What are the best snacks for keto?

December 10, 2025 •

4 min read

According to StatPearls, the ketogenic diet, which shifts the body into a metabolic state of ketosis by limiting carbs to less than 50 grams daily, can result in significant weight loss and improved metabolic health. Finding satisfying, keto-friendly snacks can be challenging, but many delicious options exist to support your low-carb, high-fat lifestyle.

Quick Summary

This article provides a comprehensive guide to the top snack choices for those following a ketogenic diet. It covers both simple, convenient options and easy-to-make recipes, focusing on high-fat, moderate-protein foods that support ketosis and satisfy cravings. The guide also offers practical tips for choosing and preparing keto snacks.

Key Points

Fatty fish is a great option: Salmon, tuna, and mackerel are all packed with healthy fats and can be eaten canned or smoked for a quick snack.
Nuts and seeds make excellent portable snacks: Create a trail mix with almonds, pecans, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds for a quick boost of energy and healthy fats.
Eggs are a keto staple: Hard-boiled or deviled eggs are simple, protein-rich, and easy to prepare in advance.
Dairy can be your friend: Unsweetened, full-fat Greek yogurt, cheese sticks, or herbed cream cheese offer a satisfying source of fats and protein.
Don't forget the vegetables: Celery sticks, bell peppers, and cucumbers paired with guacamole or cream cheese dip offer a refreshing, low-carb crunch.
Homemade snacks offer control: Making your own fat bombs or granola bars allows you to customize flavors and ensure they fit your specific macro goals.
Read labels for hidden carbs: Many commercial products contain added sugars. Carefully check the nutrition facts for net carbs to avoid accidental missteps.

Simple and Convenient Keto Snacks

Staying in ketosis requires careful attention to your macronutrient intake, especially when it comes to snacks. The best snacks for keto are those that are low in carbs and high in healthy fats, often with a moderate amount of protein. These options are perfect for curbing hunger between meals without disrupting your metabolic state.

Dairy-Based Delights

Cheese: Unprocessed cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, blue, and goat cheese are fantastic choices. You can enjoy them in cubes, slices, or as baked crisps.
Full-Fat Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is a creamy, protein-rich snack. Opt for a full-fat, unsweetened version and mix it with nut butter, seeds, or a few berries.
Cottage Cheese: This is another excellent, high-protein dairy option. Pair it with almonds or a handful of fresh berries for a balanced snack.
Herbed Cream Cheese: Mix softened cream cheese with your favorite herbs and use it as a dip for low-carb vegetables like celery or bell peppers.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are powerhouse keto snacks, offering healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

Mixed Nuts Trail Mix: Create your own mix with almonds, macadamia nuts, pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. For an extra treat, add some cacao nibs or unsweetened coconut flakes.
Nut Butters: Sugar-free peanut, almond, or cashew butters are great additions to snacks. Spread them on celery sticks or enjoy a spoonful straight from the jar.
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: These are a crunchy and satisfying snack, rich in magnesium and zinc.

Protein-Packed Selections

Hard-Boiled Eggs: A classic and simple option, hard-boiled eggs are a quick and portable source of fat and protein.
Jerky: For a savory, on-the-go snack, choose beef or salmon jerky. Just be sure to check the labels for added sugars.
Leftover Meats: Small portions of leftover chicken, steak, or fish can be a perfect protein boost.
Pork Rinds: These are a crunchy, carb-free alternative to chips and can be used for dipping.

Fresh and Fatty Produce

Avocado: Whole avocados or freshly made guacamole offer a dose of healthy fats and are incredibly filling.
Olives: Olives are a simple, salty snack rich in healthy fats.
Celery Sticks with Guacamole or Salsa: A crisp and refreshing option that provides a satisfying crunch.
Berries: Small portions of berries like strawberries and raspberries are acceptable on a keto diet. Pair them with full-fat whipped cream for a simple dessert.

Comparison of Simple vs. Homemade Keto Snacks

Making your own snacks can offer more control over ingredients and macros, but pre-made options are excellent for convenience. The table below compares the two approaches.


