Top Keto Cracker Alternatives That Crush Crunch Cravings Without the Carbs!

For many, crackers are a go-to snack, offering a satisfying crunch and serving as the perfect vehicle for dips and spreads. However, those following a ketogenic (keto) diet often find themselves missing this simple pleasure due to the high carbohydrate content of traditional crackers. Fortunately, a variety of keto cracker alternatives exist, allowing you to indulge in crunchy snacks without breaking ketosis.

The Keto Cracker Conundrum: Why Traditional Crackers Don't Fit

The main challenge with crackers on keto is their carb content. Most conventional crackers are made from wheat or other high-carb ingredients, making them unsuitable for a low-carb diet. Even some so-called “healthy” crackers contain hidden sugars and starches. Ritz Crackers have 10 grams of carbs per serving and Wheat Thins have 22 grams of carbs. Goldfish crackers have 20 grams of carbs, and a serving of Cheez-Its has 17 grams. Saltine crackers have 2.1 net carbs in each cracker.

To stay keto-friendly, crackers must be low in carbs, high in healthy fats, and free of unnecessary fillers.

What Makes a Cracker Keto-Friendly?

When choosing keto crackers, keep the following criteria in mind:

Low in Carbs: The primary goal is to minimize carbohydrate intake.
High in Healthy Fats: Healthy fats are a key component of the keto diet.
Minimal Ingredients: The fewer additives and fillers, the better.
No Added Sugars: Even small amounts of sugar can impact ketosis.

Store-Bought Keto Cracker Options

Thankfully, there are some great low-carb options on the market.

Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers

Pork Rinds

Don’t underestimate the power of pork rinds! These crispy snacks are made from pork skin that’s been fried until golden brown. They’re high in protein, have zero carbs (depending on what flavor you get), and come in a variety of flavors and are available in just about any supermarket. Some brands even make pork rind-based chips or crackers, which are carb-free and high in fat.

Almond Flour Crackers

These crispy crackers are made with almond flour and come in flavors like cheddar and everything. The carb count again varies by flavor, but the everything spice flavor (for example) has 12 total carbs and 2 net carbs per serving. One thing I really appreciate about this option is that in addition to the per serving information, the nutritional panel tells you what the macros would be if you ate the whole bag.

DIY Keto Crackers: Recipes and Ideas

Turns out, making crackers at home is actually pretty simple! Crafting your own low-carb crackers at home means you get fresh flavors and total ingredient transparency. There are many different recipes out there, and you can choose the one that is best for you.

Two-Ingredient Keto Crackers

These keto crackers are made with just 2 ingredients: almond flour and cheese. These low carb crackers were adapted from keto tortilla chips. By flattening out the dough to become a little bit thinner and switching out the cheese used, it is possible to create a keto version of wheat thins.

Ingredients:

Almond flour (blanched almond flour, and not almond meal)
Shredded cheese (cheddar cheese gives the crackers extra crispiness and holds together the best)
Salt and pepper to taste
Water (if needed)

Instructions:

Make the dough: Add almond flour and shredded cheese to a food processor or high-speed blender and blend well until a dough appears. If the dough is too crumbly, add a little water.
Roll out: Place the dough onto a piece of parchment paper, and place another piece of parchment paper on top. Roll it out until flat and thin. Using a pizza cutter, cut the dough into squares. It will be infinitely easier to slice more evenly.
Bake: Place the crackers onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes before flipping and cooking for a further 5 minutes.

Tips:

Do not overbake the crackers, as they continue to crisp up as they are cooling down.
Feel free to add some spices to the dough to give it extra flavor.

Storage:

Store crackers at room temperature in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for at least 3 days.
Place crackers in a ziplock bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Air Fryer Option:

If you own an air fryer, you can save time by baking them there instead. Simply prepare the crackers as directed and place them on a single layer in the air fryer basket. ‘Fry’ at 200C/400F for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Cheese-Free Option:

If you’d like to make plain keto crackers, replace the cheese with 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil.

Reviving Soft Crackers:

If your cooled crackers have become slightly soft, you can quickly remedy it. Preheat the oven to 180C/350F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the crackers onto the lined sheet. Bake for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Bacon Chips

There’s no real recipe for this. Just cut bacon into squares, and cook until it’s super crispy. That’s it. Bacon chips. They’re so good, they’re basically candy.

