8 Ketogenic-Friendly Recipes to Bring You Comfort and Joy This Holiday Season

Celebs, doctors, and yes, even Well+Good's own editors extol the mind and body benefits of the high-fat, low-carb ketogenic diet. But what does eating keto look like during the holidays, when carb-y comfort foods (traditionally) reign supreme? Incredibly delicious, if ketogenic food bloggers have anything to say about it.

You don't have to miss out on any of the holiday cheer at the dinner (or dessert!) table—even if that means passing on the mashed potatoes this year.

Keep reading for 8 ketogenic holiday recipes that will make your meals merry and bright.

1. Cinnamon roll "oatmeal"

This take on "noatmeal" swaps keto-unfriendly oats for a concoction of chia seeds, flax seed meal, and riced cauliflower. Plus, warming spices like vanilla, nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon make this breakfast taste like hygge in a bowl.

Get the recipe: cinnamon roll "oatmeal" 

2. Carrot and thyme mini loaves

Not only is the carrot and thyme combo delish, but eggs, olive oil, and flax seeds keep these loaves chock-full of healthy fats and proteins. Sounds like the perfect make-ahead breakfast for super-busy mornings.

Get the recipe: Carrot and thyme mini loaves

3. Cinnamon keto "granola"

Almonds, coconut, pepitas, and chia seeds are just handful of the ingredients that make this take on granola absolutely delish. Plus, cinnamon and vanilla extract help to warm up those frosty mornings. Pass the almond milk, please!

Get the recipe: cinnamon keto "granola"

4. Sweet and crunchy candied pecans

Candied pecans just scream holiday treat, IMO. This recipe swaps run of the mill brown sugar for xylitol (a sugar alcohol) and blackstrap molasses. Serve these during cocktail hour at your next dinner party and watch them disappear before you can teach your guests to say "ketogenic" (with a long "e" sound).

Get the recipe: Sweet and crunchy candied pecans

5. Low-carb slow cooker vegetable beef soup

A warm, hearty stew is arguably one of wintertime's better aspects. (Call me crazy, but I don't much care for sub-freezing temps and 4 p.m. sunsets.) This one is loaded with keto-friendly veggies and a savory mix of herbs and spices like garlic, rosemary, and thyme.

Get the recipe: low-carb slow cooker vegetable beef soup

6. Protein-rich and creamy lentil soup

If your palate is suffering from pumpkin-spice fatigue, break out of your rut with this vegan lentil soup. The ginger, curry, cumin, and red ball chilis are sure to warm you up a little extra.

Get the recipe: protein-rich and creamy lentil soup

7. Ginger-spiced pork roast

Finding a festive take on such a traditional main course can be challenging, but this recipe delivers by combining bloat-fighting ginger, orange zest, and cloves to create an aromatic spice rub.

Get the recipe: ginger-spiced pork roast 

8. Cinnamon orange soufflé

A truly decadent dessert, this cinnamon orange soufflé is the stuff chocoholics' dreams are made of. Cocoa powder, orange zest, maple, and allspice make this rich dessert festive yet sophisticated.

Get the recipe: cinnamon orange souffle 

Originally published November 18, 2018. Updated November 13, 2020.

Join Well+Good's Cook With Us Facebook group for more healthy holiday dessert recipes.

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