced cheese portions
✔ Packed with fiber to keep you full

This makes them midlife macro approved and perfect for fat loss without feeling deprived.

healthy low carb veggie nachos

The Best Low Carb Nacho “Chips” (No Chips Needed!)

Instead of keto tortilla chips or store-bought options, this recipe uses fresh vegetables as the base.

My favorite low carb chip swaps:

  • Bell peppers (red, yellow, green) – sturdy and slightly sweet
  • Zucchini slices – mild and easy to layer
  • Fennel – surprisingly the BEST natural scooper
  • Celery sticks – great crunch if you don’t like fennel
  • Jicama slices or jicama fries – extra crunch option
  • Low carb tortillas (cut and baked) – if you want a more traditional feel
  • Bag of pork rinds – for a crunchy keto snack version

Pro tip: If you want softer “chips,” lightly roast or blanch your veggies on a baking sheet with parchment paper before adding toppings.

easy homemade low carb nachos

Helpful Tips for the Best Keto Nachos

I enjoyed the crunch of the fresh cut veggies with all the nacho toppings over them. My hubby is less of a fan of the crunch from raw veggies and would have preferred if I had blanched them a  bit or even baked them.

 The one issue with precooking the veggies is that you don’t want to over cook them and end up with veggies you can’t pick up and eat with your fingers.

But if that’s something you don’t care about and would rather eat these with a fork and knife then simply steam them untill tender or blanch them in boiling salted water for a few minutes. Then layer the filling as the recipe suggests.

  • Using pre-shredded cheese-be cautious – it contains anti-caking agents; fresh shredded melts better
  • Don’t overload with toppings or veggies will get soggy
  • Use a pizza cutter to portion easily if layered thick
  • Serve immediately—these are best fresh
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in air fryer
  • When I first tried this recipe back in 2014, my children were little and wouldn’t eat the veggie nachos, so I wanted to make sure to have enough filling so that they could have tacos instead.
  • If you would like left over filling like the bowl you see in the picture to use as tacos or just to have extra filling for another day,  uses 1.5 pounds of ground turkey. Double the amount of each taco seasoning as well.
  • Nutrition Info is without additional toppings.

Flavor Variations & Swaps

Protein Options:

  • Ground beef for richer flavor
  • Ground turkey for leaner macros
  • Shredded chicken for a quick shortcut

Dairy-Free Option:

  • Skip cheese and use dairy-free alternatives
  • Add guacamole + salsa for flavor boost

Spice It Up:

  • Add chipotle chili powder
  • Use hot salsa
  • Top with green chilies

Higher Protein Upgrade:

  • Add extra lean meat
  • Mix in collagen peptides (unflavored) to meat mixture
  • Serve with a side of high-protein dip

Easy Homemade Chip Free Low Carb Keto Nachos Recipe

Are These Better Than Traditional Nachos?

Let’s be honest…

Traditional nachos:

  • High in refined carbs
  • Easy to overeat
  • Low in protein

These low carb nachos:

  • Keep you satisfied longer
  • Support fat loss goals
  • Still feel like comfort food

That’s a win.

Air Fryer Method (Quick + Crispy)

  1. Layer veggies and meat mixture in air fryer basket.
  2. Top with cheese.
  3. Cook at medium-high heat (375°F) for 5–7 minutes.
  4. Add toppings and enjoy!
Easy Homemade Chip Free Low Carb Nachos

Easy Homemade Low Carb Keto Nachos

Print

Easy Low Carb Keto Nachos

This recipe proves something I teach all the time: You don’t need to give up your favorite foods to lose weight.You just need a better strategy.And this is exactly what the Midlife Macro Method is about. Food does not control you. You make it work for you.
Course Appetizer
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 131kcal
Author Brenda Bennett | Sugar-Free Mom

Ingredients

  • 3/4 pound ground turkey
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 cup salsa mild or medium
  • 2 cups bell peppers sliced
  • 1 cup fennel bulb outer layer removed, sliced in half
  • ½ cup zucchini sliced
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • Optional Toppings jalapeño, green chilies, sour cream, avocado, bacon

Instructions

  • Cook ground turkey over medium high heat until browned.
  • Add seasonings. Stir to combine.
  • Add salsa and cook until warmed through. Set aside.
  • Place fresh cut veggies onto a serving platter that can be baked or microwaved. Top veggies with meat mixture.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheese over all.
  • Bake for 15 minutes at 350 degrees or until cheese is melted or microwave for 5 minutes.
  • Add optional favorite toppings and enjoy!

Notes

4 g net carbs per serving. This entire recipe makes 8 servings so just divide your plate you are serving nachos on into 8 sections and enjoy!
This recipe was first published in 2014. Original recipe used 1/2 cup black beans. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 131kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 485mg | Potassium: 375mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1642IU | Vitamin C: 51mg | Calcium: 122mg | Iron: 1mg

 

 

 

 

The post Easy Homemade Chip Free Low Carb Keto Nachos Recipe appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Easy Low Carb Keto Chicken Fajita Stuffed Zucchini

This Easy Keto Chicken Fajita Stuffed Zucchini recipe is gluten free, low carb and super easy to make!

fajita stuffed zucchini-2

Low Carb Zucchini Boat Recipe

​If you’re looking for a simple recipe that’s packed with flavor, high in protein, and perfect for a busy weeknight, these Easy Low Carb Keto Chicken Fajita Stuffed Zucchini boats are about to become your new favorite meal.

This dish checks all the boxes:

  • Low carb meals for weight loss or blood sugar balance
  • High protein to keep you full and satisfied
  • Meal prep friendly for busy weeks
  • A great way to use fresh summer zucchini

Think of this as your favorite chicken fajitas, but instead of using taco shells or tortillas, we’re using nutrient-dense whole foods—zucchini boats—to keep carbs low while maximizing flavor and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Fajita Zucchini Boats

There’s something about zucchini dinner recipes that just feel light, fresh, and satisfying—especially when paired with bold taco flavor spices and juicy chicken.

These healthy zucchini boats are:

  • Gluten free and keto diet friendly
  • Made with simple, real food ingredients
  • Perfect for the whole family (with easy swaps!)
  • A great option if you’re working on balancing blood sugar
  • Loaded with g protein to support your metabolism

And the best part? Everything cooks on a baking sheet, making cleanup easy and stress-free.

​Cheesy.

Satisfying.

Stuffed with goodness.

Yet…….

Healthy and Low Carb.

Can’t beat that kind of a meal any night of the week!

fajita stuffed zucchini-1

What Are Zucchini Boats?

If you’ve never made stuffed zucchini, you’re in for a treat.

Zucchini boats are simply:

  • Large zucchinis sliced in half lengthwise
  • The center scooped out (a melon baller works perfectly!)
  • Then filled with a delicious mixture like this chicken fajita stuffing

They’re one of the easiest ways to turn vegetables into a complete meal—and a great alternative to zucchini noodles or pasta.

Zucchini is the king of all vegetables in my opinion when summer comes. It’s so easy to create fabulous low carb recipes without much work in the kitchen. This recipe is the perfect example!

fajita stuffed zucchini-4

Pro Tips for the Best Zucchini Boats

These simple tips will take this great recipe to the next level:

Prevent Excess Moisture

Zucchini naturally holds water, so:

  • Don’t over-scoop the center
  • Pre-baking helps reduce excess moisture
  • You can lightly salt the zucchini before baking to draw out water

Use the Right Size Zucchini

  • Choose large zucchinis for sturdy boats
  • Avoid overly large ones with tough zucchini skin

Sheet Pan Success

  • Spread chicken and veggies evenly on the baking sheet
  • Don’t overcrowd—this helps everything roast instead of steam
fajita stuffed zucchini-5

Easy Swaps and Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible depending on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Protein Swaps

  • Use ground chicken or ground turkey
  • Try ground beef for a richer flavor
  • Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a faster version

Dairy-Free Option

  • Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives
  • Replace sour cream with dairy-free options

Add More Flavor

  • Add tomato sauce or pasta sauce for a saucier filling
  • Toss in black olives or jalapeños for extra kick

For the Family

If your kids aren’t into zucchini:

  • Serve the filling in traditional tacos by the brand Siete
  • Use my cheesy taco shells or these wraps for the kids

This makes it a win-win meal for everyone at the dinner table. Here’s my own homemade taco seasoning to make ahead and have on hand whenever you want fajitas or tacos! 

If you need an even quicker recipe that doesn’t include zucchini, these are my sheet pan chicken fajitas will be perfect! Or maybe my chicken taco soup is what you’re feeling like. 

fajita stuffed zucchini-3

Why This Recipe Works for Midlife Health

As the creator of the Midlife Macro Method, I always focus on meals that:

  • Support long-term health
  • Help balance blood sugar
  • Provide enough protein to prevent muscle loss
  • Keep carbs lower without feeling restrictive

This recipe is:

  • High protein (35g per serving!)
  • Moderate fat
  • Lower in carbs (just 7.4g net carbs)

It’s a perfect example of how nutrient-dense whole foods can help you feel satisfied without relying on ultra-processed options.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

These zucchini taco boats are perfect for meal prep.

Store:

  • In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days

Reheat:

  • Oven: best for maintaining texture
  • Microwave: quick and easy

Freeze:

  • You can freeze the chicken mixture separately
  • Fresh zucchini is best made the day of serving

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep everything and store separately, then assemble and bake when ready.

Can I grill instead of bake?

Absolutely. Grill the chicken mixture and zucchini for a smoky fajita flavor.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, this fits perfectly into a keto diet and low carb lifestyle.

How do I reduce carbs even more?

Skip onions or reduce peppers slightly to lower the carb count.

Easy Low Carb Keto Chicken Fajita Stuffed Zucchini

Want Help Putting This Into Action? My Weekly Midlife Macro Meal Plans

If you’re reading this and thinking, “This makes sense… but I don’t want to figure all of this out on my own,” you’re not alone.

That’s exactly why I created my Weekly Midlife Macro Meal Plans.

Because knowing what to do is one thing…actually doing it consistently—without overthinking every meal—is where most women get stuck.

Here’s what my meal plans do for you:

  • Take the guesswork out of hitting your protein goals
  • Keep your meals in a low carb, moderate fat range that actually works in midlife
  • Help you stay in a calorie deficit (without tracking everything obsessively)
  • Give you simple recipes (like these zucchini boats!) that the whole family can enjoy
  • Reduce decision fatigue so you can stay consistent

Each week, you’ll get a full plan designed with the Midlife Macro Method in mind:

  • High protein meals
  • Balanced macros for fat loss
  • Easy swaps for personal preference
  • Practical, real-life recipes (not complicated or time-consuming)

Perfect if you:

  • Feel stuck in a plateau
  • Don’t know if your macros are “right”
  • Are tired of jumping between diets
  • Want structure without restriction

And the best part?

