Christmas Dinner Ideas: Elevate Your 2024 Holiday Feast with Delicious Inspiration

Last Updated on February 20, 2024 by Ryan

The holiday season is all about togetherness, and nothing brings people closer than a comforting meal. These festive Christmas dinner ideas are made with a healthy twist but do not lack timeless, tried-and-true favorites. Whether you are hosting the whole family or cooking for two, these Christmas dinner ideas are sure to impress your loved ones.

If you’re on the keto diet, it’s no secret that a lot of holiday goodies are off-limits. But don’t worry—we’ve put together a list of keto-friendly recipes too to guarantee a tasty and happy holiday feast, ending with a decadent dessert. That’s right – there are tons of keto Christmas recipes that are delightful, whether you have a big sweet tooth or need a filling and scrumptious meal for Christmas dinner. The best part is, that these keto Christmas recipes are so delicious that the entire family can enjoy them.

What are you waiting for? Bust out your apron, and let’s get cookin’!

Healthy & Festive Christmas Menu Checklist

Seasonal Produce: Colorful in-season produce is a must for adding flair to your holiday spread while also upping your nutrition to include fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Late fall and winter produce include Brussels sprouts, cranberries, green beans, parsnips, potatoes, and various kinds of winter squash like acorn squash and pumpkin.

Protein: Protein is often the hero of Christmas dinner. It’s a chance to serve something outside the box that you would not typically have on a regular weeknight. Try unique and decadent options like lobster, prime rib, scallops, or trout. Lobster is a good source of vitamin B12, while prime rib provides bioavailable heme iron.

Carbohydrates: Focus on whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and farro to accompany your healthy Christmas dinner ideas. If you want to go the grain-free and naturally gluten-free route, you can also swap grains for starchy root vegetables like sweet potato or winter squash.

Healthy baking essentials: The Christmas season is incomplete without baked goods. Stock up on better-for-you flours like whole-wheat and brown rice as well as some naturally gluten-free options, including coconut and almond. Dark chocolate chips and superfood ingredients like goji berries and hemp seeds are also great staples to have on hand; they’re perfect for making cookies or homemade chocolate bark.

Festive beverages: Keep sparkling wine and 100 percent fruit juice on hand to whip up some simple and festive cocktails or mocktails. This resulting combination is lower in calories than your typical alcoholic libation but does not skimp on either taste or holiday flair.

And without further ado, here are some awesome and healthy Christmas dinner ideas that are bound to make your whole family (or entourage of friends) happy

Christmas Cocktails

Call me old school, but I love a themed cocktail. It’s just a lovely way to start such a delightful night. Let me introduce you to my personal “go-to” drink I create at all parties: the Zesty Winter Margarita. This drink is always a hit and one that’s adaptable. Also, remember that you need to drink responsibly.

Sparkling Pomegranate Cocktails

Cheers to the most wonderful time of the year with these four-ingredient sparkling pomegranate cocktails. Not only do these look festive, but they are lower in sugar than your traditional cocktails since they are made with 100% no-sugar-added pomegranate juice, which is also a rich source of antioxidants. 

• Serves: 2
• Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 cup 100% no sugar added pomegranate juice
• 1 cup sparkling wine
• 2 tbsp pomegranate arils
• 2 sprigs of rosemary

Directions: 

Pour pomegranate juice into two champagne flutes followed by sparkling wine. Add pomegranate arils and rosemary sprigs. 

Red (Taylor’s Version) Cocktail

Toast to the holidays with a Taylor Swift-inspired cranberry cocktail! This four-ingredient sparkling delight is not only visually festive but also a healthier option, made with 100% no-sugar-added cranberry juice rich in antioxidants. Cheers to a dazzling and guilt-free celebration!

• Serves: 2
• Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients: 

• 2 oz of vanilla or whipped cream vodka
• Cranberry Juice
• Champagne, ginger beer, sprite… something with carbonation
• Cinnamon Sugar

Directions:

Mix vodka and the amount of cranberry juice you want. Pour over some ice. Add no more than an ounce of Sprite or whatever you choose as your carbonated drink. Sprinkle some cinnamon sugar into your drink for the finishing touch.

Iced Irish Coffee

Perhaps you’re looking for something more coffee-based? Don’t worry, I got you. This classic stand-by is always a hit too.

Ingredients: 

• 2 oz choice of your whiskey
• 3 oz cold brew coffee
• Creamer of your choice

Directions:

Combine all the previously mentioned ingredients. Either drink as is or pour over ice!