Feature	Simple, Pre-Made Keto Snacks	Homemade Keto Snacks
Convenience	High. Ready to eat, perfect for on-the-go.	Low to moderate. Requires prep time and planning.
Cost	Can be expensive, especially specialized keto brands.	Generally more cost-effective as you buy bulk ingredients.
Ingredient Control	Limited. Must read labels carefully to avoid hidden carbs and sugars.	Full control. You know exactly what goes into your food.
Versatility	Limited to available products in stores.	High. Can be customized with different flavors and ingredients.
Freshness	Lower. Often shelf-stable products.	Higher. Freshly made with natural, whole ingredients.

Creative Homemade Keto Snack Recipes

For those who enjoy cooking, homemade snacks can be a delicious and budget-friendly way to stay on track. Here are a few popular keto snack recipes to try.

Keto Fat Bombs

Fat bombs are a great way to boost your healthy fat intake and curb cravings. One popular recipe is the chocolate peanut butter cup fat bomb, which combines melted coconut oil, almond butter, and cocoa powder. Other savory options, like blue cheese and bacon fat bombs, are also available.

Keto Granola Bars

With some almond flour, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and a keto-friendly sweetener, you can make delicious no-bake granola bars. Simply melt butter and sugar-free syrup, mix in the dry ingredients, and chill until firm.

Parmesan Cheese Crisps

These are incredibly easy to make and offer a satisfying, salty crunch. Simply place small piles of shredded parmesan cheese on a baking sheet and bake until golden and crispy.

Stuffed Mushrooms

For a savory, vegetable-based snack, stuff button mushrooms with a mixture of herbed cream cheese or ground sausage and bake until tender.

Tips for Sustainable Keto Snacking

Check Net Carbs: When buying packaged snacks, always check the label for net carbs (Total Carbs - Fiber). Most keto dieters aim for 20-50g of net carbs daily, so your snacks should align with this goal.
Prioritize Healthy Fats: Not all fats are created equal. Focus on healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil to support ketosis and satiety.
Practice Portion Control: Even keto-friendly snacks can be high in calories. Measuring your servings, especially with calorie-dense nuts and seeds, is key to managing weight.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water or unsweetened tea with your snacks is important. The keto diet can cause your body to lose more water and minerals, so staying hydrated helps prevent side effects like the "keto flu".
Prep Ahead: Planning and preparing snacks in advance is a game-changer. Batch-cook hard-boiled eggs or make a large batch of homemade fat bombs to have on hand for the week.

Conclusion

Finding the right snacks is crucial for long-term success on a ketogenic diet. From simple grab-and-go options like cheese sticks and olives to more involved homemade treats like fat bombs and granola bars, there are plenty of delicious and satisfying choices. By focusing on low-carb, high-fat foods and keeping a close eye on your macros, you can effectively manage your cravings and maintain ketosis. Remember to prioritize healthy fats, practice portion control, and stay hydrated to support your keto journey.

Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

When selecting jerky, it's important to choose varieties without added sugars, flavorings, or preservatives. Look for brands that offer beef or salmon jerky with a simple ingredients list to ensure it's keto-friendly.

Most fruits are high in sugar and should be limited. However, small portions of berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, are acceptable on a keto diet.

Yes, many nut butters are suitable for a keto diet, provided they are sugar-free. Look for brands with a simple ingredient list—just nuts and possibly salt—and be mindful of your portion size.

To make simple cheese crisps, arrange small piles of shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Fat bombs are small, high-fat, low-carb snacks designed to help keto dieters meet their daily fat macros and curb cravings. They can be savory or sweet and are typically made with ingredients like coconut oil, nut butter, and cream cheese.

Low-carb vegetables like celery, cucumber, bell peppers, and radishes are excellent for snacking. They can be eaten raw with dips like guacamole or herbed cream cheese.

You can have a keto-friendly trail mix by creating your own with nuts and seeds that are low in carbs, such as almonds, macadamia nuts, and pecans. Avoid traditional mixes that contain dried fruit or chocolate with high sugar content.