You don’t have to start over every Monday…
you just follow the plan and keep moving forward.

If you’re ready to stop guessing and start seeing results, my weekly meal plans are linked below and updated every Thursday so you’re ready for the week ahead.

Low Carb Keto Chicken Fajita Stuffed Zucchini

Print

Chicken Fajita Stuffed Zucchini

Add all your favorite taco toppings you love when you make some traditional chicken fajitas and stuff that incredible filling into the cooked, scooped out zucchini.
It's perfect for feeding a crowd of guests as well.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 stuffed zucchini boats
Calories 273kcal
Author Brenda Bennett | Sugar-Free Mom

Ingredients

  • 3 large zucchini
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 large sweet peppers ( red, yellow )
  • 1 cup onion chopped
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • optional toppings: sour cream avocado, shredded Mexican cheese, cilantro, salsa

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  • Slice zucchini in half lengthwise then scoop out some of the center to make room for filling. Place scooped out zucchini in a bowl and set aside.
  • Rub oil over zucchini boats and place on a baking sheet.
  • Bake for 20 minutes until fork tender.
  • Slice peppers and onion and place into bowl with scooped out zucchini.
  • Add in the chopped uncooked chicken.
  • Drizzle oil into bowl of chicken and veggies and toss together.
  • Whisk together the seasonings and toss into bowl.
  • Spread veggies and chicken onto another baking sheet.
  • Bake chicken and veggies for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
  • Scoop chicken fajita filling into zucchini boats and add top with shredded cheese if desired. You can return them to the oven for 5 minutes to melt cheese if you like.
  • Squirt some lime juice over filling and add optional toppings if desired.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

Net Carb: 8 g
This recipe was first published in July 2016.
Midlife Macro Approved!

Nutrition

Serving: 1stuffed zucchini boat | Calories: 273kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 71mg | Sodium: 172mg | Potassium: 1018mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 2091IU | Vitamin C: 102mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 2mg

 

The post Easy Low Carb Keto Chicken Fajita Stuffed Zucchini appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Sheet Pan Chocolate Cake

This sugar free low carb keto sheet pan chocolate cake is everything you want in a dessert-rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and easy prep without the sugar or high carbs. Whether you’re following a keto diet, low carb diet, or just looking for a healthier chocolate cake, this recipe delivers incredible results every time.

This sugar free low carb keto sheet pan chocolate cake is everything you want in a dessert-rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and easy prep without the sugar or high carbs.

Why You’ll Love This Keto Chocolate Cake

This recipe is designed to be easy enough for a first time keto baker, but impressive enough to serve guests.

  • Made in a sheet pan for simple baking and easy portion control
  • Uses low carb ingredients like almond flour and coconut flour
  • Naturally gluten-free and sugar-free
  • Rich, moist chocolate cake texture (no dry keto cake here)
  • Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just satisfying a sweet tooth
  • Only 3g net carbs per serving

The combination of sour cream and almond milk creates a tender crumb while keeping the cake from becoming too heavy, a common issue with keto cakes.

Made with simple pantry ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sour cream, this cake creates the perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor and fluffy texture. It’s topped with a creamy keto chocolate frosting that takes it to the next level.

If you’ve ever struggled to find the best keto chocolate cake recipe that doesn’t taste dry or dense-this is it.

TRUFFLE CAKE

To make a chocolate truffle cake, you use the same ingredients you would use to make a chocolate truffle; chocolate, cream and butter. Simply change out the proportions used to make truffles for a larger, more substantial cake that serves 16.

Add a creamy, delicious chocolate frosting to cover and you’ve got a decadent dessert to share with family and friends! 

Minimal effort and absolutely gorgeous to share with everyone! Just a small piece is all you need of this luscious, rich, keto chocolate truffle cake!

What Makes This a “Truffle Cake”?

A traditional chocolate truffle is made from chocolate, cream, and butter. This recipe takes those same rich, indulgent flavors and transforms them into a soft, moist chocolate cake.

Instead of a dense ganache, you get:

  • A light but rich sponge cake
  • A creamy keto chocolate cream cheese frosting
  • A dessert that feels indulgent without being overly heavy

It’s the perfect balance between a flourless chocolate cake recipe and a classic chocolate cake-without the need for regular flour or real sugar.

easy keto mascarpone chocolate frosting over sheet pan chocolate cake

Key Ingredients for the Best Results

Understanding your ingredients will help you get the best texture and flavor every time.

Dry Ingredients

  • Almond flour – Provides structure and keeps the cake moist
  • Coconut flour – Absorbs moisture and prevents a soggy texture (a little goes a long way!)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds deep chocolate flavor
  • Baking powder & baking soda – Help create a light, fluffy cake
  • Pinch of salt – Enhances the chocolate flavor

Wet Ingredients

  • Eggs (separated) – Whipped egg whites give lift and fluffiness
  • Sour cream – Adds moisture and richness
  • Almond milk – Keeps the batter smooth without extra carbs
  • Butter or coconut oil – Adds fat and flavor
  • Vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness without sugar

Sweetener

  • Use a low carb sugar substitute like monk fruit blends
  • Adjust sweetness to your preference (especially if you have a strong sweet tooth)

How to Make a Keto Sheet Pan Chocolate Cake

This method ensures best texture and consistent results.

Step-by-Step Overview

  1. Preheat oven and line your cake pan with parchment paper
  2. Cream egg yolks and sweetener until lighter in color
  3. Add wet ingredients:
    • melted butter
    • almond milk
    • vanilla extract
    • sour cream
  4. In a separate bowl, mix all dry ingredients
  5. In a clean bowl, whip egg whites until fluffy
  6. Combine wet and dry ingredients
  7. Gently fold in egg whites (do not overmix)
  8. Spread evenly into your sheet pan
  9. Bake until center of the cake is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean

Pro Tip: Don’t overbake. Keto cakes firm up as they cool, so pulling it out slightly early keeps it moist.

keto sheet pan chocolate cake slices with thick keto chocolate frosting

HOW TO SWAP KETO SWEETENERS

Swapping sweeteners in my recipes is not hard at all today. I’ve made it even easier with my new sweetener conversion chart! I’ve been creating sugar free recipes for the last 15 years using many different sweeteners.

My conversion chart is written from my vast experience with experimenting with all these sweeteners.

You may see many of these conversion charts online, but they are not all the same and some I’ve seen I greatly disagree with.

You can trust my keto sweetener conversion chart as the most accurate and precise sugar free sweetener conversion chart and the last one you will ever need for all your keto baking. 

Keto Chocolate Frosting

This keto chocolate cream cheese frosting is smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced.

  • Heavy cream creates a light whipped texture
  • Mascarpone or cream cheese adds richness
  • Cocoa powder deepens the chocolate flavor
  • Powdered sweetener keeps it smooth

Spread evenly over the cooled cake for a classic sheet pan dessert look.

close up slice of keto sheet pan chocolate cake with thick chocolate frosting

Helpful Tips for Best Texture

Getting the perfect keto cake texture can be tricky—here’s how to avoid common mistakes:

  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing
  • Don’t skip whipping egg whites if you want a lighter cake
  • Avoid overmixing after adding egg whites
  • Measure coconut flour carefully (too much = dry cake)
  • Let cake fully cool before frosting

Easy Ingredient Swaps

This recipe is flexible and works well with substitutions.

Dairy-Free Option

Nut-Free Option

Sweetener Swaps

This sugar free low carb keto sheet pan chocolate cake is everything you want in a dessert-rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and easy prep without the sugar or high carbs.

Baking Tips for Sheet Pan Cakes

  • Smaller pans create thicker, more cake-like slices
  • Use parchment paper for easy removal
  • Spread batter evenly for consistent baking time
  • half sheet pan will create a thinner cake and bake faster

Storage and Freezing

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
  • Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months
  • Let thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge

This cake actually tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.

If you’ve tried other keto cakes that turned out dry, dense, or disappointing, this recipe is a game changer. The combination of almond flour,  a little coconut flour, sour cream, and cocoa powder creates a truly satisfying moist chocolate cake that rivals any traditional version.

This is one of those recipes that proves you don’t need regular flour or real sugar to make something absolutely delicious.

And the best part? It’s simple enough to make anytime, even if it’s your first time baking a keto cake.

This sugar free low carb keto sheet pan chocolate cake is everything you want in a dessert-rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and easy prep without the sugar or high carbs.

EASY SHEET PAN KETO CHOCOLATE TRUFFLE CAKE

Print

Easy Sheet Pan Chocolate Truffle Cake

All the flavor of one epic keto chocolate cake, simplified into an easy sheet pan version. Using sour cream adds a nice fluffiness to the sponge cake and a mild sharpness that complements the rich cacao. This Easy Chocolate Mascarpone Sheet Pan Truffle Cake is topped with a chocolate mascarpone cream icing that is super creamy and lush.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Servings 16 servings
Calories 195kcal
Author Brenda Bennett/Sugar Free Mom

Ingredients

Cake

Frosting

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350F / 180C / 160 fan. Line a 9" x 6.5" x 1.5" inch pan or (21 x 17.5 x 4cm) baking tray with parchment paper.
  • Add the egg yolks and low-carb sweetener to a mixing bowl. Cream together using an electric whisk for about 2 minutes until paler in color. Add the butter, almond milk, vanilla and sour cream and whisk again until combined.
  • In a clean mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until fluffy. (Note: make sure your whisk paddles are clean.)
  • In a third mixing bowl, mix the dry ingredients together. Add the egg butter mix and quickly whisk or stir to combine. Gently whisk through the egg whites. Don’t over whisk or the egg whites will deflate resulting in a heavier cake.
  • Place cake batter on the sheet pan and place in the oven and bake 30- 35 mins until you can insert and remove a skewer without many crumbs sticking. Don’t over bake as this cake will firm up as it cools.
  • Allow to fully cool.
  • [For Meal Plan Members Only]: please make sure your serving size setting is set for 16 to ensure proper baking time.
  • To make the frosting, place the cream in a clean large mixing bowl and whisk using a hand mixer until almost thick. Just under when it starts to stiffen. Stir through rest of ingredients using a spatula until smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness to taste.
  • Add the mascarpone frosting to the chocolate sheet pan cake using a palate knife or spatula and cut into 16 squares. Option to dust with a little grated dark chocolate if you like.
  • Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezer for 2 months.

