9 Simple Keto Dessert Recipes with Cream Cheese

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Let’s be honest, sometimes that keto craving for something sweet hits HARD. 😩 But fear not, fellow dessert lovers! Cream cheese, with its rich texture and tangy flavor, is a keto baking superhero! It forms the base for countless decadent desserts that won’t kick me out of ketosis. Ready to explore a world of low-carb sweetness? Let’s get whipping.

Creamy Keto Classics:

1. No-Bake Keto Cheesecake Bites:

These bite-sized beauties are perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth on the go. Plus, they require zero oven time.

  • Prep Time: 15 Minutes
  • Chill Time: 2 Hours
  • Yields: 12 Servings

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit blend)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar-free chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sweetener, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt until smooth and creamy.
  3. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until the cheesecake bites are firm.
  5. Once firm, drizzle with melted sugar-free chocolate chips (if desired) and return to the freezer for an additional 15 minutes to set.
  6. Store the cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Tips:

  • For a fun flavor twist, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the cheesecake mixture.
  • Get creative with toppings! Chopped nuts, sugar-free sprinkles, or a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream would all be delicious additions.

2. Decadent Keto Chocolate Mousse:

Dive into a cloud of rich, chocolatey goodness! This mousse comes together in minutes.

  • Prep Time: 5 Minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 Minutes
  • Yields: 2 Servings

Ingredients:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup powdered sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit blend)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream, cold

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, cocoa powder, and powdered sweetener until smooth.
  2. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate cream cheese mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Divide the mousse into two small bowls or ramekins. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mousse to set.

Tips:

  • For an extra chocolatey kick, sprinkle the mousse with sugar-free chocolate shavings or keto-friendly chocolate chips.
  • Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder before serving.

Beyond the Basics:

3. Keto Cream Cheese Cookies:

Who can resist a warm, gooey cookie? This recipe delivers on taste and texture.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Yields: 12 Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit blend)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/4 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup coconut flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar-free chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the powdered sweetener and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Beat in the egg until the mixture is smooth.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  7. Fold in the sugar-free chocolate chips.
  8. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

  • If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of almond flour at a time until it is more manageable.
  • For chewier cookies, bake for a shorter amount of time. For crispier cookies, bake for a longer amount of time.
  • Get creative with mix-ins! Chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or unsweetened shredded coconut would all be delicious additions.

4. Keto Cream Cheese Pancakes:

Yes, pancakes CAN be keto! These fluffy delights are perfect for breakfast or dessert.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Yields: 6-8 Pancakes

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for greasing the pan

Instructions:

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the softened cream cheese, eggs, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Blend until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
  3. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease lightly with butter.
  4. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake.
  5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Tips:

  • For sweeter pancakes, add a tablespoon of powdered sweetener to the batter.
  • These pancakes are delicious served with sugar-free syrup, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Keto Cheesecake Variations:

  • Lemon Blueberry Keto Cheesecake Bites: Add a burst of freshness with lemon zest and sugar-free blueberry preserves swirled into the cheesecake mixture. Top with a fresh blueberry before serving.
  • Peanut Butter Cup Keto Cheesecake Bites: Combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate! Stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar-free peanut butter into the cheesecake mixture. After chilling, dip each bite in melted sugar-free chocolate and top with a sprinkle of sea salt.
  • Pumpkin Spice Keto Cheesecake: Embrace the fall flavors with this twist. Incorporate 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice into the cheesecake base. You can bake this as a traditional cheesecake or create mini cheesecakes in muffin tins.

More Delicious Keto Cream Cheese Desserts:

5. Keto Strawberry Cream Cheese Fluff:

This light and airy dessert is perfect for a refreshing treat.

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 Hour
  • Yields: 4 servings

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sliced strawberries

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sweetener, and vanilla extract.
  3. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
  5. Spoon into dessert cups and chill for at least one hour before serving.

Tips:

  • For a more intense strawberry flavor, use freeze-dried strawberries that have been pulverized into a powder. You can also use sugar-free strawberry preserves, but use them sparingly as they can add extra sweetness.
  • This recipe is incredibly versatile. Try using other keto-friendly fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or even a combination of berries.

6. Keto Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Cookies:

These cookies have it all—chocolate chips, a creamy texture, and they’re perfectly keto!

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 12 minutes
  • Yields: 12 Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sweetener
  • 1/4 cup powdered sweetener
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar-free chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  3. Gradually beat in the granulated sweetener and powdered sweetener until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  7. Stir in the sugar-free chocolate chips.
  8. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Tips:

  • Refrigerate the cookie dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading.
  • Feel free to experiment with different types of sugar-free chocolate chips, like milk chocolate or dark chocolate. You can even add in some chopped nuts for added crunch.

