Keto Bagels: The Ultimate Low-Carb Bread Alternative That Tastes Like the Real Thing

Keto bagels are the perfect solution for low-carb eaters craving that chewy, doughy bite of classic bagels—without the carbs. If you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle and miss traditional bread, you’re not alone. Bagels, with their soft interior and crispy crust, are among the most missed baked goods. But thanks to a handful of smart ingredients and no yeast, you can now enjoy a version that’s grain-free, gluten-free, and completely keto-approved.

These 5-ingredient low-carb bagels taste just like the real deal, thanks to a magical dough made from almond flour, mozzarella, cream cheese, and eggs. They bake up beautifully golden, dense yet tender, with no weird aftertaste—just satisfying, warm goodness in every bite.

In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best keto bagels at home, customize them with flavors, store them the right way, and understand their nutritional edge over regular bread. Plus, we’ll answer your top questions like: Are Thomas keto bagel thins really keto? Does Costco sell keto bagels?

Discover great ideas like Keto Cheese Popcorn for snacking or pair your bagel with our Quick Keto Pizza Sauce for a savory twist.

Introduction to Keto Bagels

What Are Keto Bagels?

Keto bagels are a low-carb, high-fat twist on the traditional bagel—crafted to fit a ketogenic diet. Unlike regular bagels made with wheat flour and sugar, keto bagels typically use almond flour and cheese as their base. They’re baked, not boiled, and while they skip the yeast, they don’t skimp on that classic bagel chew.

So, are they just a cheesy lump pretending to be bread? Not at all. Done right, they rival the best breakfast breads out there.

Keto Bagels: The Ultimate Low-Carb Bread Alternative That Tastes Like the Real Thing

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• Author: mahlzine
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1½ cups almond flour

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 tbsp cream cheese

• 3 large eggs

• Toppings of choice

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Instructions

• Mix almond flour + baking powder.

• Melt cheeses in 20-second intervals.

• Combine everything into dough.

• Shape into bagels.

• Brush with egg wash, add toppings.

• Bake at 375°F for 12–15 min.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 175 kcal
• Sugar: <1 g
• Sodium: 230 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg

The base recipe typically includes almond flour, eggs, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and baking powder.

These ingredients mimic the binding and rising properties of gluten and yeast in traditional doughs—minus the carbs.

Why Are Keto Bagels So Popular in Low-Carb Diets?

There’s a reason so many keto lovers rave about these bagels:

• They’re ready in under 30 minutes from scratch
• Each bagel has just 2g net carbs—that’s a fraction of a regular one
• They’re free from gluten and grain, making them great for those with food sensitivities
• You can freeze them, toast them, sandwich them—just like real bagels

Add to that the fact they require no rising time, and you’ve got a fast, foolproof recipe that doesn’t need a bread machine or specialty flour.

Plus, keto bagels are one of the most versatile low-carb breads you can make. They go great with eggs, cheese, avocado, or even sweet toppings like keto banana jam or almond butter.

Want more breakfast ideas? Check out our Keto Sweet Potato Casserole for another low-carb comfort food option.

Ingredients That Make Keto Bagels Work

5-Ingredient Formula: The Simplicity of Keto Bagels

One of the best things about keto bagels is how few ingredients they require. You don’t need special flours, xanthan gum, or a complicated bread machine. In fact, with just five pantry staples, you’ll be biting into a warm, chewy bagel in under 30 minutes.

Here’s the short list of what you’ll need to make these low-carb wonders:

Almond flour and cheese team up to mimic the dense-yet-chewy feel of real bagels—without gluten or grains.

✅ Ingredient Tips:

• Use superfine blanched almond flour, not almond meal. This ensures a smooth, bready texture without grit.
• Low-moisture mozzarella is crucial. It gives your dough elasticity and bakes into a crusty golden finish.
• Full-fat cream cheese is best. Reduced-fat versions contain more water and less flavor.
• Room temperature eggs blend better with the dough and improve structure.

Why Fathead Dough Is the Secret Sauce

Fathead dough might sound odd, but it’s a staple in the keto baking world. Originally from a low-carb documentary called Fat Head, this cheese-based dough delivers surprising results: it’s stretchable, moldable, and bakes up just like traditional flour dough.

With fathead dough, you get structure, flexibility, and chew—all without yeast or gluten.