Christmas Appetizer

Let’s start this with some app talk… you know appetizers! This dish is not supposed to fill you up but activates those tastebuds. I’m a sucker for easy appetizers, but also things that look way fancier than they are. I’m going to give you ideas and then you choose what vibes with you!

Prosciutto Wrapped Pears

This first Christmas dinner idea is an appetizer. When serving a healthier appetizer, you want to pair protein with produce, making for a snack that has some serious staying power. Produce like fruits and vegetables are low in calories but rich in water and fiber, which help you feel full. Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, so it also contributes to fullness.

A protein and produce appetizer is great for warding off hunger without ruining your appetite for the main course (or dessert). Prosciutto-wrapped pears not only look elegant, but they also follow this rule of thumb AND marry savory and sweet for the perfect bite. Plus, pears are in season, which means they are not only at their peak taste-wise but are also the most affordable. 

• Serves: 6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Ingredients: 

• 2 medium pears
• 16 slices of prosciutto, cut into strips
• 6 oz. goat cheese, sliced into 2-inch thin slices

Directions:

Top each pear slice with cheese and wrap with prosciutto. Place each prosciutto-wrapped pear in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until the prosciutto is golden and the cheese has slightly melted. Repeat with remaining pieces and place on a serving tray. Secure each with a toothpick (optional).

Air Fried Avocados

The air frying technique not only enhances the texture but also preserves the natural flavors, creating a savory and satisfying prelude to your holiday feast. Elevate your festive spread with this innovative twist on a classic favorite, adding a touch of culinary magic to your Christmas celebration.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 ripe avocados
• Breadcrumbs
• Balsamic Glaze
• Cheese of your choice (I love dairy-free Boursin)

Directions:

Cut your avocados in half, remove the pit, and peel them. Add breadcrumbs and place the avocados in an air fryer at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Once that’s done, remove the avocados and place them on a plate. Take a generous scoop of cheese and place it in the middle of the avocado where the pit used to be. Finally, drizzle the avocado with the balsamic glaze!

Charcuterie Board

Now if you literally cannot fathom turning on anything for an app, then try a lovely charcuterie board or a full-blown fancy cheese board. This requires some sort of serving dish and you cut up a lot of cheese and place it on a plate.

There are so many options, but think of a nice layout that would spread festive cheer! I highly recommend pairing hard and soft textures together, such as apples and pears with soft cheeses like brie and Havarti cheeses.

No holiday gathering is complete, with dinner around the table. It’s where family, even extended and out-of-state members, come together and simply enjoy each other. But who said Christmas dinner couldn’t be a delicious keto or healthy recipe? There are so many options for holiday meals that are great for the whole family. Let’s take a closer look.

One-Pan Roasted Turkey and Root Vegetables

Nothing says easy Christmas dinner idea like a one-pan dinner. This meal checks your protein and veggie boxes, is easy to make, and only requires a handful of ingredients. The best part is that there is barely any cleanup involved!

• Serves: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 3 hours
• Total time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 12 lbs. turkey, cut into 8 pieces
• 1 lemon
• 4 medium sweet potatoes, halved lengthwise
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 parsnips, peeled and halved lengthwise
• Thyme sprigs
• 4 carrots, peeled and halved lengthwise
• Rosemary sprigs 

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 500° F. Season turkey with salt and pepper and rub with the juice of one lemon. Place turkey in a roasting pan. In a large mixing bowl, toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper transfer to the roasting pan, and cover the bottom. Arrange thyme and rosemary over the vegetables and arrange turkey over the herbs and vegetables. Roast turkey for 20 minutes. Reduce heat to 350° F and roast for another hour or until a thermometer inserted into each turkey breast reads 150° F, and each leg, thigh, and wing reads 160° F. Discard herbs and transfer vegetables and turkey to serving plates. 

Prime Rib Roast

A prime rib roast is the epitome of Christmas time for some families. Sound like your family? Then you will love this tasty keto Christmas recipe. The recipes call for simple ingredients like a prime rib roast, salt, basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Simplicity at its finest, yet loaded with delectable flavors you will enjoy sinking your teeth into.

• Serves: 8
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Total time: 2 hours 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 5.5 lbs boneless rib roast
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Directions:

Mix seasonings and rub all over the roast the night before. Refrigerate overnight after wrapping in plastic wrap. Allow the roast to come to room temperature the day after taking it out ½ hour before roasting. Set oven temperature to 450°F. Transfer to a rack and set over a roasting pan or cookie sheet. After 15 minutes of roasting, reduce the heat to 325 degrees for two hours and one minute. To find out the precise time for various roast sizes and levels of doneness, please utilize the Roast Perfect app.