Tips for Baking with Cream Cheese on Keto:

  • Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture in your keto desserts. Low-fat or fat-free varieties often contain added carbohydrates and may not provide the desired richness.
  • Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Cream cheese that is too cold won’t blend smoothly, and cream cheese that is too warm can make your batter runny. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using it. If you are short on time, you can microwave it in 10-second intervals, but keep a close eye on it to prevent overheating.
  • Don’t Overmix: When combining cream cheese with other ingredients, avoid overmixing, especially after adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough or rubbery desserts.
  • Sweetener Choices Matter: When it comes to keto baking, the type of sweetener you choose can make a big difference. Here are a few popular options:
    • Erythritol: A sugar alcohol that has almost no calories and does not raise blood sugar levels. It has a clean, sweet taste and is less likely to cause digestive issues compared to other sugar alcohols.
    • Monk Fruit Sweetener: A natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from monk fruit. It’s much sweeter than sugar, so a little goes a long way.
    • Allulose: Another natural, low-calorie sweetener that has minimal impact on blood sugar levels. It browns like sugar when baked, making it a good option for cookies and cakes.
  • Chill Your Desserts: Many keto desserts, especially those with cream cheese, benefit from chilling time in the refrigerator. Chilling helps them to set and develop their flavors more fully.

Expanding Our Keto Cream Cheese Dessert Horizon

Now that we’ve explored some classic keto cream cheese desserts and learned essential baking tips, let’s venture even further into the realm of delicious possibilities! It’s time to unlock even more creativity with our low-carb baking.

7. Keto Cream Cheese Brownies:

These fudgy, decadent brownies get a boost of richness and a hint of tanginess from the cream cheese. Prepare to have your mind blown by this keto masterpiece.

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Yields: 16 brownies

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup granulated sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit blend)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar-free chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and melted butter until smooth.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the granulated sweetener and beat until well combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, almond flour, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Fold in the sugar-free chocolate chips.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
  10. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Tips:

  • For extra fudgy brownies, underbake them slightly.
  • If you prefer a less intense chocolate flavor, you can reduce the amount of cocoa powder to 1/3 cup.

8. Keto Cream Cheese Fat Bombs:

These little bites are packed with healthy fats and flavor, making them the perfect snack or dessert to curb those sweet cravings and keep you satisfied.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Freeze Time: 30 minutes
  • Yields: 12 fat bombs

Ingredients:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit blend)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup sugar-free chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the shredded coconut, powdered sweetener, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
  4. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
  6. Once firm, drizzle with melted sugar-free chocolate chips (if desired).
  7. Store the fat bombs in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Tips:

  • Get creative with mix-ins. Chopped nuts, unsweetened cocoa powder, or even a dash of cinnamon would add delicious flavor variations.

9. Keto Cream Cheese Mug Cake:

Craving a single-serving keto dessert that’s ready in minutes? Look no further than this easy and satisfying mug cake.

  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 minute
  • Yields: 1 serving

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon almond flour
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit blend)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar-free chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Add the cream cheese to a microwave-safe mug and microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until softened.
  2. Add the egg, almond flour, powdered sweetener, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt to the mug.
  3. Mix well with a fork until smooth.
  4. Fold in the sugar-free chocolate chips.
  5. Microwave on high for 60-90 seconds, or until the cake is cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave.
  6. Let the mug cake cool slightly before enjoying.

Tips:

  • If you prefer a less dense cake, you can add a tablespoon of unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream to the batter.
  • Get creative with toppings! Try adding a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few fresh berries.

Embracing the Keto Dessert Journey

As we continue on this exciting journey of exploring keto cream cheese desserts, remember that the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations, mix-ins, and toppings to create your own unique and delicious creations.

Keep these key takeaways in mind:

  • Cream cheese is your keto baking friend. Its versatility and rich texture make it a star ingredient in countless low-carb desserts.
  • Embrace the power of low-carb sweeteners. Erythritol, monk fruit, and allulose are just a few options that can add sweetness to your desserts without the guilt.
  • Don’t be afraid to get creative. The best keto desserts are often born from experimentation. So have fun in the kitchen, try new things, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious results.

Conclusion:

Don’t let the keto diet hold you back from enjoying dessert. These simple and delicious recipes prove that you can indulge your sweet tooth while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. So grab your cream cheese and get ready to explore a world of keto dessert possibilities.

Happy Baking.

Read Also:

7 Quick Dessert Recipes You Can Make in Under 10 Minutes

17 Low Calorie Indian Sweets and Desserts Recipes for 2024

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