Notes

3 g net carbs. 
Nutritional Information includes frosting.
This recipe was first published in April 2021.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 195kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 155mg | Potassium: 60mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 306IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Sheet Pan Chocolate Cake appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Low Carb Alfredo Spaghetti Squash

This easy, low carb keto Alfredo spaghetti squash is a creamy, comforting, low carb pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or even serving the whole family. If you’re following a low-carb diet or keto diet, this recipe gives you all the satisfaction of a traditional chicken Alfredo spaghetti squash, without the heavy carbs.

This easy, low carb keto Alfredo spaghetti squash is a creamy, comforting, low carb pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or even serving the whole family.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS LOW CARB ALFREDO SAUCE DISH

This low carb pasta dish is one of the best methods to enjoy comfort food while staying on track with your goals. Unlike traditional restaurant Alfredo, this homemade version allows you to control ingredients, fat content, and portion sizes.

  • Perfect keto spaghetti squash Alfredo
  • Family-friendly and great for the whole family
  • Naturally gluten free and low in net carbs
  • Can be made with shredded chicken, rotisserie chicken, or kept vegetarian
  • Easily customizable with different proteins or veggies like zucchini noodles or even Brussels sprouts

Whether you’re making this as a complete meal, a healthier option, or a simple side dish, this cheesy goodness delivers a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce paired with tender spaghetti-like strands of roasted squash.

HOW TO COOK SPAGHETTI SQUASH (BEST METHOD)

This is one of the easiest and best methods for cooking a fabulous low carb vegetable like spaghetti squash!

Depending on the size of your squash, baking time will vary, but this foolproof method creates perfectly tender squash strands every time.

These tender spaghetti-like strands are the perfect low carb substitution for traditional pasta like fettuccine noodles.

OVEN METHOD (RECOMMENDED)

PREHEAT your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.

SLICE your whole squash from stem to tail, lengthwise.

DRIZZLE olive oil over each half and rub evenly.

SPRINKLE with sea salt.

FLIP cut side down onto the baking dish.

BAKE:

  • 1 hour for a 2-pound squash
  • 30–45 minutes for smaller squash

TEST FOR DONENESS: Use a fork to gently pull strands. If they don’t separate easily, return to the oven for another 10–15 mins.

This method creates the best texture—not watery, not mushy, just perfectly golden brown edges with tender strands.

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY KETO ALFREDO SAUCE

This rich and creamy Alfredo sauce is what makes this dish truly indulgent. Made with heavy cream, parmesan cheese, butter, and cream cheese, it creates a velvety creamy cheese sauce that coats every strand.

Tips for Perfect Alfredo Sauce:

  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best melting
  • Keep heat at medium heat to avoid curdling
  • Stir continuously for a smooth texture
  • Add a touch of cream cheese for extra thickness if desired

You’ll end up with a rich low carb Alfredo sauce that rivals any restaurant version.

low carb alfredo spaghetti squash

CAN I ADD CHICKEN OR OTHER PROTEIN?

Absolutely! This easily becomes a chicken Alfredo spaghetti squash meal.

Best protein options:

  • Chicken breasts (baked or pan-seared)
  • Rotisserie chicken for convenience
  • Ground turkey or beef
  • Shrimp for a seafood twist

Use about 1 pound of protein to make this a complete meal.

Cut into bite-sized pieces or use shredded chicken and stir into the sauce before combining with the squash.

SPAGHETTI SQUASH BOATS OPTION

Instead of mixing everything in a bowl, you can make spaghetti squash boats:

  • Leave strands in the squash shells
  • Add Alfredo sauce and toppings
  • Broil until bubbly and slightly golden brown

This presentation is great for entertaining and makes portion sizes easy.

easy keto alfredo spaghetti squash

IS SPAGHETTI SQUASH KETO? 

Spaghetti squash is a wonderful alternative for replacing traditional high carb spaghetti in your favorite dishes.

It can most certainly be enjoyed on a ketogenic diet when you are mindful of portion sizes. You can see the nutritional info below.

While it is a higher carb vegetable than something like zucchini, it is still a good option when you want a perfect substitute for spaghetti. 

Spaghetti Squash Nutrition      

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (155g)
  • Calories: 76
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g (Net Carbs: 5.5g)
  • Fiber: 2.5g
  • Protein: 1g

Zucchini Noodles are also another option but they can be much thicker and not as fine and light as using spaghetti squash.

According to the USDA nutrient database, one cup of sliced zucchini contains 19 calories, 1.5 grams of protein, 0 grams of fat, 3.5 grams of carbs, 1 gram of fiber, and 3 grams of sugar. You could use zucchini noodles to make this Alfredo recipe if you prefer.

Other zucchini noodle recipes you might like:

low carb gluten free alfredo spaghetti squash

LOW CARB SWAPS & VARIATIONS

This recipe is incredibly flexible:

Dairy-Free Option

Lower Fat Version

  • Reduce butter slightly, replace some heavy cream with Half & Half
  • Add more chicken broth for balance

Vegetable Swaps

OTHER WAYS TO COOK SPAGHETTI SQUASH

If you want a different way:

Instant Pot Method

Great for saving time!

  • Add 1 cup water
  • Cook on high pressure for 7–10 minutes depending on size
  • Quick release

Microwave Method

Fastest option:

  • Cut squash, remove seeds
  • Microwave cut side down with water for 10–15 mins

Skillet Finish (Highly Recommended)

After roasting, you can toss the strands in a large skillet on medium heat with olive oil to remove excess moisture and enhance flavor.

Low Carb Alfredo Spaghetti Squash

LOW CARB ALFREDO SPAGHETTI SQUASH

Print

Alfredo Spaghetti Squash

Prep Time 1 minute
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings 8 @ 2.6 ounces
Calories 319kcal
Author Brenda Bennett/Sugar-Free Mom

Ingredients

  • 21 ounces spaghetti squash (about a 2 pound squash)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • salt

Alfredo Sauce

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
  • 2 ounces parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Optional toppings:

  • 2 slices bacon, cooked crisp, chopped
  • fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Slice your spaghetti squash lengthwise from stem to tail and scrape out the seeds.
    Place on a parchment lined baking pan. Drizzle a half tablespoon of olive oil onto each half of the squash and rub it all over with your fingers. Sprinkle some sea salt into each half. Flip the squash over ,cut side down, on the pan. Bake for 1 hour.
  • Once out of the oven, let cool until you can handle it. Using a form scrape from the sides down to the center of each half and remove "spaghetti" to a bowl.
    Your shell should be hollow if you scraped as much of the spaghetti as you could. Set aside to make the Alfredo sauce.

Alfredo Sauce

  • Bring 1/4 cup of the butter, the cream and garlic to a boil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and stir in the egg yolk until well incorporated.
  • Stir in the onion powder, salt and pepper. continue to simmer stirring, until the sauce thickens, about 15 minutes.
  • Remove from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, and any optional ingredients if desired.

Assembly

  • Once your sauce is done, toss in the spaghetti squash and stir to combine well. Divide in half and spoon back into the empty squash shells to serve. Top with optional crispy bacon and fresh chopped parsley.
  • Storage: Keep any left overs in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

4 g net carbs per serving. 
This post was first published in 2021.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 319kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 44mg | Sodium: 315mg | Potassium: 71mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 329IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 0.3mg

The post Low Carb Alfredo Spaghetti Squash appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Sugar Free Gluten Free Low Carb Keto Sponge Cake

This Sugar-Free Gluten Free Low Carb Keto Sponge Cake is also nut free with all the traditional flavors and textures of a sponge cake.

This Sugar-Free Gluten Free Low Carb Keto Sponge Cake is also nut free with all the traditional flavors and textures of a sponge cake.

Low Carb Sponge Cake

A sponge cake is basically just a very light and airy cake made with eggs, flour and sugar, but this recipe is low carb and just as delicious as its higher carb cousin!

Traditional sponge cakes rely on wheat flour and sugar to create that soft structure, but this version swaps those out for low carb, gluten-free ingredients while still giving you that same fluffy texture.

This Low Carb Cake is a masterpiece made grain free, gluten free, nut free and just around 100 calories per slice with less than 1 gram of carbs!

If you’ve been searching for a sugar-free low carb sponge cake that actually tastes like the real thing, this is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Unlike many almond flour cakes or coconut flour cake recipes that can feel heavy or dense, this sponge cake stays light because of how the eggs are handled.

The structure comes from properly whipped egg whites and gently folded batter, which is key for achieving that airy keto Victoria sponge cake texture.

From Failed Angel Food to Perfect Cake

Funny thing is, making this sponge cake was never my intention. I was trying to make an angel food cake. And after 4 attempts of it deflating I just gave up and adapted my recipe to include yolks and turn a failed recipe into a winning one!

When working with egg whites, especially when trying to achieve stiff peaks, small details matter—like making sure your bowl is completely clean and your egg whites are at room temperature. These little things can make a big difference in whether your cake rises or falls.

Don’t you love when the unexpected happens and turns out better than you would have thought or imagined?

Yep. Some recipes are like that for me. This one is beyond good.

Better than I would have expected considering it’s made without grains, gluten, or artificial sweeteners.

keto sponge cake

Why This Keto Sponge Cake Recipe Works

I want to note that although the angel food cake had 4 failing attempts, the family still ate it all up. The taste was incredible. The height was another story. But I will attempt again!

So with that I set my heart on the sponge cake and of course it came easily and without any angst on my part. No height needed in this beauty. It is perfect as is. A soft, light, and airy sponge cake.

What makes this one of the best keto sponge cake recipes is the balance of ingredients:

  • A low carb sweetener keeps it sugar-free without compromising taste
  • Egg whites whipped to stiff peaks create lift
  • Egg yolks provide richness and structure
  • Coconut flour keeps it low carb while absorbing moisture
  • Whey protein powder helps stabilize the cake batter
low carb gluten free sponge cake

Texture, Storage & Next Day Results

After completely cooling I added some sugar-free whipped cream and fresh berries. Since there were leftovers after each of my 3 kids and hubby and I had a piece, I needed to refrigerate it. If I hadn’t added the topping I probably could have left it out on the counter.

Guess what? It tasted even better the next day.

In fact these last two pics are straight from the fridge. The chilling time made it a bit more dense but the spongey texture was still just perfect.

This makes it a great option if you want to prepare a large cake ahead of time for gatherings, holidays, or even something like Mother’s Day. It also works beautifully as a base layer cake with a cream cheese frosting or whipped cream layered between.