This recipe calls for a medium-to-medium-rare 5.5-pound rib roast. Take the oven out when the internal temperature reaches 135 degrees F. Tent it with aluminum foil and let it sit for 15 minutes before cutting.

Pork Tenderloin Roast

If your family’s favorite holiday meal consists of pork tenderloin roast, don’t worry, this keto Christmas recipe has you covered. Effortlessly juicy and falling off the bone tender, it’s a keto recipe that will not disappoint.

• Serves: 6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 pork tenderloins
• 2 tablespoons  olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey (omit if keto)
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or any hot sauce you like)
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut amino for paleo)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Directions:

Turn the oven on to 375˚F, or 190ºC. Put parchment paper or aluminum foil inside a baking dish and set it aside. Using paper towels, pat the pork tenderloins dry. Combine paprika, onion, garlic, thyme powders, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl. Coat the pork tenderloins with this mixture of spices. Sear the pork tenderloins in a skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until browned all over.

Place the pork tenderloins in the baking dish that has been prepared. Garlic, honey, soy sauce, mustard, Sriracha, and oil should all be put in a bowl and well whisked. Apply this concoction to the pork tenderloins. To serve, set aside a portion of the mixture. After 15 minutes of roasting, take the pork tenderloins out of the oven. To prevent the top from burning while the inside of the pork tenderloins continues to cook, tent them with foil.

Return the pork loin to the oven and cook for a further fifteen minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145˚F (62ºC). Assess doneness with an Instant Read Thermometer. After taking the baking dish out of the oven, cover the meat loosely with foil and give it ten minutes to rest. Cut the roasted pork tenderloins into slices and serve with the conserved glaze, orange slices, and rosemary on the side. Have fun!

Buttery Salmon

Do you prefer to go the seafood route for your holiday menu? Then you will love this delicious lemon garlic butter salmon recipe. This is one of the best keto holiday recipes as it comes with plenty of rich and mouthwatering butter that pairs well with the slightly sour and vibrant lemon.

• Serves: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Salmon filets (skin on or skinless), cut into 4 portions
• kosher salt and pepper
• 2 Tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 ¼ Cup Heavy cream
• 2 Tablespoons Lemon juice
• 3 Cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tablespoons freshly chopped parsley

Directions:

In a cast iron skillet, warm the oil over medium-high heat. Place the skin-side-up salmon filets on top. Sear the salmon until it turns golden brown and can be easily removed from the pan. Avoid flipping the salmon too soon, as it may stick. If your salmon has skin, flip it to the skin side and continue cooking until the skin crisps up and comes off the pan. After taking the salmon out of the pan, set it aside.

Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium and whisk together the lemon juice, heavy cream, garlic, and parsley. Simmer to thicken, for a few minutes. To taste, add salt and pepper for seasoning. Garnish the salmon with chopped parsley and a cream sauce. Serve the sauce on the side for the salmon skin to maintain its crispy texture.

Christmas Dinner Ideas: Entree for Vegetarians

It’s no secret the main meal is a showstopper. It’s supposed to be the filling part of the meal and is usually a protein source. There are a few ways to go about this main attraction! First up, you can go the traditional route and place a glazed ham, turkey, chicken breast, or even some type of vegan roast in the oven and let that marinate all day.

Now, the above is all fine and beautiful, but there’s some variation allowed here for your dinner menu! You can do pasta with mussels in a garlic and herb sauce or even a fancy mac and cheese. There is no right way because it’s whatever you want. Here’s a recipe for a fancy mac and cheese that is sure to be good not only on Christmas Day but even leftovers!

Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash

This Christmas dinner idea is a simple and nutritious vegetarian dinner that not only tastes delicious but looks elevated and is sure to impress your guests. It is made with all plant-based ingredients including in-season acorn squash and high-protein, whole-grain quinoa. This recipe is one of the healthiest Christmas dinner ideas!

• Serves: 2
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 65 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup quinoa, uncooked
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400° F. Place acorn squash halves with the cut side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until cooked and tender. Add oil to a large skillet and place over medium-high heat. Then add onion and garlic and sauté until cooked and translucent. And finally, add quinoa, broth, and thyme to the skillet and cover with a lid. Allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the broth is absorbed and the quinoa is cooked. Remove the lid and stir in cranberries, salt, and pepper to taste. Divide the mixture among acorn squash halves.

