carnivore sandwich bread
Yields: 1 loaf (about 10-12 slices)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes, plus cooling
Recipe Intensity & Details
-
Dietary Labels: Carnivore, Keto, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Nut-Free, Sugar-Free, Low-Carb
-
Difficulty Level: Easy – Perfect for beginners.
-
Equipment Needed: Medium mixing bowl, hand mixer or stand mixer, rubber spatula, 8.5″ x 4.5″ loaf pan, parchment paper.
Ingredients
-
6 large eggs, at room temperature
-
4 oz (1/2 cup) full-fat cream cheese, softened
-
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled, plus more for greasing
-
1 cup (100g) unflavored collagen protein powder (or whey protein isolate for a fluffier texture)
-
1 tsp baking powder (ensure it’s aluminum-free)
-
1/2 tsp fine sea salt (optional, but recommended for flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is crucial for the right rise. Take a sheet of parchment paper and line your 8.5″ x 4.5″ loaf pan, allowing the paper to overhang on the two long sides. This creates a “sling” that will make removing the baked bread effortless. Lightly grease the parchment paper with a small amount of butter.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In your mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature eggs, softened cream cheese, and the 4 tablespoons of melted (but not hot) butter. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the mixture on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes. You are looking for it to become smooth, pale, and slightly frothy. The cream cheese must be fully incorporated with no lumps.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the collagen protein powder, baking powder, and optional salt. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Once mostly combined, increase the speed to medium and mix for another 30-45 seconds until a smooth, thick, and cohesive batter forms. It will have a cake-batter-like consistency.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top into an even layer. Place the pan in the preheated oven on the center rack and bake for 35-40 minutes. The bread is done when the top is deep golden brown, the center feels firm to the touch, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool Completely (The Most Important Step!)
Remove the bread from the oven and immediately use the parchment paper sling to lift it out of the hot pan and onto a wire cooling rack. This step is non-negotiable! If left in the pan, the residual heat will create steam and make the bottom of the bread soggy. Allow the bread to cool completely to room temperature before slicing. This will take at least 1-2 hours. The structure sets as it cools, so slicing it warm will cause it to crumble.
Chef’s Notes & Tips for Success
-
Room Temperature is Key: Using room-temperature eggs and softened cream cheese is vital for proper emulsification and a smooth, non-lumpy batter.
-
The Protein Powder Choice: Collagen Protein gives a more traditional, slightly denser bread texture. Whey Protein Isolate will yield a lighter, fluffier, and more “bready” crumb. Do not use whey protein concentrate as it can make the bread gummy.
-
Avoid Overmixing: Once the dry ingredients are incorporated, mix just until the batter is smooth. Overmixing can deflate the air you’ve incorporated and lead to a denser loaf.
-
Customize It: Feel free to add a tablespoon of everything bagel seasoning, dried herbs, or a pinch of garlic powder to the dry ingredients for a savory twist.
-
Storage Instructions: This bread is best stored wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes exceptionally well. Slice it first, then freeze the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Toast directly from frozen.
The Last of the Recipe: Serving Your Carnivore Bread
This bread’s neutral flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile. Here are some classic and creative ways to enjoy it:
-
The Classic Sandwich: Pile it high with sliced turkey, chicken, or roast beef, a slice of cheddar cheese, and a generous smear of mayonnaise.
-
The Ultimate Bacon, Egg, and Cheese: Toast a slice and top it with a fried egg, crispy bacon, and a slice of melty American cheese for the perfect breakfast sandwich.
-
Simple Toast: Lightly toast a slice and slather it with grass-fed butter or ghee. The gentle heat brings out a wonderful, nutty aroma.
-
“Grilled Cheese”: Make a sandwich with your favorite carnivore-friendly cheeses and pan-fry it in butter until golden brown and crispy on the outside and oozy on the inside.
-
French Toast: For a carnivore-friendly treat, dip slices in a mixture of beaten egg, a splash of heavy cream, and a pinch of cinnamon (if tolerated), then pan-fry in butter.
Nutrition Information
(Please note: The following is an estimate based on the specific ingredients used and can vary. We recommend using a nutritional calculator with your exact brands for precise data.)
Serving Size: 1 slice (from a 10-slice loaf)
Calories: ~155
Total Fat: 12g
-
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrates: <1g -
Dietary Fiber: 0g
-
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 12g
Key Nutritional Highlights:
This Carnivore Bread is a powerhouse of nutrition perfectly aligned with a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle. It is virtually zero-carb, making it ideal for maintaining ketosis. It’s packed with high-quality protein from the eggs, collagen, and cream cheese, supporting muscle maintenance, satiety, and gut health. The high fat content provides a sustained energy source. It is also completely free from inflammatory agents like gluten, grains, and sugars.