Tips for Success (Don’t Skip These!)

If this is your first time making a sponge cake, don’t worry—just follow these simple tips:

First, make sure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks. This means when you lift the beaters, the peaks hold their shape and don’t collapse. This step is crucial for a light and airy result.

Second, when combining wet ingredients and dry ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing will deflate the batter and result in a dense cake instead of a fluffy one.

Third, use a large mixing bowl and fold slowly. Folding instead of stirring helps keep air in the batter.

Finally, line your pan with parchment paper if needed, especially if you’re not using a springform pan, to ensure easy removal.

keto sponge cake

Ingredient Notes & Easy Swaps

This recipe uses simple low carb pantry staples, but here are a few helpful notes:

  • Coconut flour cannot be swapped for almond meal or wheat flour—it absorbs much more liquid
  • Whey protein powder helps create structure; skipping it may change the texture
  • You can use plain or vanilla protein powder depending on what you have
  • Use your favorite low carb sweetener if you don’t have Swerve
  • Almond milk or heavy cream are not needed in this recipe, which helps keep it light

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can swap the butter for coconut oil, though it may slightly change the flavor.

Serving Ideas

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can easily elevate it:

  • Top with fresh berries and whipped cream
  • Add a light glaze with lemon juice and sweetener drizzled over the top of the cake
  • Layer it with cream cheese frosting for a birthday-style cake
  • Serve with a side of sugar-free chocolate sauce

It’s one of those perfect cake recipes that works for so many occasions.

sugar free sponge cake

Tools to Make Keto Sponge Cake

Stand Mixer- Helps whip egg whites to perfect stiff peaks in no time at all! 

Electric Hand Mixer– If you don’t want to spend the money on the stand mixer, this is the next best thing to whipping up egg whites in no time!

8 inch Spring Form Cake Pan-Springform pans are not only helpful for this cake recipe and easier removal of it than using regular cake pans, but it works well for any low carb cake recipe like my Low Carb Cheesecake and my Carrot Cake and just about any other keto recipes and dessert you want to make. 

It’s an easy cake, don’t let egg white whipping scare you. This comes together without a problem and the batter is light enough to fold the egg whites into.

Wonderful idea for Mother’s Day I think!

sugar free sponge cake

Brenda’s Notes:

This Sugar-Free Gluten Free Low Carb Keto Sponge Cake is also nut free with all the traditional flavors and textures of a sponge cake.

Sugar-Free Keto Low Carb Sponge Cake

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Sugar-Free Low Carb Sponge Cake

Course Dessert
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 107kcal
Author Brenda Bennett | Sugar Free Mom

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Grease an 8 inch spring form pan and preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Place your egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer and mix until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
  • Place your yolks in another bowl and whisk with vanilla extract, liquid stevia and lemon zest.
  • In another bowl whisk together the remaining dry ingredients.
  • Combine the yolks and dry ingredients together until smooth.
  • In small portions a little at a time, fold the egg whites into the yolk and flour mixture, be careful not to over mix and deflate your egg whites.
  • Drizzle the melted, cooled butter on the side of the bowl to slowly fold it into the batter.
  • Pour batter into pan and bake 30 minutes or until golden on top and a toothpick in center comes out clean.
  • Allow to cool completely before removing and adding optional toppings.
  • Keep refrigerated.

Notes

Net Carbs: 0.9g
This recipe was first published in April 2016 and updated with video in May 2020.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 107kcal | Carbohydrates: 1.9g | Protein: 7.3g | Fat: 7.1g | Saturated Fat: 2.9g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 133mg | Fiber: 1g

 

The post Sugar Free Gluten Free Low Carb Keto Sponge Cake appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Low Carb Keto Thai Chicken Cabbage Rolls Recipe

This delicious Keto Thai Chicken Cabbage Rolls recipe has a spicy and tangy dressing all wrapped up in a crispy cabbage, making it a quick and easy keto meal any night of the week!

Low Carb Keto Thai Chicken Cabbage Rolls Recipe

EASY CABBAGE ROLLS

Traditional cabbage rolls tend to take a lot of time to make and often use ground meat, white rice, tomato sauce and spices, typically baked in a baking dish for quite a while.

These cabbage rolls are a little twist and my take on easier cabbage rolls with a low carb, ketogenic diet approach.

These keto cabbage rolls skip the rice and instead keep things light, fresh, and full of flavor using a Thai-inspired filling. If you’ve ever made traditional cabbage rolls, you’ll love how much quicker and simpler this cooking process is! Feel free to use cauliflower rice if you prefer!

These Keto Thai Crispy Cabbage Rolls make the tastiest dinner or eat only 1 roll for a lunch meal to cut your carbs in half. They can be eaten raw or cooked so the cabbage leaves get a bit crispy and the filling is warm.

The filling is packed with Thai flavors without any preservatives and if you don’t have precooked leftover chicken just roast up some chicken breasts or thighs and use them instead.

Choosing the Best Cabbage Leaves

Green cabbage works best for this cabbage roll recipe because of its sturdy outer leaves, but you can also use inner leaves if they are large enough to roll.

To make rolling easier:

  • Use the outer leaves of a whole head of cabbage
  • Soften leaves in boiling water for 1–2 minutes
  • Transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking
  • Pat dry with a paper towel before filling

You can also use:

  • Swiss chard (as written)
  • Napa cabbage (more tender, great for quick rolls)
  • Kale or cavolo nero (remove thick stems)
keto thai cabbage rolls

CARB COUNT  IN SWISS CHARD VERSUS CABBAGE 

Just 1 cup (175 grams) of cooked Swiss chard packs (3): Calories: 35. Protein: 3.3 grams. Carbs: 7 grams.

Since I chose to use chard for the rolls, instead of cabbage my carb count in the nutrition info below is a bit higher than if you choose to use cabbage leaves for the rolls. I love the crispy chard leaves, but cabbage leaves will be just as delicious!

Cooked cabbage (1 cup) contains 3.6g of carbs, 1.3g of protein, 0.1g of fat, and 23 calories. We use 1 cup for the filling but this is divided by 4 servings for the recipe. Each serving is 3 rolls which is a wonderful amount for a dinner meal.

Low Carb Keto Thai Chicken Cabbage Rolls Recipe

SAVE TIME WITH COOKED ROTISSERIE CHICKEN

You will save a lot of time if you simply buy an already cooked rotisserie chicken. This makes this keto meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

But if you don’t have precooked chicken, no problem! Simply season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and a drizzle of olive oil and place chicken breasts in the oven at 350 degrees F. Bake for about 30 minutes or until cooked through. Shred the meat between two forks.

You can also swap in:

  • Leftover grilled chicken or even shrimp
  • Ground chicken (cook first)
  • Ground turkey
  • Ground pork or ground beef for a richer flavor
Low Carb Keto Thai Chicken Cabbage Rolls Recipe

CAN I SWAP THE ALMONDS?

Yes, if you have an allergy to tree nuts and want to swap the almond butter in the dressing you certainly can.

I’d suggest this sugar free peanut butter as a good swap. If you have a peanut allergy then I would say try sunflower seed butter or even tahini which is sesame butter. 

You can also swap the almonds in the salad ingredients for another nut or even sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds or sesame seeds for a little bit of crunch.

SAUCE AND FLAVOR SWAPS

This Thai-inspired dressing is what gives these cabbage rolls their bold flavor, but you can easily adjust based on what you have:

  • Add fish sauce for deeper umami flavor
  • Use rice vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar
  • Adjust sriracha for spice level
  • Add garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic
  • Fresh ginger adds the best flavor, but ground ginger works in a pinch

OTHER COOKING METHODS (NOT JUST OVEN)

These low carb cabbage rolls are very versatile and can be cooked in different ways depending on what works best for you:

Oven (as written):

Bake at medium-high heat (350°F) until slightly crispy.

Air Fryer:

  • Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes
  • Creates extra crispy cabbage leaves

Stovetop (Skillet):

  • Heat a large pan with olive oil
  • Place rolls seam side down
  • Cook until lightly browned on all sides

Instant Pot (Steaming method):

  • Place rolls in a baking dish or on a trivet
  • Add 1 cup water
  • Steam for 3–4 minutes
  • Great for softer cabbage rolls

Meal Prep Option:

Turn this into a “crack slaw” style dish by skipping the rolls and sautéing everything together in a large pot or skillet.

Low Carb Keto Thai Chicken Cabbage Rolls

MAKE IT A FREEZER-FRIENDLY CASSEROLE

Want to skip rolling completely?

Turn this into a freezer-friendly casserole:

  • Layer cabbage, filling, and sauce in a baking dish
  • Cover with aluminum foil
  • Bake until heated through

This is a great option for feeding the whole family or making a double batch for later.

Best to cook and enjoy fresh when you are ready to eat, but this can be prepared the day before and placed in the oven when ready for your meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

For best results:

  • Keep filling separate from leaves if prepping ahead
  • Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture

EXTRA TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS

  • Use large cabbage leaves for easier rolling
  • Don’t overfill (about 1/4 cup filling works best)
  • Always place seam side down when baking
  • Pat leaves dry after boiling water step to prevent soggy rolls
  • Add a drizzle of sesame oil before serving for extra flavor

HOW TO STORE THAI CHICKEN CABBAGE ROLLS

Best to cook and enjoy fresh when you are ready to eat, but this can be prepared the day before and placed in the oven when ready for your meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

For best results:

  • Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture
  • Keep filling separate from leaves if prepping ahead
  • Store left overs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. 

Keto Thai Chicken Crispy Cabbage Roll Recipe

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Keto Thai Chicken Crispy Cabbage Rolls

These Keto Thai Crispy Cabbage rolls make the tastiest low-carb lunch or dinner. They can be eaten raw or cooked so the cabbage leaves get a bit crispy and the filling is warm.
The filling is packed with Thai flavors without any preservatives and you can use precooked leftover chicken or just roast up some chicken breasts or thighs and use these instead.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 @ 3 rolls
Calories 279kcal
Author Brenda Bennett/Sugar Free Mom

Ingredients

Thai Chicken Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups chicken cooked, shredded (or 280g)
  • 1 cup white cabbage shredded (or 90g)
  • 1 carrot grated (or 60g)
  • 1/3 cup cilantro fresh, chopped (or 20g)
  • 1/4 cup almonds toasted, chopped (or 36g) Optional
  • 1/4 cup green onions chopped (or 25g)
  • 1/2 red pepper sliced (or 82g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
  • 10 ounces chard leaves, stems discarded (or cabbage leaves of choice) (or 280g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing

Dressing

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350F / 180C / 160 fan.

