Introducing Keto Pizza Crust, you’ll find that it not only meets the dietary requirements but also delivers a deliciously satisfying base for your favorite pizza toppings. Made from ingredients like almond flour, cheese, and eggs, this crust offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s an ideal option for those seeking to indulge in pizza without straying from their low-carb goals, making it a valuable addition to any keto meal plan.
In the world of ketogenic diets, finding satisfying and flavorful foods that align with low-carb principles can be a challenge. The keto pizza crust offers a perfect solution for those craving the classic comfort of pizza while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. Traditional pizza crusts, made from wheat flour, are high in carbohydrates, which can hinder progress on a keto diet. This is where keto pizza crust shines as an excellent alternative, allowing pizza enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite dish without compromising their dietary goals.
Low-carb alternatives are crucial for anyone following a ketogenic diet, as they help maintain ketosis—the metabolic state where the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. By choosing low-carb options, individuals can enjoy diverse foods while staying within their carb limits, making the diet more sustainable and enjoyable. The keto pizza crust is a prime example of how you can transform beloved recipes into keto-friendly versions that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
Keto Pizza Crust Recipe
Ingredients
- Almond Flour (1 1/2 cups):
- Description: A low-carb, gluten-free flour made from finely ground almonds. It provides a nutty flavor and a texture similar to traditional flour.
- Nutritional Benefits: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while being low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for a ketogenic diet.
- Eggs (2 large):
- Description: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding structure to the dough. They also contribute to the crust’s rise and texture.
- Nutritional Benefits: High in protein and healthy fats, eggs also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded):
- Description: A soft, mild cheese that melts well and adds a cheesy flavor to the crust. It helps to create a pliable and slightly chewy texture.
- Nutritional Benefits: Low in carbohydrates and high in protein and calcium, making it a great fit for the keto diet.
- Cream Cheese (2 oz or about 1/4 cup, softened; optional):
- Description: Adds creaminess and helps in achieving a smooth, cohesive dough. It can also enhance the richness of the crust.
- Nutritional Benefits: Provides additional fat and creaminess while remaining low in carbohydrates.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon):
- Description: A leavening agent that helps the dough rise slightly, making the crust light and airy.
- Nutritional Benefits: Used in small amounts, it does not significantly impact the overall carbohydrate content of the crust.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon):
- Description: Adds a subtle garlic flavor, enhancing the taste of the crust without adding extra carbs.
- Nutritional Benefits: Provides flavor without affecting the low-carb nature of the recipe.
- Italian Seasoning (1/2 teaspoon):
- Description: A blend of dried herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme, contributing to the classic pizza flavor.
- Nutritional Benefits: Adds flavor with minimal carbs, making it a great way to enhance the crust’s taste.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon):
- Description: Enhances the overall flavor of the crust.
- Nutritional Benefits: Essential for taste; however, it should be used in moderation.
These ingredients come together to create a keto-friendly pizza crust that is both flavorful and satisfying, fitting perfectly into a low-carb diet while allowing you to enjoy a classic pizza experience.
Instructions
1. First Preheat and Prepare
-
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the crust.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the dough from sticking and helps achieve a crispy bottom.
2. Mix the Ingredients
-
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of almond flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seasonings.
- Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 oz (1/4 cup) of softened cream cheese together. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the cheeses are completely melted and smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Beat 2 large eggs in another bowl, then stir them into the melted cheese mixture. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring continuously until a cohesive dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more almond flour until it’s manageable.
3. Now Form the Dough
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- Shape the Dough: Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands or a rolling pin to flatten and shape the dough into a pizza crust. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. For a more uniform crust, lightly flour your hands or rolling pin with almond flour.
- Pre-Bake the Crust: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown. This pre-baking step helps firm up the crust and ensures it holds up well with toppings.
4. Cool and Top
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- Cool Slightly: Remove the pre-baked crust from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the crust to firm up further and makes it easier to add toppings.
- Add Toppings: Spread your choice of pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings evenly over the crust. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the toppings are cooked to your liking.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. This helps the crust set and makes it easier to cut.
Also, Try: Keto Cauliflower Pizza Crust, Keto Chicken Pizza Crust, Fathead Dough
Keto pizza crust is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pizza dough, crafted to suit the dietary preferences of those following a ketogenic lifestyle. This innovative crust typically uses ingredients like almond flour, mozzarella cheese, and eggs, replacing the high-carb wheat flour found in regular pizza crusts. The result is a delicious and satisfying base that holds up well under various toppings while keeping the carbohydrate count minimal. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a popular choice among keto enthusiasts looking to enjoy their favorite meals without compromising their dietary goals.
