The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Keto Buns: Buttery, Soft, and Incredibly Satisfying

Why These Keto Buns Changed My Low-Carb Life

There was a moment in my keto journey when I realized something crucial was missing—a real hamburger bun. Sure, lettuce wraps and cloud bread had held the line for long enough, but I was craving that warm, buttery softness you only get from a proper bun.

After a long list of disappointments with store-bought options that felt more like dense hockey pucks or sweet imposters loaded with fillers, I finally took matters into my own hands.

These buns? They completely transformed how I approach keto sandwiches and burgers. Not only are they wonderfully light and soft, but they actually taste like bread. Yes, real bread—without the carbs, gluten, or mystery ingredients.

What Makes These Keto Buns So Special

They’re ridiculously easy to make

If you’ve been avoiding baking because it seems like a lot of effort, you’ll be amazed by how straightforward this recipe is.

With just five ingredients, a microwave, a food processor, and an oven, you’re less than 30 minutes away from the kind of bun that elevates your burger experience.

Multi-purpose magic

These buns aren’t just for burgers. Remove the sesame seeds, and they’re perfect as dinner rolls. Slice one open, and you’ve got the ideal base for a sandwich.

They even make great slider buns if you shape them smaller and tweak the bake time.

You control what goes in

Unlike commercial low-carb bread filled with synthetic sweeteners, binding agents, or mysterious fibers, these buns use ingredients you likely already have in your keto pantry.

No psyllium husk. No erythritol. No unnecessary additives.

Keto, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly

The base of this dough is almond flour and cheese. That means no grains, no gluten, and no weird flour blends. If you’re eating paleo (and okay with dairy), these buns fit the bill beautifully.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe serves a clear purpose. Here’s why they matter:

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – This is the structural heart of the bun. When melted and combined with almond flour, it creates a firm yet fluffy texture. You can use cheddar cheese too, but keep in mind it adds a sharper, cheesier taste.

Cream Cheese (Full Fat) – Helps the dough come together smoothly. It also adds a touch of richness without making the buns greasy.

Eggs (Three in Total) – Two eggs go into the dough, giving it stability and helping the buns rise just enough. The third is for brushing the tops to create that golden crust.

Blanched Almond Flour – The key is using blanched, not almond meal. The fine texture prevents your buns from becoming gritty or crumbly.

Baking Powder – Just enough to give the buns a little lift so they don’t bake flat.

Sesame Seeds (Optional) – Because what’s a classic burger bun without them? They also add a slight nutty crunch.

Step-by-Step Directions for Perfect Keto Buns

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Space

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Don’t skip this step—clean-up will be a breeze, and the parchment ensures an evenly baked bottom.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese Mixture

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and the cream cheese. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the cheeses are almost completely melted. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool for a few minutes.

Make sure the cheese isn’t piping hot when you add the eggs later, or you’ll end up with scrambled eggs in your dough. You want the cheese to be warm and pliable—not steaming.

Step 3: Make the Dough

Transfer the slightly cooled cheese mixture to a food processor. Add in two of the eggs, almond flour, and baking powder.

Pulse several times until everything is well combined and a sticky dough begins to form. The dough will be thick and a bit elastic. That’s exactly what you want.

Step 4: Knead and Shape the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface using almond flour to keep things from sticking. Wet your hands (this is crucial—trust me), then turn the dough out onto the surface.

Knead the dough gently for about 30 seconds, just until it’s smooth and unified. Avoid overworking it.

Divide the dough into six even portions. Roll each into a ball, then gently press it into a classic bun shape. Place each one onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

Step 5: Add That Glossy Finish

Crack the remaining egg into a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Using a pastry brush, coat the tops of each bun with a light layer of the egg wash.

This gives them that gorgeous golden brown crust. If you like, sprinkle a few sesame seeds on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the center of your oven. Bake for 14 to 17 minutes, or until the tops are deeply golden and the buns are firm to the touch. Avoid opening the oven too often—it can disrupt the baking process.

