Low Carb Maple Walnut Cream Cheese

Full Disclosure: It’s important to acknowledge that Schmidt Old Tyme 647 Bagels aren’t very low in carbs. I certainly wouldn’t categorize them as “keto-friendly.” However, they serve as a reasonable middle ground for those looking to indulge occasionally without straying too far from their health goals. The plain bagels have been around for a while, but the introduction of the Cinnamon Raisin variety has truly transformed my breakfast routine, sparking ideas to revisit and recreate a beloved childhood treat: a cinnamon raisin bagel with maple-walnut cream cheese spread.

When it comes to cream cheese, you’re not limited to one brand, but I’ve found that the packaging of well-known brands often provides a more user-friendly experience than their generic counterparts. For the maple flavor, I’ve discovered that Maple Grove Farms’ Sugar-Free Syrup stands out. It masterfully uses a blend of three artificial sweeteners to minimize any unpleasant aftertaste.

A small amount of molasses is included in this recipe, not for its sweetness, but because it imparts an essential, rich depth of flavor. Beyond its taste, molasses is a source of important nutrients like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. While the bagels themselves carry a hint of cinnamon, adding a different type of cinnamon to the spread can elevate the flavor profile, giving it a more complex, spicy warmth.

Finally, the choice of walnuts is crucial; I recommend finely dicing them rather than chopping, as this allows them to meld seamlessly into the cream cheese, providing both texture and taste without the risk of them separating from the spread.

Ingredients

8 oz. (1 package) cream cheese, softened
7 drops EZ-Sweetz
½ tablespoon Truvia
1 tablespoon (16 g) Maple Grove Farms Sugar Free Syrup, Original Flavor
7 g (1 tsp) molasses
½ teaspoon cinnamon
30 grams (¼ cup) finely diced walnuts

Directions

1. Add all the ingredients except the walnuts to a bowl and mix with an electric mixer. Fold in the walnuts. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for a few hours.

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