The importance of low-carb alternatives like keto pizza crust cannot be overstated, as they provide a way to enjoy beloved foods while adhering to a low-carb, high-fat diet. Traditional pizza crusts are loaded with carbs, which can spike blood sugar levels and disrupt ketosis, a metabolic state essential for the ketogenic diet. Keto pizza crust offers a delicious solution, allowing individuals to indulge in pizza without the guilt or negative impact on their diet. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, keto pizza crust proves that dietary restrictions don’t have to mean sacrificing taste and enjoyment.
Keto Pizza Crust Nutrition Info
Here is a basic nutrition table for the keto pizza crust recipe. Note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and exact quantities used.
| Nutrient |
Amount (per serving, based on 4 servings)
|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Total Fat | 32 g |
| – Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| – Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 140 mg |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| – Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrates | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Almond Flour | 1 1/2 cups (144 g) | 800 kcal | 72 g | 6 g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 24 g | 12 g | 2 g | 24 g |
| Eggs | 2 large (136 g) | 140 kcal | 10 g | 3 g | 370 mg | 140 mg | 2 g | 0 g | 2 g | 12 g |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1 1/2 cups (170 g) | 560 kcal | 42 g | 26 g | 120 mg | 480 mg | 4 g | 0 g | 2 g | 36 g |
| Cream Cheese | 2 oz (57 g) | 100 kcal | 10 g | 6 g | 30 mg | 90 mg | 2 g | 0 g | 1 g | 2 g |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon (4 g) | 6 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 1 mg | 1 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon (1.5 g) | 5 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 1 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g |
| Italian Seasoning | 1/2 teaspoon (1.5 g) | 5 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 0 mg | 1 g | 1 g | 0 g | 0 g |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) | 0 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 580 mg | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g |
Tips for Best Results
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps in achieving a smoother dough and better incorporation of ingredients.
- Proper Cheese Melting: Melt the mozzarella and cream cheese thoroughly and mix well to ensure a uniform dough. This prevents lumps and helps in creating a cohesive, easy-to-work-with dough.
- Check Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more almond flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too dry, a small amount of water can help.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make it easier to handle and transfer the crust.
- Pre-Bake the Crust: Bake the crust until it’s just starting to turn golden brown before adding toppings. This step ensures the crust holds up well under the weight of the toppings and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Avoid Overloading Toppings: Be mindful of the quantity and moisture content of your toppings. Excessively wet or heavy toppings can make the crust soggy. Pre-cook or drain high-moisture ingredients like vegetables.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allow the pre-baked crust to cool slightly before adding toppings and baking again. This helps the crust firm up and makes it easier to slice.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to adjust herbs and spices to suit your taste. Adding ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, or extra Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor of the crust.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the crust in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the crust wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
- Reheat for Crispiness: Reheat leftover crust in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain its crispiness. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Following these tips will help you achieve a delicious, perfectly crispy keto pizza crust every time!
Keto Pizza Crust Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls For combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons To measure out ingredients accurately.
- Baking sheet or pizza stone For baking the pizza crust.
- Parchment Paper To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
- Rolling Pin (optional): For flattening the dough evenly.
- Oven To bake the crust.
Ingredients
- 1½ Cup Almond Flour
- 2 Large Eggs
- ½ Cup Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 Oz Cream Cheese (optional)
- 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- ¼ Teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Mix 1 1/2 cups almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl.
- Prepare Wet Mixture: Beat 2 eggs. Melt 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella and 2 oz softened cream cheese together, then mix with the beaten eggs.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Shape and Pre-Bake: Spread the dough on the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown.
- Cool and Top: Let the crust cool slightly, then add your favorite toppings and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Cheese Texture: For a smoother dough, ensure the mozzarella and cream cheese are fully melted and well combined before mixing with the eggs.
- Almond Flour Variability: Almond flour can vary in fineness. If your dough seems too dry or too wet, adjust with a bit more almond flour or a small amount of water to achieve the right consistency.
- Dough Handling: The dough can be sticky. Using parchment paper can help in shaping and transferring the crust. You can also lightly flour your hands or rolling pin with almond flour to prevent sticking.
- Pre-Baking: Make sure to pre-bake the crust until it’s just starting to turn golden brown. This helps to create a sturdier base that holds up better with toppings.
- Toppings: Be mindful of adding too many wet or heavy toppings, as they can make the crust soggy. Pre-cook any high-moisture vegetables if possible.
- Storage: If you have leftover crust, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked or unbaked crust. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking or reheating.
