I am so excited to share my keto-friendly take on one of the most epic Crumbl Cookies: the Cinnamon Swirl Cookie. This recipe recreates the indulgent Cinnamon Swirl Cookie—a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth vanilla sugar cookie topped with cinnamon sugar and cream cheese frosting—but with a fraction of the carbs and calories.
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It’s truly like a cinnamon roll, but SO much easier to make. Something about the flavors of the vanilla cookie dough, warming cinnamon, and sweet & tangy cream cheese frosting are just so comforting, and I love how quickly these cookies come together to recreate those same flavors without all the steps of a typical cinnamon roll recipe. But if you are looking for more of a traditional keto cinnamon roll recipe, you can check out my Keto Cinnamon Buns recipe here.
Okay, back to these Crumbl copycat cookies. If you’ve ever had a Crumbl cookie, you know just how indulgent and delicious they are.
Why a keto version? A single Crumbl cookie can have 700-800 calories, over 100 grams of carbs, and 50-60 grams of sugar. Even eating just 1/4 of a Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl cookie gives you over 200 calories and 31 grams of carbs. That’s just not realistic for most of us following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
My keto version gives you all the same indulgent flavors but in a healthier, low-carb package. Each of my keto Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies contains just 205 calories, 19g fat, 2g net carbs, 5g protein, 3g fiber, and only 1g sugar. They’re rich, buttery, and full of cinnamon-sugar flavor, all without the carb and sugar overload. Let’s get started on the (surprisingly easy) recipe with all the details you need to know!
Ingredients Breakdown
What you need to make Keto Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies:
Each ingredient in this cinnamon roll cookie recipe has a purpose—not just for flavor but also for creating the perfect texture, sweetness, and structure of the cookies. Here’s a closer look at why I chose each one and how it contributes to the recipe.
Vanilla Sugar Cookie Base
- Blanched Almond Flour
Almond flour is a staple in keto baking. It’s made from finely ground blanched almonds, which means the skins are removed for a smoother texture. Almond flour is rich in healthy fats, low in carbs, and naturally gluten-free. It creates a soft, tender crumb in baked goods, making it the perfect base for these cookies.
Pro Tip: Use finely ground almond flour for the best results—avoid almond meal, which is coarser and can make the cookies grainy. - Coconut Flour
Coconut flour is highly absorbent and helps bind the dough while giving the cookies structure. It also adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. Since coconut flour is so absorbent, you only need a small amount to balance the almond flour.
Fun Fact: Coconut flour is high in fiber, which helps keep these cookies low in net carbs. - Powdered Sugar-Free Sweetener
I love using a powdered erythritol monk fruit blend here for a melt in your mouth texture. Powdered sweeteners dissolve easily and mimic the texture of powdered sugar, ensuring the cookies are smooth and sweet without being gritty. - Baking Powder
This leavening agent gives the cookies a slight rise and helps them puff up just enough to mimic the classic Crumbl cookie texture. - Salt
A small pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness. It’s a simple but essential ingredient that makes all the difference. - Unsalted Butter
Butter is the key to that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It adds moisture and flavor, making the cookies soft and buttery.
Why Unsalted? Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the recipe. - Eggs
Eggs act as a binder in the dough, helping the cookies hold together while also adding moisture. They also contribute to the light, slightly cakey texture of the cookies. - Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cookies and pairs perfectly with the cinnamon swirl and cream cheese frosting. It’s a classic ingredient that adds warmth and depth.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Unsalted Butter
Butter is the base of the cinnamon sugar topping, giving it a spreadable consistency. It also adds richness and helps the cinnamon-sugar layer stick to the cookie. - Cinnamon
Cinnamon is the star ingredient in this layer. Its warm, spicy aroma makes these cookies feel comforting and indulgent. - Sugar-Free Sweetener
I used allulose sweetener here. I like how it gives it a real cinnamon sugar flavor, and dissolves better than granulated erythritol. A powdered erythritol/monk fruit blend would also work here!
Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese
Cream cheese gives the frosting a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookie and cinnamon sugar. It also makes the frosting thick and creamy. - Butter
Butter adds richness and helps the frosting stay smooth and pipeable. - Powdered Sugar-Free Sweetener
Again, I used a powdered erythritol/monk fruit blend here. It’s the best alternative I’ve found for powdered sugar. - Vanilla Extract
Vanilla adds a hint of sweetness and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor of the frosting.
