The ketogenic (keto) diet has become one of the most popular ways to lose weight and improve health in recent years. The appeal is clear: by consuming high-fat, moderate-protein, and very low-carb foods, your body enters a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. While this metabolic shift can offer various benefits, finding tasty and convenient keto-friendly snacks to stay in ketosis and satisfy cravings can be a challenge. Whether you’re new to the keto diet or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you discover the best keto snacks to enjoy throughout the day.
Why Keto Snacks are Essential
Snacking while on a keto diet is not only allowed but can also be crucial to maintaining your energy levels, staving off hunger, and ensuring you’re getting the right mix of macronutrients (fat, protein, and carbs). Since keto restricts carb intake to 20–50 grams per day, choosing snacks that fit within these guidelines is vital for staying in ketosis. However, keto snacks should also be delicious and fulfilling to help you stick with the diet long-term.
In this blog, we will dive deep into the best keto snacks that are low in carbs, high in healthy fats, and packed with flavor. Let’s explore some options that will keep you satisfied while ensuring you stay on track with your ketogenic lifestyle.
Top 15 Best Keto Diet Snacks
1. Avocado Slices with Olive Oil and Sea Salt
Avocados are a keto dieter’s best friend. Not only are they high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, but they’re also rich in fiber, which can help with digestion and satiety. Simply slice up half an avocado, drizzle some extra-virgin olive oil, and sprinkle sea salt on top for a quick, nutrient-dense snack. You’ll feel full and satisfied for hours, and the healthy fats will help keep your body in ketosis.
Why it works: High in fats, low in carbs, and packed with essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium.
2. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are perfect for keto snacking because they’re portable, tasty, and nutrient-rich. Stick to lower-carb nuts like macadamias, almonds, pecans, and Brazil nuts. You can also add seeds like chia, flax, and sunflower to your diet. A small handful of these nuts and seeds can satisfy your cravings while keeping your carb intake low.
Pro tip: Be cautious with portion sizes, as nuts are calorie-dense and easy to overeat.
Why it works: They are loaded with healthy fats and protein, with minimal carbs.
3. Cheese Crisps
Cheese crisps are a crunchy, savory snack that delivers on flavor while being keto-friendly. You can buy pre-packaged cheese crisps, or make your own by baking shredded cheese until it forms a crispy chip-like texture. They’re perfect for snacking on their own or paired with a dip like guacamole or sour cream.
Why it works: Cheese is rich in fat, low in carbs, and provides a satisfying crunch that’s often missed on a keto diet.
4. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are the ultimate portable keto snack. They’re packed with protein and healthy fats and contain virtually no carbs. Plus, eggs are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, vitamin D, and selenium. You can prepare a batch of hard-boiled eggs at the beginning of the week for easy, grab-and-go snacks.
Why it works: Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse with the perfect macronutrient profile for keto.
5. Keto Fat Bombs
Fat bombs are a keto favorite because they’re designed to give you a concentrated dose of healthy fats in a small, delicious bite. You can make fat bombs with a variety of ingredients, such as coconut oil, nut butter, cream cheese, and cocoa powder. These bite-sized treats are not only satisfying but also help curb sweet cravings without kicking you out of ketosis.
Why it works: High in fats and low in carbs, fat bombs are a great snack option that keeps you in ketosis.
6. Celery Sticks with Nut Butter
Celery sticks provide a refreshing crunch, and when paired with a high-fat, low-carb nut butter (such as almond butter or peanut butter), they make an ideal keto snack. Be sure to choose natural, unsweetened nut butter to avoid added sugars.
Why it works: This combo offers a good balance of fiber, fat, and protein while being low in carbs.
7. Beef Jerky or Meat Sticks
Beef jerky and meat sticks can be excellent high-protein, low-carb snacks, but it’s important to choose varieties that are free from added sugars and preservatives. Look for brands that use minimal ingredients and grass-fed meat for a cleaner, keto-friendly option. These savory snacks are great for curbing hunger between meals.
Why it works: They are rich in protein and provide a quick, satiating snack option that won’t disrupt ketosis.
8. Pork Rinds
For those craving a crunchy, salty snack, pork rinds are an excellent option. These fried pork skins are high in fat and contain zero carbs, making them a great alternative to chips or crackers. Pair them with guacamole or a creamy dip for extra flavor.