- Customizations: Feel free to adjust herbs and spices according to your taste. You can add garlic, onion powder, or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor.
Delicious Topping Ideas
- Classic Margherita
- Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of low-carb tomato sauce.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese.
- Fresh Basil: Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Olive Oil: Drizzle a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Pepperoni and Cheese
- Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of low-carb tomato sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Cover with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Pepperoni: Top with slices of pepperoni.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Veggie Supreme
- Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of low-carb tomato sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bell Peppers: Thinly sliced red, green, or yellow bell peppers.
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms.
- Olives: Sliced black or green olives.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach leaves.
- Onions: Thinly sliced red onions.
- BBQ Chicken
- Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce: Spread a thin layer of sugar-free BBQ sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced cooked chicken.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onions.
- Cilantro: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro after baking.
- Pesto and Prosciutto
- Pesto Sauce: Spread a layer of keto-friendly pesto sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Prosciutto: Thin slices of prosciutto.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes.
- Arugula: Fresh arugula leaves added after baking.
- Buffalo Chicken
- Buffalo Sauce: Spread a thin layer of buffalo sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced cooked chicken mixed with more buffalo sauce.
- Celery: Thinly sliced celery added after baking.
- Ranch Dressing: Drizzle with ranch dressing after baking.
- Mediterranean
- Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of low-carb tomato sauce.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese.
- Olives: Sliced Kalamata olives.
- Artichoke Hearts: Chopped artichoke hearts.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Oregano: Sprinkle with dried oregano.
- Four Cheese
- Tomato Sauce: Spread a thin layer of low-carb tomato sauce (optional).
- Mozzarella Cheese: Add shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Gorgonzola: Crumbled Gorgonzola or blue cheese.
- Ricotta: Dollops of ricotta cheese.
Feel free to mix and match these toppings to suit your taste preferences. The keto pizza crust provides a versatile base for a wide range of flavorful combinations!
FAQ
What is keto pizza crust?
Keto pizza crust is a low-carb alternative to traditional pizza crust, designed specifically for those following a ketogenic diet. Unlike conventional pizza crusts made from wheat flour, which are high in carbohydrates, keto pizza crust uses ingredients like almond flour, cheese, and eggs to significantly reduce the carb content. This modification allows individuals on a keto diet to enjoy the familiar texture and flavor of pizza while staying within their carbohydrate limits.
The key to keto pizza crust lies in its ability to provide a satisfying, pizza-like base without the carbs. Almond flour serves as the primary ingredient, offering a nutty flavor and a texture similar to traditional dough. Combined with melted cheese and eggs, which help bind the dough and add richness, keto pizza crust delivers a delicious and flexible foundation for a variety of low-carb toppings. This makes it a versatile option for anyone seeking to enjoy pizza while adhering to a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
Yes, you can use coconut flour instead of almond flour in keto pizza crust, but there are some important considerations. Coconut flour is much more absorbent than almond flour, so you’ll need to use less of it—typically about one-quarter to one-third of the amount of almond flour called for in the recipe. This means that if a recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of almond flour, you’d use roughly 1/2 to 1/2 cup of coconut flour instead. Additionally, because coconut flour absorbs more moisture, you might need to increase the amount of liquid or eggs in the recipe to achieve the right dough consistency.
The texture and flavor of the crust will also change when using coconut flour. Coconut flour tends to impart a subtle coconut flavor and can result in a slightly denser, crumbly texture compared to almond flour. It’s important to mix the dough thoroughly and allow it to rest for a few minutes to help the flour fully absorb the liquids. Experimenting with small batches can help you find the right balance and adjust the recipe to your taste and texture preferences.
Is this crust suitable for those with nut allergies?
No, this keto pizza crust is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies because it uses almond flour, which is derived from almonds. Almond flour is a key ingredient in the recipe, providing the base for the crust’s texture and structure. Those with nut allergies should avoid consuming almond flour and any products containing it to prevent allergic reactions.
For a nut-free alternative, you can use seed-based flours such as sunflower seed flour or flaxseed meal. These alternatives can offer similar binding and textural properties as almond flour but without the nut content. Adjustments in the recipe may be necessary to achieve the right consistency and taste, but these substitutions can help create a delicious keto pizza crust suitable for those with nut allergies.
How do I store leftover keto pizza crust?
To store leftover keto pizza crust, first ensure it has cooled completely to room temperature. Place the crust in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Store the container or wrapped crust in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the crust. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Place the wrapped crust in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw the crust in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven to restore its crispiness.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!