Other Keto Cracker Ideas

Keto Cheese Cracker: You can make your own keto cheese crackers with only two ingredients, and they are crunchy and easy to store.
Keto Friendly Sour Cream and Chives Crackers: You can enjoy them with toppings, spreads, and dips.
Keto Almond Flour Crackers: Keto almond flour crackers can be made with just five ingredients. In addition to being low carb, they are sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan-free, and grain-free.
Chia Seed Crackers: Not only are Chia seed crackers low in carbs, but they have other health benefits.

Important Considerations

Reading Labels: Whether it's crackers or chips, always scrutinize the ingredients and nutritional information. A "low-carb" or "keto-friendly" label doesn't guarantee adherence to these dietary needs. Some products labeled “keto-friendly” or "low-carb" could contain hidden carbs or additives that aren't ideal for a low-carb diet. Always scrutinize labels for the best choices.
Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds have differing carb counts. Cashews and pistachios contain more carbs, while macadamias and pecans are on the lower side. Chia seeds, high in fiber, result in fewer net carbs. Consume nuts with higher carbs in moderation. Nuts and seeds contain more carbs, while macadamias and pecans are on the lower side. Chia seeds, high in fiber, result in fewer net carbs.
Almond and Coconut Flour: Almond flour (from ground almonds) and coconut flour (from dried coconut meat) are staples in low-carb and keto cuisine. As explained in our Big Low-Carb Baking Guide, they can't be swapped equally with other flours due to varied absorption rates.

Serving Suggestions: Dips, Cheeses, and More

Once you have your keto crackers, the next step is figuring out how to enjoy them while maintaining ketosis.

Dips

Elevate your low-carb chips or crackers with a selection of dips.

Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto

Chunky Dips: Indulge in the robust flavors of chunky dips to elevate your snack time. Dive into the creamy depths of Chunky Guacamole, or savor the spicy kick in Pico De Gallo.
Veggie-Based Dips: Dive into the delightful world of veggie-based dips. Start with the rich and unique Roasted Zucchini Hummus, or perhaps indulge in the nutty undertones of Macadamia Hummus. For avocado lovers, Avocado Hummus is a blend of creamy textures and fresh flavors, while Buffalo Cauliflower Hummus offers a kick that's sure to be a hit. Don't miss the smoky allure of Baba Ganoush or the zesty zest of Mexican Salsa Verde.
Cheesy Dips: Indulge in the mouthwatering realm of cheesy dips, where each one brings its own unique twist. Delight in the sharp notes of Creamy Blue Cheese Dip or savor the savory combo in the Cheesy Bacon Dip. The Cheesy Pesto Dip seamlessly merges rich cheese with aromatic herbs, and the Spinach Bacon & Artichoke Dip offers a delectable blend of ingredients. Dive into the fall-inspired Pumpkin, Walnut & Feta Dip, or enjoy the fiery touch of the Chipotle Red Pepper Cheese Dip. Experience the herbal magic of the Herbed Goat's Cheese Dip, and the tangy fusion in the Bruschetta Feta Dip.
Meat and Fish-Based Dips: Venture into the savory domain of meat and fish-based delicacies that promise a gastronomic adventure. The Salmon Paté offers a smooth, rich experience, while the Mackerel Pate with Horseradish introduces a zesty kick. Experience the classic finesse of the French Chicken Liver Pate and revel in the hearty combination of the Chicken & Bacon Pâté. For those looking to make a festive impression, the Holiday Entertainer's Wreath is an exquisite choice.
Cranberry-Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip: This Cranberry-Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip is one of our favorites. We used allulose instead of sugar and I just pulled out a bag of unflavored pork rinds.

Cheeses

The rich textures and diverse flavors of cheese can complement the crispness of your snacks.

Drinks

Quench your thirst with keto-friendly beverages. Herbal tea, either hot or iced, can offer a soothing experience, while sparkling water, perhaps with a splash of lemon or lime, provides a refreshing fizz without the added sugars.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crunch

The secret is minimizing moisture during baking or cooking. Ensure even, thin slices and spread them apart on the baking sheet. Using a lower temperature or even a dehydrator can produce a crunchier texture without overcooking.

Storage Tips

Airtight storage in a cool, dry place maintains crunchiness. Use resealable bags or containers for seed-based crackers and kale chips. Once done, store them in sealed containers.

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