Dressing

  • Place all the dressing ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk with a hand balloon whisk to combine. Adjust consistency with a touch of water if you like it a bit thinner.

Thai Chicken Salad

  • Toss the chicken salad ingredients with the dressing (except chard leaves and olive oil).
  • Place the chard or cabbage leaves in mixing bowl and cover with boiling water. Rest for 45 seconds – 1 minute to soften. Remove and place on a paper towel. Pat dry.
  • Add approx 1/4 cup of filling to each large leaf. If your leaves are smaller you can put a couple of leaves together. Tuck in the sides around the filling then roll up.
  • Place the stuffed leaves (folded side on the bottom) on a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper and brush with a little olive oil. Option to enjoy raw or for more of a crispy warm roll, bake in the oven for about 15 minutes until slightly crisp.

Recipe Notes

  • If you're using optional almonds and they aren’t roasted simply roast in the oven first for about 5 – 8 minutes. Allow to cool and then chop before adding to the salad filling.
  • If you don’t have precooked chicken. Simply season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and a drizzle of olive oil and place chicken breasts in the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until cooked through. Shred the meat between two forks.
  • I used chard leaves for this recipe, but feel free to substitute with any cabbage leaf, or kale if you prefer. Just chop off the stalks as these are harder to roll. Something with a nice big leaf is best.

Storage

  • Airtight container in the fridge for 1 day. Best to cook and enjoy when ready to eat but can be prepared the day before and placed in the oven when ready to eat.

Notes

Net Carbs: 8 g
If you wanted to add cauliflower rice to the filling ingredients you could certainly do that. 
This recipe was first published in may 2021.

Nutrition

Serving: 1@ 3 rolls | Calories: 279kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 606mg | Potassium: 497mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 7135IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Low Carb Keto Thai Chicken Cabbage Rolls Recipe appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Dairy Free Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Coconut Macaroons

These easy delicious Sugar Free Keto Low Carb Coconut Macaroons are Dairy Free, Gluten Free and super easy to make! Just 2 grams of net carbs and perfect for anyone on a keto diet, low carb diet or just looking to reduce sugar intake!

These easy delicious Sugar Free Keto Low Carb Coconut Macaroons are Dairy Free, Gluten Free and super easy to make!

Low Carb Coconut Macaroons

If you’re a fan of coconut, these little cookies will be right up your alley! Coconut macaroons are deliciously light keto cookies made with only a few ingredients. The best part of course, they are sugar free!

Adding a little melted unsweetened chocolate chips drizzled over the top makes these the perfect little non guilty pleasure, but totally optional!

Using an ice cream scoop will ensure the perfect little size for your cookie batter! Once completely cooled on a wire rack the cookies can be coated with melted, unsweetened carob chips or sugar free chocolate chips, like the brand Lily’s.

Place a baking pan underneath the rack to catch all the yummy drippings.

low carb keto coconut macaroons

WHAT MAKES THESE KETO MACAROONS SPECIAL

These sugar-free macaroons are:

  • Dairy Free
  • Gluten Free
  • Low Carb
  • Keto Friendly
  • Made with simple, real ingredients

Each cookie has:

  • A soft, chewy center with lightly crisp edges
  • Just 1 g net carbs- all nutritional information is on recipe card at bottom of page
  • A naturally sweet coconut flavor

Macaroons versus Macarons

Macaroons (Mac-a ROON) and macarons (Mac-a- ROHN) are two very different types of cookies.

A macaroon is a chewy coconut based, mounded type of cookie often dipped in chocolate, while a macaron has two almond based wafers that are filled with ganache or jam.

I love both types of cookies, but haven’t yet tackled a keto low carb version of a macaron. So this recipe is my low carb version of a Macaroon.

These easy delicious Sugar Free Keto Low Carb Coconut Macaroons are Dairy Free, Gluten Free and super easy to make!

Coconut Butter vs Coconut Oil (Do Not Swap!)

One of the most common questions I get on this recipe is whether you can swap coconut oil for coconut butter. The short answer is no—they are not the same and should not be substituted.

Coconut butter is made from the whole coconut flesh that has been pureed into a thick, creamy consistency. It contains both the fat and fiber of the coconut, which makes it perfect for binding ingredients together in recipes like these chewy coconut macaroons.

Coconut oil, on the other hand, is just the extracted fat from coconut. It is liquid when melted and does not contain any fiber or solids.

Why coconut butter is essential in this recipe:

  • Helps create that soft, chewy texture
  • Acts as a binding agent to hold the macaroons together
  • Adds natural coconut flavor and slight sweetness

What happens if you use coconut oil instead:

  • The mixture will be too loose or too greasy
  • Macaroons may spread instead of holding their shape
  • Final texture will be crumbly or fall apart

 If your mixture feels dry, the solution is to add more coconut butter, not coconut oil. 

Tip:

If your coconut butter is very firm, gently warm it until soft and pourable before adding it to the batter.

sugar free keto coconut macaroons

TIPS FOR PERFECT CHEWY COCONUT MACAROONS

These simple tips will help you get that perfect chewy texture every time:

  • If mixture feels dry: Add 1 tablespoon melted coconut butter
  • Use room temperature egg whites for better volume
  • Beat egg whites until frothy or soft peaks, not dry stiff peaks
  • Don’t overmix once coconut is added
  • Always pack the mixture firmly when scooping

SCOOPING TIP (THIS HELPS A LOT)

Using a large cookie scoop is helpful for even sizing, but don’t rely on it to release perfectly as these have a delicate consistency.

For best results:

  • Scoop mixture
  • Press firmly into scoop
  • Use your fingers or butter knife to gently release and shape

This ensures your keto macaroons hold their classic mound shape.

BEST TYPE OF COCONUT TO USE

For this keto coconut macaroon recipe, the best choice is:

If using flakes, pulse briefly in a food processor for better texture.

CHOCOLATE DRIZZLE OPTIONS

You can keep these macaroons simple or dress them up!

Try:

Optional toppings:

keto dairy free coconut macaroons

SWEETENER SWAPS

If you don’t have coconut liquid stevia:

You can use another sweetener of choice like:

Liquid sweeteners help keep these soft and chewy.

OPTIONAL VARIATIONS

Want to switch things up?

STORAGE TIPS

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
  • Refrigerate for up to 1 week
  • Freeze for up to 2 months

More Low Carb Recipes you might like:

Dairy Free Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Coconut Macaroons

Keto Coconut Macaroons

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Sugar Free Dairy Free Low Carb Keto Coconut Macaroons

These easy delicious Sugar Free Keto Low Carb Coconut Macaroons are Dairy Free, Gluten Free and super easy to make! Just 1 grams of net carbs and perfect for anyone on a keto diet, low carb diet or just looking to reduce sugar intake!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 15 cookies
Calories 136kcal
Author Brenda Bennett |Sugar-Free Mom

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Place the egg whites in a stand mixer or a large bowl and use an electric mixer with the cream of tartar and blend until frothy. Set aside.
  • Place the coconut butter in a microwavable bowl and microwave 1 minute until melted. Set aside to cool.
  • Add in the salt, stevia, vanilla extract, and shredded coconut into the stand mixer and blend until just combined. Pour in the melted coconut butter and blend again.
  • Using a large cookie scoop, scoop coconut mixture and pat down into the scoop to pack it in well. Release these onto the baking sheet pan, spacing each macaroon about one inch apart from each other. 
  • Bake 20-25 minutes until lightly golden. Cool 5 minutes then transfer to wire rack. Once completely cooled, you can melt the optional chocolate chips and drizzle over each macaroon. Top with optional toasted large coconut flakes if desired. 

Video

Notes

Net Carbs: 2 g
This recipe was first published in May 2013 and updated with new pictures and video in June 2019.
If you don’t have coconut liquid stevia, you can use vanilla stevia or plain stevia.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 136kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Sodium: 59mg | Potassium: 101mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg

 

The post Dairy Free Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Coconut Macaroons appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Easy Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Raspberry Clafoutis

This easy sugar-free, keto raspberry clafoutis is a beautiful, delicious low carb dessert to make for family and friends using any seasonal summer fruit you like!

This easy sugar-free, keto raspberry clafoutis is a beautiful, delicious low carb dessert to make for family and friends using any seasonal summer fruit you like!

Keto Clafoutis

The ultimate spring meets summer dessert! This Easy Keto Low Carb Clafoutis is made in a blender to make it super simple and quick to make.

It’s so comforting, creamy and bursting with fresh berries. At just 3 grams of net carbs per serving it’s a comforting keto sweet treat that won’t send your blood sugar levels soaring! Perfect for those on a ketogenic diet!

WHAT IS A CLAFOUTIS?

Clafoutis is a baked traditional French dessert that is very simple to make and is elegant to serve to guests any night of the week. It’s a cross between a custard and a flan.

Traditional clafoutis uses regular flour and fresh cherries as the fruit, but other fresh fruit, like fresh raspberries, wild blueberries, fresh blackberries and even peaches would work nicely. 

The flan-like batter is essentially made with eggs and heavy cream and could be enjoyed for breakfast or dessert. It whips up so easily in the blender and then you just pour batter into your shallow dish to bake, you will wonder why you’ve never attempted this fantastic recipe before!

keto clafoutis

DO YOU EAT CLAFOUTIS COLD? 

You can eat this sugar free clafoutis cold topped with some delicious keto yogurt or sugar free whipped cream and more berries if you like. Typically it is a dessert that is served lukewarm.

You could make this ahead of guests coming over and leave out of the oven on the counter for about 15-20 minutes to cool slightly.

My preference is cold since that’s how I enjoy custard type desserts. This keto clafoutis will firm up a bit once refrigerated. I say serve it the way you want, warm or cold, it’s absolutely delicious either way!

low carb keto raspberry clafoutis

LOW CARB FRUIT OPTIONS FOR CLAFOUTIS

While raspberries are one of the best keto-friendly fruits, you can easily customize this recipe with other low carb fruits:

  • Blackberries
  • Strawberries (sliced)
  • Blueberries (in moderation)
  • Chopped peaches (for a slightly higher carb option)

Keeping fruit portions moderate helps maintain the low carb and keto-friendly macros, especially if you’re following a ketogenic or midlife macro approach.

HOW TO MAKE CLAFOUTIS

You can whip this dessert up in no time at all. Just 5 minutes to prep and 25 to bake!

