If you’ve been living that low carb or keto life, you know that giving up bread—especially bagels—can feel like a dealbreaker. But what if you didn’t have to? This guide will show you how to make low carb bagels using real ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, mozzarella, and cream cheese. We’ll dive into the exact recipe, show you pro baking tips, compare store-bought options like Royo and Costco bagels, and answer your most common questions.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Grilled Chicken Tenders to pair with these keto bagels for a protein-packed lunch.

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Why Low Carb Bagels Are a Game-Changer

The Problem with Traditional Bagels

Let’s face it—traditional bagels are carb bombs. A single plain bagel can pack 45 to 60 grams of carbs, which is practically your full day’s allowance on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. And don’t even think about flavored ones like cinnamon raisin or everything bagels—they’re even worse.

Beyond the carbs, most bagels are made with refined wheat flour, contributing to blood sugar spikes, cravings, and that dreaded energy crash by 10 AM.

What Makes Low Carb Bagels Different?

Low carb bagels replace high-carb flour with alternatives like blanched almond flour or coconut flour—two keto superstars. Instead of yeast, this dough uses a combo of melted cheese and eggs to bind and rise. The result is chewy, golden, and unbelievably satisfying—without the guilt.

These bagels:

• Are gluten-free and grain-free
• Contain only 2–4g net carbs each
• Take just 30 minutes to make
• Taste shockingly like the real thing
• Work well with all your favorite toppings

Discover great ideas like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to turn these into satisfying full meals.

Key Ingredients in the Best Low Carb Bagels Recipe

Almond Flour vs Coconut Flour: Pros & Cons

One of the main decisions when making low carb bagels is choosing between almond flour and coconut flour. Each option brings a unique texture and taste, and understanding the differences can help you pick the version that works best for your lifestyle.

Almond Flour Version:

• Richer, nutty flavor
• Softer crumb and more moisture
• Higher in calories and fat
• Ideal for those who enjoy a classic chewy bagel texture

You’ll need 1½ cups of blanched almond flour, not almond meal, for the best results. This version is also slightly easier to work with when forming bagels.

Coconut Flour Version:

• Lighter, slightly sweet taste
• More fiber and fewer calories per serving
• Requires more eggs to bind properly (3 eggs vs 2)
• Absorbs moisture quickly, creating a denser texture

You only need ½ cup of coconut flour due to its high absorbency. While it’s more affordable, it can lead to a drier bagel if not mixed properly with the cheese.

Both versions are grain-free, gluten-free, and keto-friendly. So the choice really comes down to personal preference and nutritional goals.

Looking for alternatives to bagel bases? Don’t miss our Zepbound Recipe for a low-carb hack to jumpstart your fat-burning routine.

Cheese is the Secret: Why Mozzarella & Cream Cheese Matter

Low carb bagels get their unique dough from an unusual ingredient combination: cheese. Specifically, a mix of:

• Shredded mozzarella cheese (2½ cups)
• Cream cheese (2 oz, cubed)

Why Mozzarella?

Mozzarella contributes the stretch and cohesion necessary to mimic the chewy texture of a classic bagel. It’s essential to use either pre-shredded mozzarella or hard mozzarella blocks. Soft, fresh mozzarella doesn’t work well—it adds too much moisture and won’t create a cohesive dough.

Why Cream Cheese?

Cream cheese contributes a creamy texture and helps create a smoother dough. When melted with the mozzarella, it creates a stretchy, pliable base that’s shockingly similar to yeast dough without the carbs.

Both cheeses are naturally low in carbohydrates and high in fat, making them perfect for keto recipes.

If you’re short on time, you can even prep the cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to mix with dry ingredients.

Discover great ideas like Homemade Mounjaro Recipe to enhance your keto lifestyle with homemade, science-backed support.

How to Make Low Carb Bagels at Home (Step-by-Step Recipe)

Required Ingredients & Equipment

Making low carb bagels at home is surprisingly simple. You only need a few wholesome ingredients and basic kitchen tools to whip up a golden, chewy batch in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re going for the almond flour or coconut flour version, both options deliver that satisfying bagel feel—without the carbs.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Almond Flour Version	Coconut Flour Version
Flour	1½ cups almond flour	½ cup coconut flour
Baking Powder	1 tbsp	1 tbsp
Eggs	2 large	3 large
Mozzarella Cheese	2½ cups, shredded	2½ cups, shredded
Cream Cheese	2 oz, cubed	2 oz, cubed
Optional Toppings	Everything seasoning, sesame seeds	Same as left

Essential Tools:

• Food processor (or a strong arm for kneading)
• Microwave or stovetop double boiler
• Oven preheated to 375°F
• Parchment-lined baking tray

Pro Tip: Always use pre-shredded mozzarella or hard block cheese for your low carb bagels. Soft mozzarella contains too much moisture and won’t help the dough bind properly.

Looking for ways to enjoy your bagels guilt-free? Don’t miss our Grilled Chicken Tenders to create a delicious high-protein, low-carb sandwich.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Almond & Coconut Versions

1. Preheat & Prep
Heat your oven to 375°F. To make cleanup a breeze, cover your baking tray with parchment paper before use.

2. Blend the Dry Mix
In a food processor (or mixing bowl), combine your flour (almond or coconut) and baking powder until fully mixed.

3. Add Eggs
Crack in the eggs—2 for almond flour or 3 for coconut flour—and blend until smooth.

4. Melt the Cheeses
In a separate bowl, melt the mozzarella and cream cheese in the microwave for 2 minutes. Stir halfway for even melting. Prefer stovetop? Use a double boiler instead.

5. Combine & Form Dough
While the cheese is still hot, add it to the flour-egg mix. Quickly process until a stretchy dough forms. If kneading by hand, expect stickiness—just keep kneading and reheat slightly if needed.

6. Shape Your Low Carb Bagels
Divide the dough into 6 parts. Roll each into a rope and connect ends to form a bagel shape. Place each on your tray.

7. Add Seasonings
Optional but flavorful: Lightly mist each bagel with cooking spray, sprinkle with sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning, and gently press toppings in.

8. Bake & Cool
Bake for 15 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Let your low carb bagels cool at least 15 minutes to allow the centers to firm up properly.

Expert Tips for Perfect Keto Bagels Every Time

Handling Sticky Dough: Microwave vs Kneading Techniques

Making low carb bagels from scratch comes with its quirks—especially when dealing with the cheese-based dough. If you’re not using a food processor, don’t worry. Here are the best ways to handle it:

• Use Hot Cheese: Melted mozzarella and cream cheese blend better when warm. It’s the key to a cohesive dough.
• Reheat if Needed: Dough stiffening up? Pop it in the microwave for 15 seconds. That’ll soften it back up.
• Work Quickly: Knead fast while the cheese is still hot to get the best texture.
• Sticky Hands? Wash your hands midway through the kneading process to reset and refocus.

Kneading may take a few tries, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making these keto bagels in your sleep.

How to Get Tall, Fluffy, Golden Bagels

Want your low carb bagels to look bakery-worthy? Use these quick tips:

• Always include baking powder—it’s the only leavening agent used here.
• Use a food processor for better texture and airiness.
• Roll evenly: Uniform dough ropes = even baking.
• Check your oven early: Every oven is different, so check for golden brown at 13 minutes in.

Need something savory to go with these bagels? Discover great ideas like our Fried Chicken Liver Recipes—a surprisingly keto-friendly favorite.

Nutrition Breakdown — Are These Bagels Truly Keto?

Macronutrient Comparison: Almond vs Coconut Flour Version

You may be wondering: Are low carb bagels actually keto-approved? The answer is yes—but depending on your ingredients, the macronutrients can vary. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:

Nutrient	Almond Flour Bagel (1 of 6)	Coconut Flour Bagel (1 of 6)
Calories	275	240
Net Carbs	3g	2g
Protein	16g	14g
Fat	22g	20g
Fiber	2g	5g

Key Takeaways:

• Almond flour versions are slightly higher in calories and fat but provide more protein.
• Coconut flour versions offer more fiber and fewer calories, making them ideal for low-calorie keto days.

Both versions stay well under the 5g net carb rule—a critical point for anyone following a strict ketogenic protocol.

Want to elevate your healthy eating? Check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta—a keto comfort dish that pairs beautifully with these bagels.

Calorie Count, Net Carbs, and Protein Content

To break it down simply:

• One almond flour bagel = 3g net carbs
• One coconut flour bagel = 2g net carbs
• Both types give you over 14g of protein, helping you stay full longer
• They’re also high in healthy fats from cheese and nut flours

These low carb bagels make a great replacement for high-carb breakfast items like toast, English muffins, or store-bought bagels, which can run 40–50g of carbs per serving.