When they’re done, let the buns cool for at least 5 minutes on a wire rack before slicing. If you cut them too soon, you’ll lose some of that light texture.

Tips from My Kitchen to Yours

Warm, not hot cheese is key

It bears repeating: Let your cheese mixture cool a bit before adding the eggs. Hot cheese will cook the eggs prematurely and ruin the dough consistency.

Don’t skip the egg wash

Not only does it make the buns look bakery-quality, but it also helps the sesame seeds stick and contributes to that slightly crisp outer texture.

Keep them warm before serving

These buns are best enjoyed warm or lightly toasted. If they cool down and become a little dense, pop one in the microwave for 20 seconds or slice it and warm in a skillet. Fluffy, buttery magic returns instantly.

Want sliders? Easy fix

Form 8 to 10 smaller balls instead of 6 and reduce the baking time by about 2 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they cook quickly.

Storing and Reheating Keto Buns

Refrigerator Storage

Once completely cooled, place leftover buns in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to one week. Just make sure they aren’t exposed to open air, which can make them dry out.

Freezer Friendly

These buns are absolutely freezer-friendly. Slice them in half first, then store them in a zip-top freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. They’ll last for up to 6 months.

To thaw, microwave for 30 seconds or leave them out at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating Options

If frozen, pop them in the microwave for 30 seconds. For a crispier texture, you can slice them and toast them in a dry skillet or toaster oven. Warm buns = best buns.

Final Thoughts: Bread That Fits Your Lifestyle

The first time I made these keto buns, I couldn’t believe how good they turned out. For years, I felt like I had to settle for sub-par low-carb options that left me craving the real thing. Now, I make these buns weekly—and they’ve become a staple in my meal prep.

Whether you’re using them for a juicy burger, a breakfast sandwich, or just warm with a pat of butter, these buns offer the perfect balance of soft, sturdy, and flavorful. They’ve got all the things you miss about regular bread, without breaking your carb bank.

If keto has felt like a breadless desert, this is your oasis. Once you try them, you’ll understand why I stopped buying keto buns altogether.

So go ahead, bake a batch. Stack it tall with your favorite burger fixings or keep it simple with avocado and bacon. However you serve them, these keto buns are here to prove that low-carb doesn’t mean low satisfaction.

Happy baking!


Easy Keto Buns RECIPE

You won’t believe these soft, pillowy keto buns are low in carbs! Made with simple ingredients, they’re an ideal option for burgers, sliders, or a tasty bread substitute.

  • Yields: 6 buns
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Appetizer
  • American Cuisine
  • Keto-Friendly

What You’ll Need

  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (*see notes)
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1¾ cups almond flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 2 large eggs (plus 1 extra for brushing)

How to Make It

  1. Get your oven ready: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Melt the cheeses: Combine shredded mozzarella and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until mostly melted. Stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
  3. Make the dough: Transfer the warm cheese mix into a food processor. Add almond flour, baking powder, and 2 eggs. Pulse until it forms a thick, sticky dough.
  4. Shape your buns: Lightly flour your work surface with almond flour. Transfer dough onto it and knead gently using damp hands. Divide into 6 equal pieces, roll into balls, then flatten each to resemble burger buns.
  5. Add finishing touches: Whisk the remaining egg and brush over the tops. Sprinkle sesame seeds if desired.
  6. Bake: Bake for 14–17 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let them cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Cheese options: Mozzarella is ideal for a neutral flavor. Cheddar or provolone work too but give a bolder taste.
  • For sliders: Divide the dough into 12 small portions instead.
  • Topping suggestion: 1 large egg (whisked) + 1 tbsp sesame seeds for that classic finish.

Storage Guide

  • Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze: Slice buns in half and place in a ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 6 months.
  • To reheat: Microwave for 30 seconds or toast in a skillet until warm.

Nutritional Info (Per Bun)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Carbs: 5g (Net Carbs: 2g)
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 790mg
  • Potassium: 111mg
  • Vitamin A: 663 IU
  • Calcium: 498mg
  • Iron: 2mg
Categories Recipes

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