The melted mozzarella and cream cheese act as the binding agents that bring the almond flour and eggs together. As it bakes, the fats from the cheeses crisp up the outside while keeping the inside soft.

You might be thinking, “Won’t this just taste like cheese bread?” Surprisingly, no. Thanks to the baking powder and almond flour, the cheese taste is subtle—almost invisible when flavored with seasonings or toppings.

Don’t miss our Keto Sweet Potato Casserole if you want another comfort food recipe with smart ingredient swaps.

Bonus Tip:

For the ultimate no-fail result, use a food processor or stand mixer with a dough blade to blend everything together. It helps create a consistent dough that’s easy to shape and bakes evenly.

Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Keto Bagels

Making the Dough: Prep, Melt, Mix

Getting the dough right is key to making chewy, golden keto bagels that feel and taste like the real thing. Luckily, this recipe skips the need for yeast or rising time. You’ll go from zero to bagel in less than 30 minutes.

✅ Step 1: Prepare Dry and Wet Ingredients

Start by combining your dry ingredients:

• In a small bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of almond flour and 1 tablespoon of baking powder.

Meanwhile, melt your cheeses:

• In a large microwave-safe bowl, add 2 cups shredded mozzarella and 2 tablespoons full-fat cream cheese.
• Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until the cheeses are completely melted and form a smooth, cohesive mixture.

Pro tip: Don’t try to rush the melting—overheating will make the cheese rubbery instead of pliable.

✅ Step 2: Combine and Process the Dough

Allow the melted cheese to cool for a minute or two before transferring it to a food processor.

• Add the almond flour mixture and 2 room-temperature eggs.
• Pulse until a sticky dough forms.

If you don’t have a food processor, mix everything quickly by hand. Just make sure the dough is uniform—no dry clumps or cheese pockets.

✅ Step 3: Shape into Bagels

• Dust your kitchen counter with a little almond flour.
• Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
• Roll each into a log about 6 inches long, then join the ends to form a ring.

Place each bagel on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Looking for inspiration? For cleaner, more uniform results, try using a donut pan to shape them. Just pipe the dough into the mold using a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off.

✅ Step 4: Egg Wash and Toppings

• Whisk 1 additional egg and brush the tops of each bagel. This creates a golden crust while helping toppings stick.
• Top with your favorites—sesame seeds, poppy seeds, “everything but the bagel” seasoning, or garlic flakes.

Shaping, Baking, and Finishing Touches

Now comes the magic—baking!

✅ Step 5: Bake the Bagels

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

Let them cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the inside firm up and makes for a cleaner cut.

Want a hot and crispy finish? Slice and toast them in a toaster oven before serving. They’re perfect for breakfast sandwiches or a midday keto snack.

Don’t miss our Quick Keto Pizza Sauce—it makes a perfect spread for savory bagel sandwiches.

Keto Bagel Texture & Taste Compared to Regular Bagels

Are Keto Bagels Chewy and Satisfying?

Let’s get real: taste and texture make or break any bread substitute. You can nail macros and still feel let down if the bite’s too spongy or the flavor’s off. So, how do keto bagels really compare?

The short answer? Surprisingly well.

Thanks to the fathead dough—made from almond flour, mozzarella, cream cheese, and eggs—keto bagels hit the mark on two essential fronts:

• Chewiness: The melted mozzarella creates a stretchy, dough-like texture that mimics gluten, offering a satisfying, tear-apart experience.
• Crust: An egg wash before baking helps form a lightly crisp, golden crust that’s visually and texturally similar to traditional bagels.

The interior isn’t airy like a classic New York bagel (which relies on yeast), but it’s dense in the best way—moist without being soggy, firm but not tough.

Compared to most low-carb breads, these bagels hold their shape, toast beautifully, and can handle toppings like cream cheese, eggs, or avocado without falling apart.

How the Texture Mimics Traditional Wheat-Based Bagels

When baked right, keto bagels check off all the qualities people love in regular bagels—minus the gluten and carbs. Here’s how they stack up:

Most importantly, they don’t taste eggy or cheesy, as many keto breads do. This is due to the balance of mozzarella with almond flour and the right ratio of baking powder to give them lift.

Still skeptical? Try toasting one with butter or adding bacon and eggs—you’ll forget it’s low-carb.

