Carnivore Crunchy Cheddar Puffs Recipe
These Carnivore Crunchy Cheddar Puffs are a delicious, zero-carb, and protein-packed snack that fits perfectly into a carnivore or keto diet. Made with just a few simple ingredients like cheddar cheese and egg whites, they’re the perfect crispy, crunchy treat when you’re craving something savory. Here’s how you can make them!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (use full-fat, not reduced-fat)
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional for extra crunch)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Whisk egg whites:
In a medium bowl, whisk the egg whites until they are frothy. You can use a hand whisk or an electric mixer for this step. Whisking the egg whites will help create a light and airy texture for the puffs.
3. Mix the cheese and seasonings:
In a separate large bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese with the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and baking powder (if using). Stir everything together until evenly distributed. The baking powder helps give the puffs more crunch.
4. Fold in the egg whites:
Gently fold the frothy egg whites into the cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites too much; you want to keep as much air in the mixture as possible to ensure they puff up during baking.
5. Form the puffs:
Spoon the cheese mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart. You can make them as large or as small as you like, but the smaller puffs will be crunchier.
6. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheddar puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-baking.
7. Cool and serve:
Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling. This allows them to crisp up even more.
These crunchy cheddar puffs are perfect for snacking, as a side dish, or even as an appetizer. They’re high in protein, rich in cheese flavor, and completely carb-free, making them a great choice for those on a carnivore or keto diet.
Tips:
- If you want a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Make sure to use shredded cheese, as pre-grated cheese can contain anti-caking agents that may affect the texture of the puffs.
- Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container for a few days. They can also be reheated in the oven to bring back their crunch!
Enjoy your Carnivore Crunchy Cheddar Puffs!