  • Start by preheating the oven to 375 degrees F.
  • Grease a 9-inch gratin dish or a 10-inch flan dish or ceramic pie dish with butter.
  • Add all the batter ingredients to a blender, starting with the wet and blend until smooth. Don’t over blend.
  • Scatter fruit, about half  of the raspberries into the pie plate. Pour the batter over the berries and then top with the rest of the berries pressing them into the batter.
  • Bake for about 25 minutes until almost set, but the clafoutis has a slight jiggle in the middle. Option to bake for 5 more minutes if you like a firmer, totally set clafoutis. I like mine with a slight softer custard feel in the middle. It also firms up as it cools so try not to over cook.
  • Serve with a dusting of powdered sweetener and/or  serve with sugar free whipped cream, Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt.
easy blender keto raspberry clafoutis

TIPS FOR THE BEST KETO RASPBERRY CLAFOUTIS

To make sure your sugar free clafoutis turns out perfectly every time, here are a few simple tips:

  • Use fresh or frozen raspberries: Fresh raspberries hold their shape best, but frozen can work—just don’t thaw them first or they may release too much moisture.
  • Don’t over blend the batter: Over blending can incorporate too much air and affect the custard texture.
  • Watch the center: The key to a perfect clafoutis is removing it when the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.
  • Use a shallow dish: A wide, shallow baking dish helps the custard cook evenly and gives you that classic clafoutis texture.
  • Let it rest before serving: Even if you prefer it warm, letting it sit for 10–15 minutes helps it firm up and slice more cleanly.

TOOLS NEEDED TO MAKE KETO CLAFOUTIS

Just two kitchen gadgets needed for this easy comforting keto treat!

  1. Ceramic 10 inch pie dish A ceramic custard or flan pie dish or tart pan will hold its heat better than a metal pan. You could also use a glass pie dish or even a cast iron skillet though I have not tested this recipe using either so the baking time might vary. 
  2. High powered blender will get the job done well and quickly. 
low carb keto clafoutis

WHAT IS THE TEXTURE OF A CLAFOUTIS? 

The texture if this sugar free clafoutis is a cross between a custard and a flan. If you refrigerate it rather then eat it lukewarm, it will become firmer and more flan like. If you eat it warm right out of the oven, it will be more custard like.

If you like a soft center, do not over bake and take it out of the oven when the center is still jiggly. If you want a firmer texture, bake an additional 5 minutes and allow to cool then refrigerate for a couple of hours or overnight. 

SWAPS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

This easy keto clafoutis is very versatile and can be adapted based on what you have on hand:

  • Dairy-Free Option: Use full-fat canned coconut milk instead of heavy cream and coconut oil instead of butter.
  • Nut-Free Option: Swap almond flour for coconut flour (as listed in the recipe), but note coconut flour absorbs more liquid use only 1/4 cup.
  • Sweetener Options: Monk fruit allulose blend gives the best texture, but you can use powdered erythritol or allulose alone.
  • Flavor Variations: Add almond extract instead of vanilla, or a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This clafoutis is perfect for making ahead. Store in the fridge and serve cold or gently reheat.

Why is my clafoutis watery?

Too much moisture from fruit (especially frozen) or underbaking can cause this. Make sure to bake until just set and avoid thawed frozen fruit.

Can I freeze clafoutis?

Freezing is not recommended as it changes the custard texture.

This easy sugar-free, keto raspberry clafoutis is a beautiful, delicious low carb dessert to make for family and friends using any seasonal summer fruit you like!

HOW TO STORE CLAFOUTIS

If you do have any left overs, which is highly unlikely, but if you do, you will need to cover the pie pan with parchment or plastic wrap and refrigerate.

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I do not recommend freezing this. You can reheat in a 300 degree F oven until warm.

This delicious, now keto, baked French dessert is a great recipe for curbing your sweet tooth!

EASY SUGAR FREE KETO CLAFOUTIS 

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Easy Keto Blender Raspberry Clafoutis

The ultimate spring meets summer dessert! This Easy Keto Raspberry Clafoutis is made in a blender to make it super simple and quick to make.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 serving
Calories 315kcal
Author Brenda Bennett/Sugar Free Mom

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon butter to grease pan or coconut oil
  • 1 cup raspberries fresh (or 150g)

Batter

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375F / 190C /170 fan.
  • Grease a 24 cm flan dish or a 10 inch diameter pie dish with butter.
  • Add all the batter ingredients to a blender, starting with the wet and blend until smooth. Don’t over blend.
  • Spread 2/3 of the raspberries on the base. Pour over the batter and then top with the rest of the berries pressing them into the batter.
  • Bake for about 25 minutes until almost set but the clafoutis has a slight jiggle in the middle. Option to bake for 5 more minutes if you like a firmer, totally set clafoutis. I like mine with a slight softer custard feel in the middle. It also firms up as it cools so try not to over cook.
  • Option to dust on powdered sweetener and serve with whipped cream, Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt.
  • Storage: In the fridge for up to 3 days.

Video

Notes

 3 g Net Carbs
This recipe was first published in June 2021.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 315kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 115mg | Sodium: 112mg | Potassium: 118mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 396IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Easy Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Raspberry Clafoutis appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

No-Bake Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Lemon Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for the best no-bake lemon dessert that’s creamy, refreshing, and fits your low-carb, keto lifestyle, these No-Bake Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Lemon Cheesecake Bars are going to become a favorite. Just 4g net carbs!

Sugar Free Low Carb Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Keto Lemon Cheesecake Bars

This recipe has been completely updated from my original version to reflect how I bake and create recipes today—simpler ingredients, better texture, and a more reliable method for that perfect smooth cheesecake layer every time.

These bars are:

  • Sugar free
  • Low carb and keto-friendly
  • Grain free and gluten free
  • Nut-free option using coconut flour
  • Made with real, simple ingredients

And best of all—this is an easy no bake recipe that comes together quickly with minimal effort.

Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Lemon Cheesecake Bars

The Perfect Low-Carb Lemon Dessert

There’s something about fresh lemon desserts that just feels light, bright, and satisfying—especially when you want something sweet without feeling weighed down.

Unlike traditional cheesecakes that require a water bath, baking time, and careful monitoring, this no-bake cheesecake skips all of that while still giving you that rich, creamy texture you love with a smooth lemon bar layer and sweet shortbread crust made with shredded coconut.

The combination of:

  • fresh lemon juice
  • cream cheese
  • heavy cream
  • and a touch of gelatin

creates a stable, silky smooth cheesecake filling that slices beautifully and holds its shape.

Paired with a lightly sweet coconut flour crust, every bite has that perfect balance of creamy texture and soft crumble.

low carb keto lemon cheesecake bars

Why This Updated Recipe Works Better

This isn’t just a simple ingredient swap—this updated version fixes common issues people run into with no-bake cheesecakes.

1. No Gritty Texture

Using monk fruit allulose confectioners sweetener instead of older blends that are a granular sweetener or made with erythritol, like Swerve, gives you a much smoother result. No cooling effect, no graininess—just a clean, sweet flavor.

2. Improved Lemon Flavor

Increasing the lemon juice to ¾ cup fresh lemon juice gives these bars that bold, citrusy flavor without overpowering the cheesecake base.


3. Better Structure with Gelatin

Using 2 teaspoons gelatin ensures the bars set properly while still keeping that soft, creamy texture.

4. Updated Mixing Method

Blending the cream cheese first until smooth, then whipping in the heavy cream before adding the lemon mixture creates a light, airy filling instead of a dense one.

keto lemon cheesecake bars

Helpful Swaps & Variations

Sweetener Options

Dairy-Free Option

  • Use dairy-free cream cheese
  • Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream

Nut-Free & Allergy Friendly

  • This recipe already uses coconut flour instead of almond flour, making it ideal for those with tree nut allergies

Texture Tips for Success

  • Always start with softened cream cheese
  • Blend thoroughly before adding liquids
  • Let gelatin cool slightly before mixing in
  • Use powdered sweetener for the smoothest result

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled will work in a pinch.

Why is my cheesecake not setting?

This usually happens if:

  • The gelatin wasn’t fully dissolved
  • The mixture was too hot or too cold when combined
  • Not enough chill time

Can I freeze these?

Yes! These freeze beautifully. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely—this is actually a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

Low Carb Keto Lemon Cheesecake Bars

More Lemon Desserts You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of lemon desserts, here are a few more favorites:

lemon cheesecake bars5 (1 of 1)

Storage Tips

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
  • For longer storage, freeze individual bars and thaw as needed
  • Keep chilled until ready to serve to maintain structure
No Bake Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Other NO BAKE Recipes You Might Enjoy:

Print

Sugar Free No Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars

These No-Bake Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Lemon Cheesecake Bars are everything you want in a dessert—simple, refreshing, creamy, and satisfying. They’re proof that you don’t need added sugar or complicated steps to create something truly delicious.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 18 bars
Calories 253kcal
Author Brenda Bennett | Sugar Free Mom

Ingredients

Crust

Cheesecake

  • 3/4 cup lemon juice about 3-4 large fresh lemons
  • 2 tsp gelatin
  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons lemon liquid stevia

Instructions

  • Place the crust ingredients into a food processor and blend until combined.
  • Spread into a 9 by 13 pan to make an even layer on the bottom of the baking dish.
  • In a small saucepan, add the fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle gelatin over the top and allow it to bloom for a minute. Gently heat, stirring until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before adding to the filling.
  • Stir the mixture until dissolved and remove from heat to cool for 10 minutes.
  • Beat the cream cheese first until completely smooth into a stand mixer.
  • Add heavy cream and whip until light and fluffy.
  • Slowly add the cooled gelatin into the stand mixture and blend on low for just a minute to combine. Add salt and lemon liquid stevia and mix until smooth.
  • Pour this evenly over the crust layer.
  • Add some grated lemon zest over the top of desired.
  • Refrigerate uncovered for 2-3 hours to set.
  • Cut into 18 squares and enjoy!
  • Keep refrigerated.

Video

Notes

4 g net carbs
This recipe was first published in March 2015. See the video tutorial on Pinterest here. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 253kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 39mg | Sodium: 198mg | Potassium: 87mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 497IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 0.3mg

 

The post No-Bake Sugar Free Low Carb Keto Lemon Cheesecake Bars appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Easy Crispy Low Carb Keto Popcorn Chicken Recipe

If you’ve been craving crispy popcorn chicken but want to stay on your keto diet or low carb diet, this Keto Popcorn Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite. No keto flours like almond flour, or coconut flour, just chicken, eggs, seasonings and some cheese. Just 2 grams of carbs!