Customizing Your Keto Bagels with Flavor Variations

Sesame, Everything, and Onion Bagel Toppings

One of the greatest joys of bagels is the customization. And just because you’re making keto bagels doesn’t mean you’re stuck with plain. These bagels are a blank canvas, ready to take on all your favorite flavors—from savory to slightly sweet.

Let’s start with the classics:

• Sesame Bagels: Sprinkle toasted white or black sesame seeds over the egg wash before baking. They add a nutty flavor and beautiful crunch.
• Everything Bagels: Use “everything but the bagel” seasoning for a bold, salty finish. Look for blends with garlic, onion flakes, poppy seeds, and sesame.
• Onion Bagels: Add a bit of onion powder to the dough, then sprinkle onion flakes and coarse sea salt on top before baking.

Don’t miss our Keto Cheese Popcorn for a similar savory fix between meals.

These toppings are added after brushing with egg wash so they adhere better and bake into the crust.

Cinnamon Raisin, Cheese Bagels & More Flavor Ideas

Looking to go beyond savory? Sweet and cheesy variations bring keto bagels into snack and dessert territory—without spiking your blood sugar.

Sweet-Inspired Variations:

• Cinnamon “Raisin” Bagels:
  • Add ½ tablespoon of cinnamon to the dough.
  • For a raisin feel, mix in a few chopped sugar-free dried berries or even keto chocolate chips.
• Nutty Almond Bagels:
  • Mix in crushed almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
  • Enjoy with a spread of almond butter or a keto-friendly jam.

Cheese Lover’s Favorites:

• Asiago Bagels (Cheese Bagels):
  • Mix ¼ cup of shredded Asiago or cheddar cheese into the dough.
  • Sprinkle more on top before baking for a bubbly, golden top.
• Jalapeño Cheddar:
  • Add sliced jalapeños into the dough and top with sharp cheddar for a spicy kick.

Looking for inspiration? Try Keto Sweet Potato Casserole for a low-carb side that pairs beautifully with savory bagels.

Tips for Perfect Customization:

• Always mix in flavor ingredients after the dough is formed, but before shaping.
• Use egg wash to make toppings stick and prevent burning.
• For sweet variations, avoid sugar alcohols that brown too quickly or taste overly artificial.

Whether you’re in the mood for savory, cheesy, or sweet, keto bagels offer limitless flavor possibilities. All it takes is a few tweaks to the base dough and toppings.

Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep Tips

Refrigeration, Freezing & Microwaving Without Ruining Texture

Fresh out of the oven, your keto bagels are golden, chewy, and irresistible. But what if you want to batch-make them for the week—or the whole month? No problem. These bagels were made for meal prep, and when stored right, they stay just as delicious.

🔹 How to Store in the Fridge

• Allow bagels to cool completely before storing to avoid condensation.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap individually in parchment paper.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

This method keeps the crust tender and the interior firm without drying them out.

🔹 How to Freeze Keto Bagels

• Once cooled, place bagels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours.
• Transfer to a ziplock freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date. They’ll stay fresh for up to 6 months.

Frozen bagels can be reheated directly—no need to thaw.

🔹 Reheating Methods

The microwave makes them soft, but toasting brings back that fresh-baked texture.

If you’re planning a low-carb breakfast rotation, these bagels are an easy win. Make a batch on Sunday, refrigerate half, and freeze the rest for later.

How to Use Keto Bagels for Meal Prep or Keto Sandwiches

These aren’t just breakfast items—they’re a meal prep powerhouse. Thanks to their dense texture and mild flavor, keto bagels are excellent for all kinds of quick low-carb meals.

🥯 Breakfast Options:

• Toasted with cream cheese and smoked salmon
• Egg, avocado, and bacon breakfast sandwich
• Almond butter and cinnamon with keto banana slices

🥪 Lunch & Dinner Ideas:

• Keto turkey club with lettuce, tomato, and mayo
• Mini bagel pizzas topped with Quick Keto Pizza Sauce and mozzarella
• Grilled chicken with pesto and arugula

For busy mornings or on-the-go lunches, having pre-cut, frozen bagels means your meals are always just minutes away.

Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits of Keto Bagels

Low Carb, Low Calorie: What’s in One Keto Bagel?