The Process: How to Make Keto Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies
Here’s a quick recap of the steps to make these keto cookies:
- Prepare the Dough: Mix the dry and wet ingredients to form the cookie dough.
- Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into balls, flatten to slightly thinner circles than you want your cookies to be (they will rise slightly during baking), and bake until golden.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar: Mix butter, cinnamon, and sweetener, then spread on the cooled cookies.
- Whip the Frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, sweetener, and vanilla until smooth. Pipe on the cookies in a swirl pattern.
Substitution Options
- Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour. Note that sunflower seed flour may react with baking powder and turn green due to chlorophyll—it’s still safe to eat!
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter alternative, and swap cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese like Kite Hill.
- Sweeteners: You can feel free to use regular powdered sugar if you don’t need your cookies to be strictly sugar free or low carb.
FAQ
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! These cookies store well in the fridge for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. If freezing, I recommend frosting them immediately before serving for the best texture.
Do These Cookies Taste Like Real Crumbl Cookies?
They really do, in my opinion! The texture is so soft and buttery, and the cinnamon-sugar flavor combined with the cream cheese frosting is spot-on.
How Many Calories Are in a Real Crumbl Cookie?
A typical Crumbl cookie has 700-800 calories per cookie, with upwards of 100 grams of carbs and 50-60 grams of sugar. This keto version is just 205 calories and 2g net carbs per cookie, making it a much healthier alternative.
Tips for Successful Keto Crumbl Cookies
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are best when slightly underbaked—they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Use a Piping Bag for the Frosting: For that signature Crumbl swirl, use a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off.
- Let the Cookies Cool Completely: If the cookies are still warm, the cinnamon sugar layer and frosting will melt.
Why Choose Homemade Keto Crumbl Cookies?
While Crumbl’s rotating flavors are exciting, there’s nothing better than recreating your favorites at home, especially when you can make them keto-friendly. Here are some reasons why making your own Crumbl-inspired cookies is worth it:
- Control Over Ingredients: When you bake at home, you know exactly what goes into your cookies. You can avoid artificial additives, excess sugar, and unnecessary fillers.
- Save Money: Crumbl cookies are huge and come with a premium price tag (around $5 per cookie!). This recipe yields 12 large cookies at a fraction of the cost.
- Portion Control: By making smaller cookies or adjusting the recipe, you can better manage portion sizes to suit your lifestyle.
- Diet-Friendly Options: These cookies are low-carb, gluten-free, and sugar-free, making them suitable for keto diets and anyone looking to reduce sugar intake.
How These Cookies Compare to Real Crumbl Cookies
If you’re wondering whether this keto version holds up to the original, let me break it down:
| Feature | Original Crumbl Cookie | Keto Copycat Crumbl Cookie |
| Calories | 700-800 per cookie | 205 per cookie |
| Carbs | 100+ grams per cookie | 2g net carbs per cookie |
| Sugar | 50-60 grams per cookie | 1g sugar per cookie |
| Texture | Soft, thick, buttery | Soft, thick, buttery |
| Flavor | Sweet and cinnamon-forward | Sweet, cinnamon-rich, tangy frosting |
While the original cookies are indulgent, this keto version delivers all the flavor with far fewer carbs, calories, and sugar.
The Benefits of Keto Baking
If you’re new to keto baking, you might wonder how it differs from traditional baking. Here’s why keto baking is worth exploring:
- Low-Carb Ingredients: Almond and coconut flours are high in nutrients and low in carbs, making them excellent substitutes for traditional flour.
- Healthier Sweeteners: Sugar-free sweeteners like allulose, erythritol, and monk fruit provide natural sweetness without causing blood sugar spikes.
- Nutrient Density: Keto recipes often include nutrient-dense ingredients like nuts, seeds, and healthy fats, making them more satisfying and filling.
- Sugar-Free Options: Whether you’re managing diabetes, following a keto lifestyle, or just trying to reduce your sugar intake, keto baking helps you satisfy your cravings without compromising your health goals.
Creative Ways to Enjoy These Keto Crumbl Cookies
While these cookies are incredible on their own, here are a few fun ideas to make them even more exciting:
- Make a Cookie Sandwich: Pipe cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a decadent keto dessert sandwich.
- Serve with Keto Ice Cream: Crumble a cookie over a scoop of keto-friendly vanilla ice cream for a heavenly treat.
- Crumb Topping: Break a cookie into small pieces and use it as a topping for keto cheesecake or yogurt.
