Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim)
  • 2 oz cream cheese (full fat)
  • 1 cup almond flour (blanched, superfine)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp xanthan gum (optional, for improved texture)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Coating:

  • ¼ cup granulated erythritol (or any keto-approved sweetener)
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

Step 2: Melt the Cheeses

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine shredded mozzarella and cream cheese. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir. Microwave again for another 30 seconds, or until the cheese is completely melted and smooth. Mix well until it forms a unified dough-like mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, and xanthan gum. This ensures even distribution of leavening and gives the dough some elasticity. If you’re omitting xanthan gum, your pretzel bites will still hold but might be slightly less chewy.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Add the melted cheese mixture to the dry ingredients. Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Using a spatula or your hands, knead the mixture until a cohesive dough forms. It will be sticky at first, but after about 2-3 minutes of kneading, the dough should firm up and become more pliable.

Step 5: Shape the Bites

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope, about ½ inch thick. Cut each rope into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. You should end up with approximately 24-28 pretzel bites depending on size.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pretzel bites onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly puffed. Watch closely during the last 2 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Coating

While the bites are baking, combine the erythritol and cinnamon in a small bowl. In another bowl, melt the butter and set it aside for coating the pretzels once they’re out of the oven.

Step 8: Coat and Toss

Once the bites are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow to cool for 1–2 minutes. Using tongs or a spoon, dip each bite into the melted butter, then immediately roll in the cinnamon-sweetener mix until well coated.

Step 9: Serve Warm

These are best enjoyed warm and fresh, right out of the oven. They pair beautifully with a keto cream cheese dip or sugar-free chocolate sauce.

Keto Cinnamon Pretzel Bites Nutritional Information

(Per 1 serving = approx. 4 pretzel bites | Recipe makes ~24 bites)

  • Calories: 150
  • Fat: 12g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Total Carbs: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Net Carbs: 2g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 180mg

Weight Watchers SmartPoints (Per Serving)

Each serving (4 bites) is approximately 3 SmartPoints (calculated using the WW Freestyle system). The low SmartPoints count is thanks to the high fat and protein content, and virtually zero added sugar.

Note: Always recalculate using your WW app as SmartPoints can vary slightly depending on brands and portion size.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These pretzel bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them rubbery due to the melted cheese base.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncoated baked pretzel bites in a zip-top bag. Thaw and reheat in the oven, then coat with butter and cinnamon mix just before serving.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

Want to take this recipe to another level? Try some of these variations:

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon mix for sweet heat.
  • Pumpkin Spice: Use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a fall-flavored version.
  • Savory Option: Skip the cinnamon coating, brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with Parmesan.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Melt keto-friendly dark chocolate and drizzle over the top after coating.

Why Fathead Dough Works

Fathead dough is a low-carb miracle made primarily from melted cheese and almond flour. It mimics the elasticity and chewiness of gluten-containing doughs, making it ideal for breads, bagels, and, in this case, pretzel bites. It’s rich in healthy fats and protein, helping keep you full while staying in ketosis.

Health Benefits

These keto pretzel bites are rich in healthy fats from cheese and almond flour, and they contain no added sugars or refined carbs. They make an excellent choice for people managing blood sugar levels, following ketogenic or diabetic diets, or anyone simply trying to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Serving Suggestions

These bites are great on their own, but here are a few pairing ideas:

  • Keto Cream Cheese Dip: Mix cream cheese with a splash of vanilla and sweetener for a creamy dip.
  • Sugar-Free Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle or dip for a dessert-like experience.
  • Chai Tea or Bulletproof Coffee: The perfect beverage pairing for these warm, cinnamon-rich treats.

Expert Tips for Best Results

  • Make sure the cheese is fully melted for a smooth dough.
  • Kneading the dough is crucial—take your time to incorporate all the ingredients.
  • Do not skip preheating the oven—it ensures a fluffy rise and golden crust.
  • Let the bites cool slightly before coating to help the butter and cinnamon stick better.

Common Questions Answered

Q: Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
A: Not directly. Coconut flour absorbs more moisture and will make the dough too dry. If substituting, use only ¼ cup coconut flour and add another egg.

Q: What’s the texture like?
A: Chewy inside with a lightly crisp exterior. Very similar to traditional soft pretzel bites.

Q: Can I make them dairy-free?
A: Fathead dough is cheese-based, but some dairy-free mozzarella substitutes may work. However, the result may not be identical.

Conclusion

These Keto Cinnamon Pretzel Bites are a perfect low-carb solution for sweet snack cravings. Whether you’re following keto, looking to impress guests, or just want a healthier treat, this recipe checks all the boxes: delicious, easy, and satisfying. With only 2g net carbs per serving and a modest 3 SmartPoints, you can indulge in flavor without compromising your goals.

Add these to your meal prep, weekend baking routine, or holiday snack table—you won’t regret it!