Let’s get into the numbers. A lot of low-carb products claim to be keto—but only a few truly meet the mark. Fortunately, these keto bagels aren’t just compliant—they’re actually healthy for your keto goals.

Here’s the typical nutrition breakdown per homemade keto bagel (using almond flour and fathead dough):

Key Nutritional Takeaways:

• Low in net carbs: At only 2g net carbs, these bagels are perfect for a keto diet.
• High in fat: The healthy fats from cheese and almond flour support ketosis.
• Good protein source: 9g of protein per bagel makes them ideal for satiety and muscle maintenance.

Thanks to the combination of protein and fat, keto bagels keep you full longer than traditional options. And with no added sugars or starches, they’re blood-sugar friendly too.

Keto Bagels vs Regular Bagels: Nutritional Comparison Chart

Want proof that you’re making the healthier choice? Here’s how keto bagels stack up against traditional wheat-based bagels:

As you can see, keto bagels offer all the satiety with a fraction of the carbs, making them a clear win for low-carb lifestyles.

Health Benefits of Keto Bagels

Besides keeping your carb count low, these bagels offer several real health perks:

• Supports weight loss by minimizing blood sugar spikes
• Reduces cravings due to higher fat and protein content
• No processed flours or sugars, making them gut-friendly
• Naturally gluten-free, ideal for those with sensitivities
• Great for diabetics or anyone managing insulin resistance

Homemade keto bagels don’t just fit your macros—they can also become a sustainable, long-term replacement for traditional breads, without the bloat or brain fog.

More Keto Bread Recipes You Should Try

If you’ve fallen in love with keto bagels, you’re in for a treat—because low-carb baking has so much more to offer. From fluffy English muffins to warm banana bread, there’s no shortage of delicious keto-friendly bread alternatives that keep your carb count in check.

These recipes are perfect for anyone craving variety without compromising their ketogenic goals. Whether you’re looking for breakfast options, dinner sides, or even quick snacks, these low-carb breads have your back.

Keto English Muffin

Quick, microwave-ready, and perfect for breakfast sandwiches.

• Prep time: Under 2 minutes
• Made with almond flour or coconut flour
• Bakes into a light, sponge-like texture
• Best served toasted with butter or cream cheese

90-Second Keto Bread

No time? No problem.

• Ready in just 90 seconds using your microwave
• Uses almond flour, egg, baking powder, and butter
• Perfect sliced and toasted for a quick sandwich

Try pairing it with egg salad, tuna, or turkey for a fast low-carb lunch.

Coconut Flour Bread

Looking for a nut-free alternative? This one’s for you.

• Made with coconut flour, eggs, and butter
• Slightly sweet, ideal for breakfast or tea time
• Works well as a base for French toast or grilled cheese

The texture is light and springy, making it a great sandwich bread replacement.

Keto Banana Bread

All the flavor of banana bread—without the sugar or bananas.

• Uses banana extract and almond flour
• Moist, naturally sweetened with erythritol or monk fruit
• Ideal for snacking or low-carb desserts

Cloud Bread

Feather-light and practically carb-free.

• Made from eggs and cream cheese
• Zero net carbs per slice
• Great for burgers, sandwiches, or even as a base for pizza crust.

This recipe is a lifesaver if you’re watching carbs strictly or need a light bread option for dinner rolls.

These keto bread recipes make it easy to ditch traditional bread without missing a beat. Whether you’re prepping for the week, throwing together a quick breakfast, or baking for the whole family, there’s a keto bread option to fit the moment.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Keto Cheese Popcorn for a crunchy side or snack to go with any keto bread meal.

Conclusion: Why Keto Bagels Deserve a Place in Your Weekly Meal Plan

Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned low-carb veteran, keto bagels are one of those game-changing recipes that check every box: they’re fast, easy, delicious, and versatile. With just five main ingredients and zero yeast, you get a chewy, dense, and golden bagel that holds up to anything—eggs, cheese, meat, or jam.

From breakfast sandwiches to snack-time treats, these bagels can do it all while keeping your macros tight. Plus, with endless flavor variations and the ability to freeze for later, you’ll never feel deprived of bread again.

Don’t miss our Quick Keto Pizza Sauce for a savory sandwich twist or Keto Sweet Potato Casserole to serve with your bagel-based breakfast.

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