No Christmas dinner idea screams Christmas more than DIY chocolate bark. This recipe is made with dark chocolate chips, which are lower in sugar than the milk variety and higher in antioxidants. Superfood ingredients like goji berries and hemp seeds make this a “dessert with benefits” to accompany your healthier holiday meal. Plus, it also makes a great hostess gift. 

Boujee Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• Box of elbow macaroni
• 1c gruyere cheese, grated
• 1c white cheddar, grated
• 1/4 pound of Havarti, grated
• 1/6 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)
• 1/4 stick of unsalted butter
• 1/8 cup flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/5 cup half-and-half
• Olive Oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Parmigiano Reggiano to taste
• Dash of Dill

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a large pot, boil the water over high heat, add salt, drizzle some olive oil, and cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain the noodles and then add noodles to an oven-safe dish. Bring that same pot back to the stove and, over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk until well incorporated, making a roux. Add the milk, slowly, whisking constantly. Keep whisking for about 5 minutes until the sauce boils and thickens.

Once it’s thick, add the half and a half and cook for a little while longer to almost get thick again. Remove from the heat and add salt, pepper, dill, and the majority of the cheese. Mix everything for a couple of minutes until well incorporated. Pour the sauce into the macaroni and stir. Top with the rest of the cheese. Grate some Parmigiano Reggiano on top or just toss the store-bought one from the canister, to taste. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs and bring them to the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the sauce is bubbly.

Holiday meals aren’t complete without side dishes on the menu. Instead of opting for traditional mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and other carb-heavy sides, lighten things up with one of these sensationally great keto side dishes for Christmas.

Refreshing Salad

When you think of a holiday side dish, the salad might not come to mind. But why shouldn’t it? Just because it’s the middle of winter doesn’t mean you can brighten up your dinner table and palette with a salad. This arugula strawberry salad is a refreshing salad that pairs well with heavier main entrees. Plus, it’s ready in 3-5 minutes. Toss some coconut on top for more flavor.

• Serves: 2
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 cups baby arugula
• 6 organic strawberries quartered
• ¼ cup sliced almonds lightly toasted
• Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette
• 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• Sea salt to taste
• Fresh ground pepper to taste

Directions:

Arrange almonds, strawberries, and arugula on a platter. Whisk together Meyer lemon juice, avocado oil, salt, and pepper to produce the Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette. Serve the remaining dressing on the side and drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad. Add more salt and freshly ground pepper to taste and finish.

Potatoes and Macaroni

Consider replacing typical potato side dishes with keto-friendly cauliflower mash if you’re looking for something more indulgent to include during your keto Christmas dinner. You can even make some tasty cauliflower macaroni and cheese if you please.

• Serves: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• Pinch of salt
• ¾ cup whole milk, you can also use heavy whipping cream
• 3 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
• 1½ teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder, or to taste
• Salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 slices bacon, diced and cooked to a desired crispiness
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions:

Turn the oven on to 375˚F. In a big pot or saucepan, add 1 inch of water, a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the cauliflower florets and cook for 8 to 9 minutes, or until they are crisp-tender. In a colander, drain the cauliflower and set it aside. Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish and keep it aside. Transfer the milk to the pot you used to cook the cauliflower and place it on medium heat. When the cream cheese has fully melted, add it to the milk and mix. Add the dried parsley, salt, pepper, chili powder, and garlic powder and stir.

Add one cup of shredded mozzarella and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and stir slowly until the cheeses are completely melted. Reintroduce the cauliflower florets to the pot and, with a large spoon, swirl everything around until the cheese sauce coats everything. Spoon the cauliflower mixture into the baking dish that was previously prepared, then top with the remaining cheddar cheese and set aside.

Pork rind crumbs, parmesan, and melted butter should all be combined in a small basin and thoroughly mixed and stirred. Evenly distribute the pork rind mixture over the cauliflower. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, uncovered, or until bubbling and heated. Chop the bacon and cook it till it’s the appropriate crispy in the meantime. Serve the baked casserole with fresh parsley and crispy bacon as garnish.

Now, the moment you have all been waiting for the ultimate list of the must-know keto or healthy treat recipes. Which treat recipe will make it onto your holiday menu? (Let’s be honest here, though. You don’t have to pick just one!)

Superfood Christmas Bark

• Serves: 16
• Prep time: 15 minutes + 30 minutes wait time
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup fresh pomegranate arils 
• 2 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
• 2 tbsp goji berries 
• 2 tbsp hemp seeds 

 Directions:

Line a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside. Use the double boiler method to melt chocolate until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in half the superfood ingredients. Pour chocolate onto the baking sheet and spread with a spatula if needed. Top with the remaining half of the superfood ingredients and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Break into bite-size pieces before serving.

Keto English Toffee

One of the crowd favorites is English toffee. This keto-friendly toffee is made with four common ingredients, including butter, golden monk fruit sweetener, keto chocolate chips, and raw almonds. Ready in 8-10 minutes; it’s a winner in our holiday menu book.

• Serves: 12
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter
• 1/2 cup allulose or brown sugar
• 1 cup keto chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup raw almonds chopped finely

 Directions:

Spread out the chopped almonds in a small loaf pan or square pan lined with parchment paper, then set it aside. Put your sugar substitute and butter in a small pot. Heat over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts. Mix frequently. Put your candy thermometer in the center of the mixture as soon as it starts to bubble. Stir every 30 seconds until the thermometer registers 300 degrees Fahrenheit (hard crack).

Take off the heat source. After turning off the heat, keep stirring to prevent the sugar and butter from separating. Pour into the pan that has been lined, then wait a few minutes. Place chocolate chips on top after a few minutes and then cover with tin foil. Give it a five-minute sit. After five minutes, spread the toffee into an even layer with a rubber spatula. Keep chilled until solid. Once solid, fracture into fragments.

Paleo & Keto Cookies ‘N Cream Fat Bombs

Fat bombs are popular keto candy recipes that are eaten year-round. When it becomes a part of your keto Christmas, though, you need to do things a little bit differently. These Oreo cookie fat bombs are good enough for Santa Claus himself. Coconut oil, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and a few other common ingredients are used to create these incredible little numbers.

• Serves: 6
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 5 minutes
• Chilling time: 2 hours
• Total time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 60 g almond flour
• 11 g cocoa powder
• 2-3 tablespoons Swerve confectioners or powdered xylitol*
• 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee optional
• Pinch kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons melted grass-fed butter or ghee/coconut oil
• 160 ml full-fat coconut milk
• 2-4 tablespoons xylitol erythritol, to taste*
• pinch kosher salt
• 160 ml heavy whipping cream or chilled coconut cream (see notes)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

 Directions:

In a dry skillet or pan over medium heat, toast the almond flour until aromatic and thoroughly golden, 2 to 4 minutes. Don’t skip this; it’s highly significant in terms of taste! After transferring the toasted almond flour to a small bowl, stir in the salt, chocolate, optional coffee, and sweetener to taste. Mix in butter until fully incorporated. Using silicon molds or cupcake liners, press about one-third of the mixture in; reserve the other two-thirds for “crumbs.” While preparing the vanilla cream, put both in the freezer.

Put the sweetener, salt, and coconut milk in a saucepan over medium heat. It doesn’t take long to whisk the mixture until the sweetener has dissolved and it becomes smooth. After transferring to a mixing bowl, let cool fully. In a large, cool bowl, add the heavy whipping cream or cold coconut cream and beat until soft peaks form. Stir in the cooled coconut and sweetener mixture, as well as the vanilla essence. When the mixture is smooth, toss in the crumbled frozen “cookie.”Fill the prepared molds with the cookies ‘n cream mixture, then freeze until set. Let it thaw for ten to fifteen minutes before consuming.

Keto No-Bake Cheesecake

Another no-bake recipe that we highly recommend is this delicious Keto No-Bake Cheesecake.

• Serves: 12
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Chilling time: 4 hours
• Total time: 4 hours and 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 Cups almond flour
• 6 tablespoons salted butter melted
• ⅓ Cup monk fruit granulated sweetener
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• 4 Cups cream cheese, full fat only room temperature (2# total)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ large lemon juice & zest
• 1 Cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 Cup monk fruit powdered sweetener

 Directions:

Using a fork, combine all of the crust’s ingredients in a small bowl. It will resemble grainy, damp sand after it is blended. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared springform pan using your hands or the bottom of a glass. Place in the refrigerator to set for a minimum of fifteen minutes, or as long as it takes to thoroughly combine the filling. Beat the heavy cream on medium-high speed in the refrigerated medium-sized mixing bowl until firm peaks form, about 5 minutes. Beat the softened cream cheese, zest, lemon juice, and vanilla on medium speed in a separate large bowl until creamy.

