Ingredients
2 cups (8 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese (full-fat, low-moisture part-skim)
2 oz cream cheese (full-fat, softened)
¾ cup super-fine blanched almond flour
1 large egg
¼ cup chopped pepperoni slices (low-nitrate if possible)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
Optional: low-carb marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine shredded mozzarella and softened cream cheese. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth (about 1-2 minutes total).
3. Add the egg to the melted cheese mixture and mix vigorously until smooth and well combined.
4. Stir in almond flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until a uniform dough forms. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
5. Gently fold in the chopped pepperoni until evenly distributed.
6. Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the dough. Roll each portion into a 1-inch ball and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm with low-carb marinara for dipping if desired.
Notes
For easier handling, chill the dough for 10-15 minutes if it feels too sticky. Use super-fine blanched almond flour for best texture, not almond meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-8 minutes for best crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
- Diet: Ketogenic, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 bites
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg