Carnivore Crunchy Cheddar Puffs Recipe
These puffs are made with just a few simple ingredients, making them super easy to prepare while giving you a satisfying, crunchy snack that stays true to the carnivore lifestyle.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (use sharp or mild, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated, adds a salty, umami flavor)
- 1 large egg (acts as a binder to hold everything together)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (optional, for seasoning)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds a smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon coconut flour or almond flour (this is optional but helps with texture)
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (helps puff up the cheese and makes the texture lighter)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. If you’re using coconut or almond flour to help with texture, add it now. Stir everything together to combine.
Next, crack the egg into the mixture and add the baking powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated into a dough-like consistency. The cheese should be slightly sticky, and the egg should help everything hold together.
Step 3: Shape the Puffs
Take small portions of the cheese mixture and roll them into small balls or oval-shaped puffs. You can use your hands or a small spoon for this. The size can vary, but aim for small, bite-sized pieces. Place the puffs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little bit of space between each one.
Step 4: Bake the Puffs
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent them from burning. The puffs should puff up and become crispy on the outside while staying cheesy on the inside.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once they are baked, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. As they cool, they will continue to crisp up. Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for later snacking.
Nutritional Benefits:
These Carnivore Crunchy Cheddar Puffs are a perfect snack for anyone on a carnivore or keto diet. The cheddar and parmesan provide a healthy dose of protein and fat, while keeping the carb count incredibly low. Each puff is rich in calcium, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, making it a nourishing treat that’s also deliciously satisfying.
Customization Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. You could use mozzarella for a more stringy, cheesy texture or Gouda for a smoky flavor.
- Add-ins: If you want to customize your puffs further, you could add a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or thyme, or even a little bit of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Shape Variations: Instead of rolling the mixture into balls, you can shape them into little rounds or disks if you want a more cracker-like texture.
Serving Suggestions:
These crunchy cheddar puffs are perfect as a snack on their own, or you can pair them with some dipping sauce like ranch dressing, a creamy dip, or even some spicy mustard for added flavor. They also make an excellent crunchy topping for salads or soups, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts:
These Carnivore Crunchy Cheddar Puffs are the ultimate low-carb snack that satisfies your crunch cravings while keeping you aligned with the carnivore diet. They’re full of rich, cheesy flavor and have the perfect balance of protein and fat to keep you full and satisfied. Whether you’re eating them as a snack or using them as a crunchy topping, these puffs are sure to become a favorite in your recipe