Why it works: Pork rinds are a perfect keto snack because they’re pure fat and protein, with no carbohydrates.
9. Cucumber Slices with Cream Cheese
Cucumbers are low in carbs and high in water content, making them a refreshing snack choice. When paired with full-fat cream cheese, cucumber slices become a delicious and filling keto snack. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra burst of flavor.
Why it works: This snack is light, hydrating, and provides a healthy dose of fats from the cream cheese.
10. Olives
Olives are naturally high in healthy fats and low in carbs, making them an excellent snack for keto dieters. They’re also rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Whether you prefer green or black olives, they can be enjoyed straight from the jar or paired with cheese and meats for a Mediterranean-inspired snack.
Why it works: Olives provide healthy fats and can satisfy cravings for something salty without the carbs.
11. Keto-Friendly Dark Chocolate
Chocolate lovers, rejoice! You can still enjoy chocolate on the keto diet as long as it’s high in cocoa (85% or more) and low in sugar. Keto-friendly dark chocolate is rich in healthy fats and has minimal carbs. You can have a small piece to satisfy sweet cravings while staying in ketosis.
Why it works: Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is low in carbs and can be a tasty, satisfying treat.
12. Pickles
Pickles are an easy, crunchy snack that’s very low in carbs. Be sure to choose sugar-free pickles made with natural ingredients. They’re high in electrolytes like sodium, making them a great option to help prevent keto flu symptoms during the early stages of ketosis.
Why it works: Pickles are low in calories and carbs while being high in flavor, making them an ideal keto snack.
13. Full-Fat Greek Yogurt with Berries
While some dairy products can be high in carbs, full-fat Greek yogurt is an exception when consumed in moderation. Pair it with a handful of low-carb berries like raspberries or blackberries for a creamy, sweet snack that fits within your keto macros. Greek yogurt is also a good source of protein and probiotics.
Why it works: This snack balances fat, protein, and low-carb fiber from the berries.
14. Coconut Chips
Unsweetened coconut chips are a great option for a keto-friendly snack. They’re crunchy, rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), and have a natural sweetness that can help curb sugar cravings. Be sure to choose brands that don’t add sugar or other carb-heavy ingredients.
Why it works: Coconut chips are high in fat and fiber, with very few carbs, making them an excellent keto snack.
15. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
Smoked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, while cream cheese adds a dose of healthy fats. Simply spread some cream cheese on a slice of smoked salmon, roll it up, and enjoy! These roll-ups are a luxurious, low-carb snack that can also be served as an appetizer.
Why it works: The combination of healthy fats and protein keeps you full and supports ketosis.
Tips for Choosing Keto Snacks
Now that you have a list of delicious keto snacks, here are a few tips to help you make smart snacking choices:
1. Focus on Whole Foods
Whenever possible, choose whole, unprocessed foods. These are more nutrient-dense and contain fewer hidden carbs and additives that could derail your ketosis.
2. Read Labels Carefully
Many pre-packaged snacks may seem keto-friendly but contain hidden sugars, starches, or artificial ingredients. Always read the label to ensure the snack fits within your carb limits and has clean, healthy ingredients.
3. Watch Portion Sizes
Even keto-friendly snacks can add up in calories and carbs if you overeat. It’s important to monitor portion sizes, especially with calorie-dense foods like nuts, seeds, and cheese.
4. Prep Ahead
To avoid temptation, prepare your keto snacks ahead of time. This could mean portioning out nuts into small containers, pre-cooking hard-boiled eggs, or making fat bombs to store in the freezer. Having snacks ready to go will help you stay on track.
Conclusion: Stay in Ketosis and Satisfied
Finding the best keto snacks is key to maintaining a successful ketogenic diet. With the right snack choices, you can stay in ketosis while satisfying your cravings and keeping your energy levels high. The 15 snacks listed above are not only low in carbs but also delicious and easy to prepare, making them perfect options for anyone following the keto lifestyle.
Remember, the key to success on the keto diet is consistency, so stock your pantry with these keto-friendly options to ensure you always have something tasty and satisfying on hand. Whether you’re craving something sweet, salty, crunchy, or creamy, there’s a keto snack out there that will hit the spot while keeping you in ketosis.