Add the powdered monkfruit gradually and beat for one minute, or until frothy and well blended. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, a small amount at a time. Pour into the chilled crust when ingredients have been uniformly distributed. To uniformly distribute it throughout the pan, use an offset spatula. For at least 4 hours, refrigerate. It is best prepared the day before. Use a thin-bladed knife to carefully scrape the cheesecake’s crust from the springform pan’s edges right before serving.

To release the pan, open the side clamp. Now, to release the bottom, open the pan’s sides. Take it out of the refrigerator and slice and serve right away. If you allow it to come to room temperature, it will get too soft and become difficult to slice. Serve with chocolate sauce, whipped cream, keto caramel, or fresh berries, if desired.

Keto Snowballs Cookies

Snowball cookies are one of the most popular cookies for the holiday season. Well, you can add this favorite holiday treat keto-version with these Snowball Keto Christmas Cookies. With almond flour, coconut flour, and some sweeteners, you can create these delightful treats in under 30 minutes.

• Serves: 15
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 18 minutes
• Total time: 33 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups almond flour
• 1 cup walnut pieces finely chopped (almost ground)
• 2 tablespoons coconut flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¾ – 1 teaspoon ground cardamom (or ½ teaspoon cinnamon)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup butter softened
• ½ cup Swerve Sweetener (granular or)
• 1 large egg at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup powdered Swerve Sweetener

 Directions:

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners for the cookies. Mix the almond flour, coconut flour, cardamom, baking powder, chopped walnuts, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Beat the butter and sweetener in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla essence and beat. Until the dough comes together, beat in the almond flour mixture.

Form the dough into one-inch balls and arrange them roughly one inch apart on baking pans. Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until very little browned on top. Take off and allow to cool on the pan. Put the sweetener in a small, shallow bowl in powder form. Roll each cookie in the powdered sweetness until it’s fully covered.

Dried Cherry and Almond Cookies

Are you looking for something a little bit sweeter? Then the Cherry Almond Keto Shortbread Cookies should make it onto your Christmas list. The cherries give these almond cookies a fun and flavorful twist while adding holiday colors to the mix. So cheery and bright!

• Serves: 24
• Prep time: 12 minutes
• Inactive: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 2 hours and 57 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup, plus 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup coarsely chopped dried tart cherries (see Cook’s Note)
• 1/2 cup slivered, blanched almonds, toasted and coarsely chopped
• 2 3/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons water, plus extra, as needed

 Directions:

Using an electric mixer, cream the butter, sugar, almond, vanilla, and cinnamon extracts, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. cream in the egg after that. Beat on the lowest speed until just mixed after adding the flour.

Stir in the almonds and dried cherries with a wooden spoon. Shape the dough into a log that is approximately 12 inches long and 1 1/2 inches in diameter by transferring it to a sheet of plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least two hours after wrapping it in plastic wrap. You can make the dough up to three days ahead of time. Place an oven rack in the oven’s middle.

Set the oven’s temperature to 350°F. Place parchment paper between two heavy baking sheets. Slice the log crosswise into pieces that are 1/2 inch thick. Arrange the dough slices on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a 1-inch gap between each one. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cookies are puffy and have a golden rim. After moving the cookies to a wire rack, give them 30 minutes or more to cool completely before frosting.

Transfer the powdered sugar to a medium-sized bowl. Stir in the water and vanilla extract gradually, adding a teaspoon at a time of additional water until the mixture has a pourable consistency. (Produces roughly 2/3 cups frosting, sufficient to cover both types.) Place the cooled cookies on a baking sheet covered with a wire rack. Drizzle the cookies with the frosting using a spoon or fork, letting any extra run off onto the baking sheet. Give the icing an hour or so to harden before serving.

Keto Sugar Cookies

Don’t worry about missing out on Christmas sugar cookies this year, either. Here is a fantastic Low-Carb Sugar Cookie recipe that will work wonders for your holiday gathering. Sure, it’s a bit more work than regular sugar cookies. But that makes it, even more, fun – right?

• Serves: 32
• Prep time: 1 hour
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups superfine blanched almond flour, measured correctly (spoon & sweep) plus more as needed
• 1/4 cup coconut flour, measured correctly (spoon & sweep)
• 2/3 cup powdered monk fruit sweetener, can also sub with powdered coconut sugar for paleo
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces – softened
• 2 tablespoons of cream cheese softened, can also sub with KiteHill vegan cream cheese for paleo
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract
• 1/2 cup powdered monk fruit sweetener (Swerve or erythritol)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream OR coconut cream
• almond milk or lemon juice, as needed to reach the desired consistency

 Directions:

Mix the almond flour, coconut flour, sweetener, and salt in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on low speed until well blended.
Set the mixer to medium and add the butter, one cube at a time, mixing for about two minutes, or until the dough appears crumbly and slightly wet. Once the dough starts to form big clumps, add the cream cheese, vanilla, and almond extract and beat for an additional 30 to 60 seconds, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Using your hands, gather the mixture and knead it just until it comes together. If the dough seems too wet, add 1 tablespoon more almond flour at a time.