If you’ve been craving crispy popcorn chicken but want to stay on your keto diet or low carb diet, this Keto Popcorn Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite.

Keto Popcorn Chicken

I made this on a weekend when my daughter asked for small bite size pieces of chicken like from drive-thru for popcorn chicken. I was happy to experiment!

I tested this recipe multiple times to get the texture just right. I wanted true bite-sized nuggets with a crispy coating — not flat patties, not soggy bottoms, and definitely not greasy fried chicken cooked in unhealthy oils.

After tweaking exact measurements, adjusting the egg mixture, and testing both the air fryer basket and a prepared baking sheet in the oven, I finally nailed it.

And the best part?

My daughter and my future son-in-law absolutely loved them. That’s always my final test.

keto popcorn chicken

Why This Is the Best Keto Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Unlike traditional breaded chicken or deep-fried chicken, this recipe:

  • Uses no bread crumbs
  • Keeps net carbs extremely low and fat moderate, not high like classic keto recipes
  • Avoids unhealthy oils
  • Uses crushed pork rinds (pork panko) for the crispy coating
  • Works in both high heat oven baking and the air fryer

This is a true copycat recipe for crispy popcorn chicken, but without the extra carbs. All nutritional information is on the printable recipe card at the bottom of this page.

easy crispy keto popcorn chicken

My Testing Experience (What Actually Worked)

When I first made these, I used a different canned chicken that my hubby had brought it and realized after the fact it contained modified food starch. Note to self, always check ingredients first.

I truly thought it was just chicken, lesson learned. Anyway, that added moisture and caused the chicken pieces to flatten. They were tasty but didn’t hold their shape.

Once I switched to organic canned chicken and increased the grated parmesan cheese, everything changed.

Here’s what made the difference:

  • Pressing the chicken with a paper towel to remove excess moisture
  • Increasing the dry ingredients (especially parmesan cheese)
  • Using exact measurements for the egg mixture
  • Keeping the pieces small (½ tablespoon size)
  • Baking at high heat

The oven actually made them crispier than the air fryer.

easy low carb popcorn chicken

Storage & Meal Prepping

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

  • Oven at high heat for 5–7 minutes
  • Air fryer 3–4 minutes

These make a perfect quick snack, easy side dish, or addition to keto meals.

They’re also fantastic for movie nights when you want something crispy without the extra carbs.

Each serving keeps net carbs extremely low while delivering solid protein and satisfying fat.

This is not just another great recipe -it’s one that fits a low carb lifestyle and supports balanced macros without using unhealthy oils or bread crumbs.

It proves you can enjoy crispy, breaded chicken on a midlife macro low carb diet or keto diet without sacrificing flavor.

keto popcorn chicken recipe

Dipping Sauce Ideas

These are delicious with:

My family especially loved them with honey mustard.

If you’ve been craving crispy popcorn chicken but want to stay on your keto diet or low carb diet, this Keto Popcorn Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite.

How Many Pieces This Recipe Makes

This recipe was tested using different scoop sizes to give you flexible options depending on how you want to serve them.

Using the full recipe, you can expect:

  • About 16 large nuggets (using a 2 tablespoon scoop)
  • About 24 medium nuggets (using a 1 tablespoon scoop)
  • About 40–48 popcorn-sized pieces (using a ½ tablespoon scoop)

In my testing, I actually made part of the batch using a larger scoop and the rest smaller, and both worked great. The smaller popcorn-sized pieces crisp up the best and give you that classic bite-sized “popcorn chicken” feel.

What Size Should You Make?

Popcorn chicken (½ tbsp – recommended): Bite-sized, crispier, and perfect for dipping. This is my favorite way to make them.

Large nuggets (2 tbsp): More like traditional chicken nuggets or small patties. Great for a meal.

Medium nuggets (1 tbsp): A nice in-between size — still filling but easier to portion.

easy low carb keto popcorn chicken

How This Recipe Compares to My Other Chicken Nugget Recipes

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I’ve created quite a few low carb keto chicken nuggets recipes over the years and each one serves a slightly different purpose.

This new Keto Popcorn Chicken recipe is honestly the result of everything I’ve learned along the way.

Here’s how it compares to my other popular recipes so you can decide which one fits your goals best.

If you’ve been craving crispy popcorn chicken but want to stay on your keto diet or low carb diet, this Keto Popcorn Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite.

Carnivore / Paleo Keto Chicken Nuggets (Simplest Ingredients)

My Carnivore Keto Chicken NuggetsAttachment.tiff are the most minimal version.

  • Just 4 main ingredients + spices 
  • No fillers, no coatings
  • Very simple and quick to make
  • Great for meal prep or strict low-carb eating

Cottage Cheese Chicken Nuggets (Highest Protein)

My Cottage Cheese Chicken Nuggets are still one of my most popular recipes — and for good reason.

  • Extremely high protein (about 32g per 4 nuggets) 
  • Very moist and juicy texture
  • Made with ground chicken and blended cottage cheese
  • Air fryer gives that fast-food nugget feel

Oven Fried Cheesy Chicken Nuggets (Classic Keto Nugget)

My Oven Fried Cheesy Chicken Nuggets are one of my older recipes, but still a family favorite.

  • More of a traditional nugget shape
  • Uses Parmesan + flaxseed coating for crunch 
  • Baked instead of fried
  • Kid-approved and very flavorful

This Keto Popcorn Chicken Recipe

This new recipe is where everything finally came together.

What makes it different:

  • Made with canned organic chicken breast (no fillers)
  • Uses Parmesan inside the mixture for a firmer texture
  • Designed specifically for small, bite-sized popcorn chicken
  • Pork panko coating for that crispy exterior
  • Works best in the oven for maximum crispiness (tested!)

Why This One Fits My Midlife Macro Method Best

This recipe hits the sweet spot:

  • High protein
  • Moderate fat
  • Low carb
  • Better portion control with smaller pieces
Easy Crispy Low Carb Keto Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Easy Crispy Low Carb Keto Popcorn Chicken

Print

Easy Crispy Low Carb Keto Popcorn Chicken

If you’ve been craving crispy popcorn chicken but want to stay on your keto diet or low carb diet, this Keto Popcorn Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Servings 4 @ 6 popcorn nuggets
Calories 250kcal
Author Brenda Bennett/Sugar Free Mom

Ingredients

Outer coating

Instructions

  • Drain the canned chicken thoroughly. Place in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and press firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is essential to prevent spreading.
    Lightly shred the chicken with a fork.
  • In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cream cheese, egg, egg whites, Parmesan cheese, salt, white pepper, and garlic powder.
    Mix until fully combined. The mixture should be thick, tacky, and moldable, not wet. If needed, refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
  • In a shallow bowl, mix pork panko and smoked paprika.
  • Using your preferred scoop size, portion the mixture and lightly roll into nuggets without flattening.
    Coat each piece in the pork panko mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres.
    Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or air fryer tray with space between each piece.

Air Fryer Method

  • Preheat air fryer to 380°F. Lightly spray basket.
    Place nuggets in a single layer without overcrowding. Spray tops lightly with oil.
    Cook for 6 minutes. Shake or flip.
    Cook an additional 5–6 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Oven Method (best crispy texture)

  • Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly spray nuggets with avocado or olive oil spray.
    Bake for 12 minutes. Flip each piece.
    Bake an additional 3–5 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is lightly golden.
    Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispness.

Notes

See the instructional video on Pinterest.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving @ 6 pieces | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 870mg | Potassium: 44mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 525IU | Vitamin C: 0.03mg | Calcium: 237mg | Iron: 0.4mg

The post Easy Crispy Low Carb Keto Popcorn Chicken Recipe appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Low Carb Keto Cheddar Sausage Stuffed Bagels Recipe

These Low Carb Keto Cheddar Sausage Stuffed Bagels are a tasty and easy baked bagel that has no grains, no nuts, no gluten and is 100% perfection!

keto cheddar bagels

Keto Cheddar Sausage Stuffed Bagels

These low carb keto cheddar sausage stuffed bagels are the ultimate high-protein, grain-free breakfast that’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and satisfying for the whole family.

Made with simple ingredients like coconut flour, mozzarella cheese, Italian sausage, and whey protein, these bagel bites are fluffy, cheesy, and incredibly filling-all while staying low in net carbs, under 2 grams. All nutritional info is at the bottom of this page.

If you’re looking for a keto snack, meal prep breakfast, or air fryer-friendly bagel alternative, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Why These Low Carb Bagels Work

When it comes to creating recipes that actually support weight loss in midlife, it’s not just about being low carb-it’s about being high protein, satisfying, and sustainable.

These bagel bites check all the boxes:

  • High protein for satiety and muscle support
  • Low carb to help manage cravings and blood sugar
  • Moderate fat (not overly high) for better fat loss in midlife
  • Easy to prep ahead for busy weeks

This is exactly how I approach recipes now through my Midlife Macro Method-not extreme keto, but a balanced, sustainable approach that actually works.

keto sausage bagels

Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Weeks

If you’re anything like me, you want meals that you can make once and enjoy multiple times. 

My life is all about getting the most bang for my buck as far as time goes in the kitchen. I want to make it once, have a lot left over, to enjoy multiple times during the week.  These bagels are the perfect thing to make ahead on the weekend and store in the fridge for the week ahead.

These cheddar sausage stuffed bagels are ideal for:

  • Meal prep breakfasts
  • Grab-and-go snacks
  • Feeding the whole family
  • A quick reheat option during the week

Make a batch on the weekend, store in the fridge, and reheat when needed. They hold up beautifully and save you from decision fatigue.

Healthy, easy, make ahead, low carb, satisfying! And if you too have someone in your family with a nut allergy, this is perfect for them. If you have someone who doesn’t like coconut like my youngest son, no problem, they will never even taste it!

Ingredients for Cheddar Sausage Stuffed Bagels

  • Eggs
  • Sour cream
  • Ground flaxseed
  • Sea salt
  • Baking powder
  • Coconut flour
  • Whey protein powder
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Italian seasoning
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian sausage (casings removed, cooked and crumbled)

These ingredients create a fathead-style dough without almond flour, making this a great option for those needing a nut-free, gluten-free, low carb recipe.

low carb keto sausage bagels

Easy Swaps and Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible depending on your preferences or dietary needs:

Protein swaps:

  • Ground turkey or chicken instead of pork sausage
  • Add cooked bacon for extra flavor

Dairy-free option:

  • Use dairy-free shredded cheese
  • Swap sour cream with coconut cream

Flavor variations:

  • Add bagel seasoning for a classic bagel flavor
  • Try onion powder or everything seasoning
  • Add jalapeños for heat
low carb keto sausage bagels

Midlife Macro Tips for This Recipe

This recipe is Midlife Macro Approved, meaning it fits into a fat-loss focused approach for women in perimenopause and menopause.

