Craving a dessert while sticking to your keto diet? These keto cream cheese roll-ups are a versatile and easy-to-make treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your low-carb goals. Inspired by nostalgic flavors, this healthier version offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party offering.
Introduction: A Keto-Friendly Twist on a Classic
Many have fond memories of cream cheese roll-ups made with white bread and sugar. This recipe recreates that nostalgic flavor in a healthier, keto-friendly way. By utilizing low-carb tortillas and alternative sweeteners, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that doesn't compromise on taste.
Ingredients and Variations
The beauty of these cream cheese roll-ups lies in their simplicity and adaptability. Here's what you'll need:
- Base: Rectangular sliced ham (avoid deli-sliced ham).
- Filling: Whipped cream cheese.
- Optional Sweetener: Coconut sugar and cinnamon (for a sweeter version).
- Wrappers: Keto-friendly tortillas (street taco size recommended to keep carb count low).
- Cooking Fat: Butter (regular, vegan, or ghee) for pan-frying.
You can easily customize these roll-ups to suit your dietary preferences and taste:
- Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese and vegan butter. Almond or cashew-based cream cheese can be used.
- Paleo: Use almond or cashew-based cream cheese.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of nutmeg for a bit of spice.
Making Keto Cream Cheese Roll-Ups: Two Delicious Ways
Here are two variations of the recipe, one savory and one sweet:
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Savory Ham and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation time.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of rectangular sliced ham
- ¾ oz Whipped Cream Cheese
Instructions:
- Place the whole package of rectangular sliced ham on a cutting board.
- Wipe off any excess moisture with a paper towel.
- Spread the cream cheese onto the ham in an even pattern using a knife.
- Fold over the end and roll it up!
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 61
- Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 5
- Prep time: 5 mins
- Total time: 5 mins
Crispy Cinnamon Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
For those with a sweet tooth, these churro-inspired roll-ups are a must-try.
Ingredients:
- Keto-friendly tortillas (street taco size)
- Cream cheese
- Coconut sugar
- Cinnamon
- Butter
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the coconut sugar and cinnamon.
- Gently warm your tortillas on the stove (just for a couple of seconds to make them more flexible).
- Spread each tortilla with 2-3 tbsp of cream cheese, covering the whole surface.
- In a bowl, blend together the cream cheese, 1 tsp cinnamon and ¼ C.
- Roll the tortillas closed around the filling.
- Heat a pan over medium-low heat with the butter.
- Dip each roll up in the cinnamon sugar mixture (make sure each piece has some butter on it from the pan to help the mixture stick).
- Put them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Flip them over and air fryer for a few more minutes.
Serving and Storage
These roll-ups are best served fresh, especially the crispy cinnamon version, as the tortillas tend to lose their crispness over time.
- Serving: Arrange the roll-ups on a plate, cut side up, and serve with toothpicks.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Low-Carb Appetizer Variations: Beyond the Roll-Up
If you're looking for more low-carb appetizer options, consider these variations:
- Cream Cheese Pinwheels with Deli Meat: Skip the tortilla and spread cream cheese on slices of deli ham, turkey, or roast beef. Add chopped dill pickle or avocado before rolling up. Refrigerate, slice into one-inch pieces, and serve with toothpicks.
- Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers: Halve mini sweet peppers, remove the seeds, and fill with a mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices.
The Keto Advantage: Simple Substitutions for a Healthier Lifestyle
Low-carb diets, particularly the keto diet, have gained popularity for their potential weight loss benefits. The key is to reduce carbohydrate intake and replace it with healthy fats. These cream cheese roll-ups exemplify how simple substitutions can make a significant difference in your dietary approach.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
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