Roll into a disc and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for a minimum of thirty-five minutes, or as long as two days. Apply parchment paper to the edges of two large baking sheets. Put away. Take the dough disk out of the fridge and unroll it when you’re ready to roll. On a level surface, spread out a large sheet of parchment paper. Put the dough in the middle. Lay a second, larger piece of parchment paper over the dough, then roll it out with a rolling pin to a thickness of 1/4 inch (or 1/8 inch for thinner cookies).

For ten minutes, place the cookie dough sheet in the freezer. Take the cookie dough sheet out of the freezer, then take off the parchment paper on top. Using your preferred cutters, cut into shapes.

Arrange the cut cookies approximately 1 inch apart on baking pans that have been lined, and then freeze for an additional 10 minutes (to stop them from spreading). Continue with any leftovers. Warm up the oven to 325°F. Place each sheet of cookies on the center rack and bake for 13 to 17 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, or until the edges are lightly golden brown, being careful not to overbake. After 15 minutes of cooling on the baking sheet, move the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool completely. (The cookies will bake and solidify more.) Decorate or frost cookies as you choose.

Keto French Silk Pie

But which pie recipes are the best? There are plenty of options, but this French Silk Pie looks utterly smooth and delicious, as does this Pumpkin Pie for those who don’t reserve pumpkin solely for Thanksgiving festivities.

• Serves: 12
• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups almond flour
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup  sweetener
• ¼ cup butter solid
•  ½ tsp  baking powder
• ¼ tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 16 oz  cream cheese  room temperature
• 4 tbsp  sour cream
• 3/4 cup  whipping cream
• 3 oz dark chocolate
• ½ cup  cocoa powder unsweetened
• 1 tsp  vanilla extract
• ½ cup sweetener
• 1 tsp vanilla extract  for whipped cream
• 3/4 cup  heavy cream
• 2  tbsp  powdered sweetener
• 1  tsp  vanilla extract
•  Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder to garnish

 Directions:

Set oven temperature to 190°C/375°F. A 9-inch Pyrex pie plate should be greased with cooking spray or butter. In a large mixing bowl, add the almond flour, cocoa powder, sweetener, baking powder, salt, and cold butter. Blend thoroughly by hand or utilize a food processor. Ensure that the butter is thoroughly mixed in. After adding one medium egg, pulse the crust dough until it resembles crumbles.

Spread the dough into the prepared pie dish with your hands. Bake until firm, 10 to 15 minutes. Allow the pie crust to cool fully. Combine the heavy whipping cream, sour cream, melted chocolate, cocoa powder, sweetener, and vanilla extract in a big bowl. Blend the chocolate filling for three to four minutes, or until it appears frothy, using a hand mixer.

After transferring the chocolate filling into the cooked crust, chill it for six hours. Proceed to whip the cream. Beat the vanilla extract, powdered sweetener, and whipping cream together in a sizable, spotless bowl using an electric mixer. Beat until fluffy on high speed. Add chocolate shavings and whipped cream topping to the top of each pie slice.

No-Bake Mini Biscoff Cheesecakes

(Note: this recipe can also be made vegan with vegan cream cheese!)

Ingredients:

• 2 Keebler Ready Made Crusts (Minis)
• 1 jar of Biscoff
• A few Biscoff Cookies
• 1 tsp of Vanilla Extract
• Thawed Cool Whip
• 1 pack of cream cheese

Directions

Mix the package of cream cheese with at least 1/2 the jar of Biscoff. Once the mixture is smooth, add a few dollops of the Cool Whip and the vanilla and mix again until smooth. Place this mixture in the ready-made crust and then add a bit more cool whip on top. Put either whole Biscoff cookies on top of the Cool Whip or break the cookie into pieces and sprinkle on top of the Cool Whip.

This truly is the easiest dessert to make and you can always vary how much Biscoff you use as well. This is your creation, so you make the rules.

