Indulging in scrumptious desserts while on a keto diet has never been easier! Our Keto No-Bake Cream Cheese Bars promise the perfect balance between taste and health. They are a delightful treat for anyone looking to cut down on carbs but not on flavor. Imagine creamy layers topped with a rich, nutty crust—all without turning on the oven!
Ingredients
To make these sumptuous bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons erythritol or preferred keto sweetener
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered erythritol
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- 9×9 inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Keto No-Bake Cream Cheese Bars – Step By Step
Step 1:
Create the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, cocoa powder, melted coconut oil, and erythritol. Mix until you get a crumbly texture that binds together when pressed. This crust serves as the delicious base for your bars, full of nutty and chocolatey flavors.
Step 2:
Press the Crust: Transfer the crumb mixture into a 9×9 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Use a spatula to evenly press down the mixture until firm. This sets the perfect base for layering the cream cheese mixture.
Step 3:
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered erythritol and vanilla extract, continuing to mix for an extra fluffy topping.
Step 4:
Whip It: Pour in the heavy cream and whip the mixture on high speed. This creates a creamy yet light texture, ensuring your bars are rich but not too heavy.
Step 5:
Layer the Dish: Spread the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing with a spatula for an even layer. Ensure it fully covers the base to get that delicious bite in every mouthful.
How to Serve Keto No-Bake Cream Cheese Bars
After refrigerating for at least 2 hours, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into equal squares. Serve them chilled, perhaps with a sprinkle of cocoa or garnish with fresh mint leaves to bring out the flavors.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best results, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can experiment with flavors by adding lemon zest or swapping vanilla for almond extract.
Go High Protein: Power Up Your Bars
For those looking to boost their protein intake, consider adding a scoop of unflavored protein powder to the cream cheese mixture. This will add a subtle flavor while packing more satiating protein into each bite. Adjust the sweetness accordingly, as protein powders can vary in taste.
Embrace Low Carb Luxury: Guilt-Free Indulgence
Our recipe is already low carb, but you can further reduce carb content by replacing any sweetener with stevia or other sugar substitutes. Make these bars part of your standard keto repertoire and enjoy guilt-free indulgence whenever you’re craving something sweet.
Storage Instructions
Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 5 days, making them ideal for a make-ahead dessert option. You can also freeze any leftover bars for up to a month; simply thaw before serving.
FAQs
- Can I use other nuts for the crust?
- Yes, you can use pecans or walnuts, but grind them finely for a similar texture.
- Can I freeze these bars?
- Absolutely! They freeze well in a sealed container for up to a month. Thaw them out by moving them to the fridge before eating.
- What sweetener should I use?
- Any keto-approved sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit can work. Adjust the amount based on personal taste.
- How can I ensure my cream cheese layer is smooth?
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened, and beat it well to avoid lumps before adding other ingredients.
- Can I add flavors to the cream cheese mixture?
- Definitely! Try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder or citrus zest for a flavor twist.
The Sweet Finale: Sharing Is Caring!
There you have it, a delicious and easy Keto No-Bake Cream Cheese Bars recipe that proves dessert can be both tasty and keto-friendly. The next time you have a craving or host friends, whip up a batch and share the joy! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and tag us on social media. Your feedback keeps us inspired to create even more tasty treats for you!