Chocolate Cookies for a Keto Diet

Just because you're on the keto diet doesn't mean you can't indulge, especially with treats like cookies—yes, even chocolate ones. With a bit of ingenuity in ingredient choices, you can bake delicious keto-friendly cookies that satisfy cravings while staying true to the diet. This recipe offers an easy and delightful solution for chocolate enthusiasts, whether they're dieting or not.

The ketogenic diet involves low carb and higher fat intake. It's not a fit for everyone and should ideally be done with medical supervision, but it doesn't have to feel overly restrictive. Unlike some complex keto recipes, this one relies on easy-to-find ingredients, making the baking process straightforward.

Cookies typically contain flour and sugar as primary carb sources, both of which have keto-friendly substitutes. Almond flour, akin to wheat flour in properties and taste-neutral, serves as an excellent baking alternative.

Sugar alternatives tailored for keto diets have been available for a while. Swerve, a sweetener specifically designed for keto, can be swapped in for granulated sugar in equal amounts. It's less intense than stevia and works wonderfully in baking. Another good option is monk fruit. Experiment with various sugar-free sweeteners to find the perfect match for your taste and baking requirements when making these keto chocolate cookies.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 3/4 cup (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter, at room temperature

• 3/4 cup sugar-free sweetener

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup sugar-free chocolate chips

• Sea salt, garnish

Steps to Make It

01.  Prepare by gathering the necessary ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two rimmed sheet pans with parchment paper.

02.  Combine almond flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda in a bowl, whisking until thoroughly mixed. Set aside.

03.  In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the unsalted butter and sweetener until lightened and fluffy.

04.  Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture and combine well.

05.  Gradually stir in the flour mixture until just combined, then gently fold in the chocolate chips.

06.  Scoop out portions of approximately 1 1/2 ounces and place them on the prepared sheet pans. Keep them a few inches apart as they will spread while baking.

07.  Slightly flatten the top of each cookie and sprinkle a touch of sea salt on them.

08.  Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until they're set. When done, the cookies will be soft but will firm up a bit as they cool. Enjoy your freshly baked treats!

Tips

• Finding low-carb ingredients is becoming more convenient, often found in supermarkets, health food stores, and readily available online.
• You can keep these cookies fresh for up to three days by storing them in an airtight container.