I don’t know about you, but for me, nothing says “Christmas morning” like a glutenous breakfast. Unfortunately, a lot of breakfast recipes for the holiday season will be jam-packed with sugar and carbohydrates – not exactly keto-friendly or healthy. That doesn’t mean you’re entirely out of luck, though. There are plenty of delicious breakfast recipes that will knock your socks off. Here are a few crowd favorites you might want to try.

Coffee Cake

This Keto Cranberry Coffee Cake is perfect for those with a serious sweet tooth but who don’t want to sacrifice their diet. The coffee cake is rich and moist and has a blend of sweet and refreshing flavors that will kickstart your morning. Take your coffee cakes to the next level by pouring some sugar-free cranberry sauce on top or go bold with brown sugar bourbon sauce.

• Serves: 18
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of almond flour finely milled, measured and sifted
• 1 1/2 cup of granulated sugar substitute
• 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 2 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
• 1/2 cup of coconut flour
• ½ cup melted butter cooled
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 1 teaspoon of orange extract
• 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest
• 2 cups of fresh or frozen cranberries
• 3 eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup of almond flour (I used finely milled)
• ½ cup of coconut flour
• ½ cup of granulated sugar substitute
• ½ cup of your favorite low-carb nuts (I used walnuts)
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter sliced thinly
• 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon of sea salt

 Directions:

Set oven temperature to 350 degrees. Butter a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Almond flour, coconut flour, nuts, cinnamon, salt, and sugar replacement should all be combined in a small basin. Add the chilled, thinly sliced butter to the dry ingredients and continue cutting until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Put away.
Sifted almond flour, sugar substitute, spices, baking powder, and sea salt should all be combined in a large mixing bowl. Put away. Set the oven’s temperature to 350.
Coat a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with oil. Beat the eggs, sour cream, orange zest, orange extract, and cooled, melted butter together in a medium-sized bowl. Put away.
To the big bowl containing dry ingredients, add the wet mixture.

Using a spatula, thoroughly combine the batter. Fold in the cranberries after that. Fill the 13 x 9-inch baking pan with batter. Evenly distribute the streusel crumb topping throughout the cake’s surface. Spread the streusel crumb topping over the cake batter gently. The cake should be baked for 45 to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the crumbs are gently toasted. Before slicing and serving, let the coffee cake cool on a baking rack for twenty minutes. The remaining food can be frozen for up to three weeks or kept in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Frittata

The sausage and spinach frittata are sure to be a hit for those who prefer savory keto recipes. The best part is, that you can mix and match your favorite vegetables to make a recipe you’ll genuinely want to devour. Go with earthy mushrooms, add some kick with bell peppers or jalapenos, or try a mix of different cheeses.

• Serves: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 5 eggs
• 2 sausage links about 6oz chopped
• 1 cup spinach chopped
• ½ cup onion chopped
• ½ cup red bell pepper chopped
• ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• Dash of salt and black pepper for sauteing the veggies

 Directions:

Set oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Chop the sausage, spinach, red bell pepper, and onions. After heating some olive oil in a skillet, add the onions. Cook for five minutes after adding the sausage, red bell pepper, and a dash of salt and black pepper. Beat eggs with heavy cream, cheese, cayenne, black pepper, salt, and thyme.

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet along with the other vegetables and stir until the spinach starts to wilt, about one minute. Add the egg mixture and well stir. Simmer for one minute, or until the edges start to turn yellow. After carefully moving the skillet to the center or lower shelf of your oven, roast it for seven to ten minutes. Remove and allow to sit for an additional five minutes before serving.

Final Words…

In summary, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year – to get creative with all kinds of drinks, confections, and nutritiously delicious Christmas dinner ideas! That’s right – you can eat healthily and have a great time with friends or family. You might’ve thought it would be a struggle to stick to your keto diet during Christmas time – well, not anymore. Now, you have a vast collection of Keto Christmas recipes that will satisfy everyone in the family. What better reason to celebrate?

Just remember that your Christmas dinner can be whatever you want it to be. Just be creative with your festive menu and do everything to your liking! Let us know which recipes are your favorite in the comment section! 

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This article is part of the “Holiday Recipes Series.” Click here to learn more.

Mia Syn

Master of Science in Human Nutrition | Website | + posts

Mia Syn is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, national on-air nutrition expert and host of Good Food Friday on ABC Charleston. She holds a Bachelor of Science in nutritional science physiology and a Master of Science in human nutrition from two of the top universities in the country, Columbia and the University of California, Berkeley. As one of the most recognized and trusted young dietitians in the media, her content serves as a healthy lifestyle resource for millions of television viewers and readers around the globe.

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