Introduction

Keto Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles are a delightful low-carb twist on the classic snickerdoodle cookie. Perfect for those following a ketogenic diet, these cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with cinnamon flavor. The addition of cream cheese not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a wonderfully soft texture, making these treats irresistible. In this detailed recipe, you’ll find everything you need to create these cookies, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, nutrition information, and SmartPoints calculations for your convenience.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup erythritol or your preferred low-carb sweetener
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for the dough)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

  • 2 tbsp erythritol
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before starting, gather all the ingredients and allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature. This will make it easier to blend with the other ingredients, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and erythritol. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This aeration will help create a tender cookie.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until fully combined. The egg will provide moisture and binding, while the vanilla adds a pleasant flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in denser cookies.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine the erythritol and ground cinnamon for the coating. This mixture will give your cookies that signature snickerdoodle flavor.

Step 8: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to space the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 9: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

Take each cookie dough ball and roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring that it is well-coated. This adds flavor and a delightful crunch to the exterior of the cookies.

Step 10: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as they can become dry.

Step 11: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for allowing the cookies to firm up.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, your Keto Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles are ready to enjoy! These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Nutrition Information (Per Cookie, Makes Approximately 12 Cookies)

  • Calories: 107
  • Fat: 9g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Net Carbs: 2g
  • Sugar Alcohol: 1g

SmartPoints Calculation

For those following the Weight Watchers program, each cookie is approximately 2 SmartPoints. This low SmartPoints count makes these cookies a guilt-free indulgence on your keto journey.

Tips for Success

  1. Almond Flour: Ensure you use finely ground almond flour for the best texture. Avoid almond meal, as it can lead to a gritty cookie.
  2. Sweetener Substitutes: If you prefer a different sweetener, you can use monk fruit or stevia, but keep in mind that different sweeteners have varying sweetness levels. Adjust to taste.
  3. Experiment with Flavors: For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or using vanilla bean paste in place of vanilla extract.

Conclusion

These Keto Cream Cheese Snickerdoodles are not only easy to make but also a satisfying treat that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. Their delightful texture and rich cinnamon flavor are sure to please both keto dieters and traditional cookie lovers alike. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided, you can enjoy these delicious cookies without straying from your dietary goals. Happy baking!