They also store well—just refrigerate in a sealed bag for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven for best texture.

Customization Ideas for Your Low Carb Bagels

Toppings: Sesame, Everything Bagel, Cheese & More

One of the best parts about low carb bagels is how customizable they are. Whether you’re craving something savory, nutty, or cheesy, there’s a topping for that.

Popular Low Carb Toppings:

• Everything bagel seasoning (garlic, onion, sesame, poppy)
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese
• Dried herbs like oregano or basil
• Crushed pork rinds for a crunchier finish

How to Apply:
After shaping your bagels, lightly spray them with cooking spray, then sprinkle your desired toppings and gently press them into the dough before baking.

If you’re short on time and want something fast, don’t miss our Tropical Green Smoothie—a refreshing low carb breakfast drink to go with your bagel.

Add-ins: Jalapeños, Garlic, Herbs, and Seeds

Want to get even more creative? Add flavor directly into your dough.

Low Carb Bagel Add-In Ideas:

• Jalapeño slices + cheddar cheese for a spicy kick
• Minced garlic or roasted garlic cloves for aroma
• Dill, rosemary, or Italian herbs for an herbal twist
• Chia or flaxseeds to boost omega-3s
• Sun-dried tomatoes (unsweetened) for a Mediterranean vibe

Important Tip:
Add-ins should be dry and finely chopped to prevent adding moisture to the dough. Avoid wet ingredients like olives unless they’re dried and chopped well.

Low carb bagels are also an excellent way to use up leftover ingredients creatively—just toss them in and bake your way to a brand-new flavor profile.

Where to Buy Low Carb or Keto Bagels (If You Don’t Want to Cook)

Best Store-Bought Keto Bagels (Costco, Aldi, Amazon)

Not everyone has time to bake from scratch—and that’s okay. If you’re on the hunt for low carb bagels that fit your busy lifestyle, here are some popular, keto-friendly store-bought options:

Brand	Net Carbs	Where to Buy	Notes
Carbonaut	2g	Whole Foods, Amazon	Gluten-free, soft texture
ThinSlim Foods	1g	Online only	Dense texture, very low net carbs
Keto Culture	4g	Walmart	Sweetener-free, toasts well
Great Low Carb Bread Co.	2g	Amazon	Chewier, closer to traditional bagels
Costco Keto Bagels	5g	Select Costco stores	Moderate carb count, decent flavor

Many keto dieters love Costco’s keto bagels for their price and availability, though they contain slightly more carbs than homemade versions. Always read the ingredient label and look for fiber-rich flours like almond, oat fiber, or flax.

Are Royo Bagels Really Low Carb? Truth Revealed

Royo is one of the trending names in the keto bakery space, often praised for delivering “low carb bread that tastes like real bread.” But how do their bagels measure up?

• Net Carbs per Bagel: 3g
• Ingredients: Whole wheat, resistant starch, oat fiber
• Texture: Light and soft
• Taste: Slightly sweet but close to regular bagels
• Glycemic Impact: Very low

So, are Royo bagels really low carb? Yes—but they are not keto in the strictest sense. While they’re a great fit for low-carb diets, they contain wheat and starches that may not work for gluten-free or clean keto eaters.

If you’re following a more flexible low carb lifestyle, Royo is a solid option. If you’re on strict keto, stick to homemade or almond flour-based brands.

FAQs About Low Carb Bagels

Conclusion: Enjoy Low Carb Bagels Without Compromise

Low carb bagels aren’t just a trend—they’re a smart, satisfying way to stick to your keto or low carb goals without giving up the comfort of bread. Whether you prefer the nutty richness of almond flour or the fiber-packed lightness of coconut flour, this simple recipe makes it easy to recreate a classic bagel experience right in your own kitchen.

With just a few real ingredients and some basic tools, you can enjoy bagels that are golden on the outside, chewy in the middle, and totally guilt-free. Add your favorite toppings, customize them with herbs or cheese, or toast them up with a thick layer of cream cheese or avocado.

No matter your lifestyle, low carb bagels are versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, or a snack on the go.

Don’t miss our Best Japanese Mounjaro Recipe to pair with these bagels for an energy-boosting, fat-burning combo meal that supports your keto journey.