Here’s how to use it effectively:

  • Pair with a side of leafy greens or cruciferous vegetables
  • Add extra lean protein if needed to hit your daily goals
  • Keep fat moderate (this recipe already supports that balance)
  • Use as a meal prep breakfast to avoid skipping protein

Remember: protein is key for satiety, metabolism, and maintaining muscle as we age.

low carb keto sausage bagels

Air Fryer Option

Yes, you can make these in the air fryer.

  • Use silicone molds or a safe bowl
  • Cook at 325°F for about 12–15 minutes
  • Add cheese at the end and cook a few more minutes

This gives you a slightly crispier exterior while keeping the inside soft and cheesy.

keto cheddar sausage bagels

Storage and Reheating

  • Store in the fridge up to 4 days
  • Freeze for longer storage
  • Reheat in microwave (30–60 seconds) or air fryer

These reheat beautifully and keep their texture.

New Here?

If you’re new to my content, here’s what you need to know:

I’ve been sharing sugar-free, low carb recipes since 2011, but my approach has evolved-especially for women in midlife.

What worked in our 20s and 30s doesn’t always work anymore.

That’s why I created my Midlife Macro Method, focusing on:

  • High protein
  • Moderate fat (not extreme keto)
  • Low carb for blood sugar balance
  • Sustainable fat loss without restriction

If you’re ready for more support:

You don’t need to be perfect—you just need a plan that works for your life.

Low Carb Keto Cheddar Sausage Stuffed Bagels

Low Carb Keto Cheddar Sausage Stuffed Bagels

Print

Low Carb Cheddar Sausage Stuffed Bagels

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 203kcal
Author Brenda Bennett | Sugar-Free Mom

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  • In a stand mixer blend the eggs and sour cream until combined.
  • Whisk the flax, salt, baking powder, coconut flour and protein powder together in a bowl.
  • Slowly pour dry mixture into wet in the mixer.
  • Combine cheddar cheese with Italian seasonings and garlic powder in a small bowl.
  • Stir in 1/2 of the cheddar cheese and seasoning mixture into the batter in the mixer.
  • Grease 2 donut pans with olive oil cooking spray.
  • Pour batter evenly into each.
  • Spoon 1/2 of the cooked sausage crumbles into the batter of each.
  • Sprinkle the rest of the cooked sausage crumbles over the top of each bagel .
  • Bake for 20 minutes.
  • Remove from oven and add the rest of the shredded cheese over each bagel.
  • Bake another 5 minutes.
  • Cool slightly then using a knife, loosen around the edges of each bagel and in the center.
  • Enjoy warm or refrigerate and reheat for 30 seconds to a minute in the microwave.

Notes

Net Carbs: 1.9 g
Midlife Macro Approved! 
This recipe was first published in Jan 2016.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 203kcal | Carbohydrates: 4.7g | Protein: 18.2g | Fat: 11.5g | Saturated Fat: 4.3g | Cholesterol: 215mg | Sodium: 464mg | Fiber: 2.8g | Sugar: 0.8g

The post Low Carb Keto Cheddar Sausage Stuffed Bagels Recipe appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.

     

Easy Keto Low Carb Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw

This Keto Low Carb Spicy Shrimp Tacos with slaw recipe is a quick low carb meal that can be made in under 30 minutes! It’s fast, tasty, and a big hit with the whole family, keto or not!  

This Keto Low Carb Spicy Shrimp Tacos with slaw recipe is a quick low carb meal that can be made in under 30 minutes! It’s fast, tasty, and a big hit with the whole family, keto or not!  

Easy Keto Low Carb Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw

(Healthy, High Protein, 30-Minute Meal)

If you’re looking for the best shrimp tacos that are quick, flavorful, and actually support your goals in midlife—these easy keto shrimp tacos are it.

These low carb shrimp tacos are made with seasoned shrimp, crisp cabbage slaw, and a creamy, tangy sauce, all wrapped in lettuce wraps or your favorite low carb tortillas.

They’re perfect for a busy weeknight, ready in under 30 minutes, and packed with protein without going overboard on fat—making them ideal for my Midlife Macro Method.

Why These Are the Best Healthy Shrimp Tacos

These aren’t just delicious tacos… they’re designed to actually work for your body—especially if you’re in perimenopause or menopause and traditional keto stopped working.

  • High protein, moderate fat
  • Only 3g net carbs per serving
  • Made with fresh ingredients
  • Perfect for taco night
  • Family-friendly and customizable

If you’ve ever felt stuck doing high-fat keto, this recipe is going to feel like a breath of fresh air.

LOWER FAT KETO

The biggest controversy with a ketogenic diet has always been in the dietary fat amount one should consume for weight loss.

Some experts believe high fat is best, anywhere from 70-80% daily. Others believe it’s best to use fat as a lever and adjust to anywhere from 50-70% depending on your goals and if you have any underlying conditions or autoimmune disease. 

In my experience before I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, I was gaining weight on a keto diet of 70% fat. I was not able to lose weight until I lowered my dietary fat intake and increased my protein intake. Again, everyone is different and changing things that are not working for you is the key.

In order to see weight loss, I  reduced to 60% dietary fat and started incorporating intermittent fasting as well as getting properly diagnosed and on medication to treat my low functioning thyroid. How much fat you should eat to lose weight on a ketogenic diet is one that will have to be determined as you follow the basic keto macros and see what works for you.

I was so encouraged that I wasn’t broken when it came to weight loss and inspired to share this with others that I created a 4 week Stall Buster Keto course for those struggling to lose weight on the traditional keto macros or those just stuck in their weight loss. 

Lower Fat Keto (What Actually Works)

There’s a lot of confusion around keto and fat intake.

Instead of forcing high fat, I teach using fat as a lever, not a goal.

For many women, especially in midlife:

  • Too much fat = stalled weight loss
  • Not enough protein = cravings + muscle loss

So recipes like these spicy shrimp tacos focus on:

  • Lean proteins like raw shrimp
  • Light sauces instead of heavy ones
  • Optional fats (like cheese or avocado)

This gives you flexibility while still staying low-carb and satisfying.

easy shrimp tacos-low carb, keto

My Shift from High Fat Keto to Midlife Macros

There was a time I followed a strict keto diet with 70–80% fat… and instead of losing weight, I was gaining.

When perimenopause hit, everything changed.

My body became more sensitive to:

  • Excess dietary fat
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Stress and inflammation

And what I discovered (through my own journey and coaching thousands of women) is this:

More fat isn’t always better—especially in midlife.

So I adjusted:

  • Lowered fat to a moderate range
  • Increased protein intake
  • Focused on real, whole foods


And that’s exactly how my Midlife Macro Method was born.

These healthy shrimp tacos are a perfect example of that approach:

✔ Lean protein (shrimp)

✔ Controlled healthy fats (olive oil, optional avocado)

✔ Low carbs

✔ Balanced for fat loss without deprivation

Other Fish Taco Options

Not a shrimp fan? No problem.

You can swap with:

  • Salmon
  • Cod
  • Any white fish
  • Even leftover grilled fish

But shrimp is my go-to because it cooks in just minutes, making this perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Other ideas would be these salmon nuggets or just baking some salmon with the spices in this recipe.

low carb keto spicy shrimp tacos

Slaw Variations

Not into creamy slaw? Try:

Or keep it super simple with:

Lime juice

Shredded cabbage

Fresh cilantro

The slaw recipe with our keto spicy shrimp includes a plain Greek yogurt but that could easily be swapped with a dairy free yogurt if needed or just mayonnaise.

keto shrimp tacos

Taco Variations (Keep It Low Carb or Flexible)

You can easily customize depending on your needs:

Low Carb Options

This is what I love—one meal, multiple ways, no need to cook separate dinners.

If you don’t feel like making tortillas at all, you can use some romaine leaves as boats or Bibb lettuce to use as cups or even iceberg to use as a wrap!

This Keto Low Carb Spicy Shrimp Tacos with slaw recipe is a quick low carb meal that can be made in under 30 minutes! It’s fast, tasty, and a big hit with the whole family, keto or not!  

LOW CARB KETO SPICY SHRIMP TACOS

Print

Low-Carb Keto Spicy Shrimp Tacos

The tastiest fish tacos ever! If you’re a taco fan these super easy Low-Carb Keto Spicy easy Shrimp Tacos will blow your mind. So simple and yet so delicious. Made with simple spices in a light and fresh garlic cilantro yogurt sauce, they’re healthy and low in carbs. This meal makes for a speedy lunch or lighter low-carb dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 110kcal
Author Brenda Bennett/Sugar Free Mom

Ingredients

Shrimp

Garlic Cilantro Yogurt

Slaw

  • 2 cups white cabbage shredded (or 200g)
  • 2 medium green onions chopped (or 30g)
  • 10 grams cilantro chopped

Optional Extras

  • 1 avocado fresh, diced (or 150g) (optional)
  • 1/4 cup cheddar cheese grated (or 28g) (optional)
  • lime wedges (optional)
  • sour cream

Instructions

Shrimp

  • Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add the spices and seasoning (chili, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper). If you have time, allow to marinade for 1 hour or overnight. Set aside.

Tortillas

  • Meanwhile, prepare the tortillas as per my recipe. Click here for recipe.

Garlic Cilantro Yogurt and Slaw

  • First prepare the garlic cilantro yogurt by adding all the ingredients to a mixing bowl and stir to combine. Season to taste. Add the shredded cabbage, green onion and cilantro to the yogurt and toss to combine.

Shrimp

  • Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over a medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 mins. Add 1 tbsp of water to loosen into a bit of a sauce and fry until cooked through, about another 2 – 3 minutes.

Assembling Tacos

  • Add some slaw to the tortillas, top with shrimp, optional avocado, cheese and highly recommended squeeze of lime!

Storage

  • Best fresh but the tacos can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for two days or frozen.

Notes

Net Carbs 3 g
Recipe Note: Nutritional Info does not include almond flour tortillas which have 2 net carbs per tortilla.
Midlife Macro Approved!
This recipe was first published in June 2021.

Nutrition

Serving: 1taco | Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 651mg | Potassium: 177mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 525IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 129mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Easy Keto Low Carb Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Slaw appeared first on Sugar-Free Mom.