- Gift Them: Wrap these cookies in a decorative box and share them with friends or family—they won’t even know they’re keto!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Keto Cookies
Baking keto cookies can feel different from traditional baking, so here are some tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Not Measuring Flours Properly: Almond and coconut flours can be more finicky than regular flour, so measure them carefully for the best results.
- Skipping the Rest Time for Dough: Keto dough often needs a minute or two to thicken as the coconut flour absorbs moisture. Don’t skip this step, or your dough might be too wet.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature to ensure smooth mixing and even baking.
- Overbaking: These cookies can dry out quickly if overbaked. Take them out when the edges are set, and let them cool completely on the baking sheet to finish cooking.
How to Store Keto Crumbl Cookies
Proper storage ensures your cookies stay fresh and delicious. The lack of sugar content means they need a little extra care. Here’s how to store them:
- At Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Frosted cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just bring them to room temperature before eating for the best texture.
- Freezing: Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Fun Fact: Why Crumbl Cookies Are So High in Calories
Crumbl cookies are famous for their massive size and rich ingredients, which is why they’re so calorie-dense. A single cookie often contains:
- Refined White Flour and Sugar: The traditional recipes use a lot of white flour and sugar, contributing to their high calories, sugar, and carbs.
- Large Portions: Crumbl cookies are oversized, often weighing around 5-6 ounces each. That’s 2-3 times larger than a standard cookie!
- Toppings and Fillings: From sugary frosting to candy pieces, Crumbl cookies are loaded with extras that significantly increase the calorie and carb count.
With this copycat Crumbl cookie recipe, you get the same indulgent flavors and textures without all the carbs and sugar!
I hope you love this copycat Crumbl recipe as much as I do! These keto Crumbl cinnamon swirl cookies are indulgent, easy to make, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying low-carb.
If you try this cinnamon roll cookie recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and share a photo on Instagram—tag me @sarahsfitfood so I can see your creations.
Happy baking!
XO,
Sarah
Keto Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies
Want to save this recipe?
I’ll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later! -Sarah
Ingredients
Vanilla Sugar Cookies:
- 1 1/2 cups blanched almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar-free sweetener
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 3 tbsp allulose or powdered sugar-free sweetener
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar-free sweetener
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine all dry cookie ingredients. Add softened butter, eggs, and vanilla, and stir until dough forms. Allow dough to rest for a minute or two to thicken.
- Form dough into 12 balls. Place on cookie sheet, and smooth and flatten each ball to slightly thinner than your desired thickness. Cookies will puff up and rise slightly while baking.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes. Allow to cool.
- Combine softened butter, cinnamon, and sweetener and stir until smooth. Spread a thin layer evenly over each cooled cookie.
- To make frosting, combine cream cheese and butter and mix until smooth. Add powdered sweetener (sift if needed to remove clumps) and mix again until smooth. Add vanilla.
- Add frosting to a piping bag, and pipe frosting in a swirl pattern on top of each cookie.
- Enjoy!
Is there anyway to substitute a different kind of low carb flour for the almond flour? I’m allergic to tree nuts. Thanks so much!
You might be able to try sunflower seed flour! Or you can try coconut flour, but since it’s a lot more absorbent than almond flour, you’d only want to use about 1/4 of the total amount. I hope this helps!
When I run this recipe through my calculations it comes out with 23g carbs per cookie? Using recipe nutrition analyzer
Hi Karen! This is probably due to the sweetener. Depending on what type of sweetener you inputted into your nutrition analyzer, it is probably counting the carbs from the sweetener in the total carb count. If you used an erythritol or allulose based sweetener for example, these sweeteners have about 4g of carbohydrates per teaspoon. These carbohydrates are different form regular carbohydrates, as they don’t contain calories and do not impact blood sugar, but still get lumped in as “carbs” by most regular nutrition calculators or labels. I generally count net carbs, which is the amount of carbs, minus fiber, and minus any non-impact carbs from the sweetener. I hope this helps!
SO delicious!
These came out so good!!
Hello Sarah! Is it going to affect the result poorly to use just almond flour instead of a mixture of almond and coconut flour? If I do just almond flour, how much would you recommend using?
Hi Brittany! Yes, I would recommend using the recommended amounts of almond and coconut flour. If you need to replace the coconut flour with almond flour, you would want to use about 4x the amount of almond flour than the amount of coconut flour called for. I hope this helps!