Name: Low Carb Keto Stollen with Sugar-Free Marzipan and Citrus Zest Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups almond flour; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 3 oz cream cheese; 1 egg; 1/4 cup powdered sweetener; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp orange zest; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/3 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pecans); 1/4 cup sugar-free dried cranberries (optional); 1/4 cup sugar-free marzipan (rolled into a log); 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

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If you love the festive flavors of traditional Christmas treats but want to keep things low carb and keto-friendly, you’re going to absolutely adore this Low Carb Keto Stollen with Sugar-Free Marzipan and Citrus Zest Recipe. It’s a beautifully moist, rich, and vibrant holiday bread that combines the nutty goodness of almond flour with the sweet, aromatic zing of citrus zest, all wrapped up around a luscious sugar-free marzipan center. This stollen manages to capture all the warmth of the classic German Christmas bread without the carb overload — perfect for celebrating the season in a healthier way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are nine white bowls and a clear measuring cup holding different ingredients: one bowl has white flour piled high, another has white powdered sugar, one holds white granulated sugar, and another has yellow cubed butter. The clear measuring cup contains milk. There are also two bright yellow lemons near the center. A small white bowl holds a light beige powder, and another bowl holds a darker beige powder. A small container of cinnamon spice and a silver bowl filled with light brown roasted nuts and dark raisins are also present. A white plate has two beige rounds and a dark brown vanilla bean pod. In the top right corner, a silver grinder with a wooden handle sits on the surface. The light is bright and soft, and the photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive aroma — plus, they’re all wonderfully straightforward to gather. From the nuttiness of almond flour to the creamy richness of cheese, every component works together to bring this Low Carb Keto Stollen with Sugar-Free Marzipan and Citrus Zest Recipe to life.

2 cups almond flour: The low carb base that gives a tender, nutty crumb and keeps the stollen gluten-free.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds moisture and a stretchy texture that binds the dough perfectly.
3 oz cream cheese: Contributes luscious creaminess and helps keep the bread soft.
1 egg: Acts as a natural binder and boosts the structure of the dough.
1/4 cup powdered sweetener: Sweetens the bread without any sugar spike; choose your favorite keto-friendly option.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma that complements the citrus zest beautifully.
1 tsp orange zest: Brightens the flavor with a fresh, sweet citrus punch.
1 tsp lemon zest: Balances the sweetness with a touch of tartness for depth.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the stollen rise just right for a fluffy-yet-dense texture.
1/3 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pecans): Adds crunch and a satisfying bite to each slice.
1/4 cup sugar-free dried cranberries (optional): Infuses festive color and a hint of fruity sweetness without carbs.
1/4 cup sugar-free marzipan (rolled into a log): The star of the show inside, delivering that classic stollen marzipan center without sugar guilt.
2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing): Gives the crust a beautiful golden sheen and rich flavor.

How to Make Low Carb Keto Stollen with Sugar-Free Marzipan and Citrus Zest Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Melt the Cheeses

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly hot when your dough is ready. Next, gently melt the shredded mozzarella and cream cheese together until smooth and stretchy — this creamy mixture is the secret that makes your stollen soft and perfectly bindable.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, powdered sweetener, baking powder, orange zest, lemon zest, and chopped nuts. If you’re using sugar-free dried cranberries, toss those in here as well. This combination creates the flavor-packed, low carb base your stollen needs.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients with Dry

Add the melted cheese mixture, egg, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Stir everything together thoroughly to form a dough. It may feel a bit sticky but that’s exactly what you want for this recipe.

Step 4: Shape and Fill the Dough

On a piece of parchment paper or a lightly greased surface, flatten the dough into a rough rectangle. Place your sugar-free marzipan log right in the center. Carefully fold the dough over the marzipan, sealing it inside and shaping it into a loaf that is ready to bake.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Place your loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment, then pop it into the oven for about 18 to 22 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden color. Once out of the oven, immediately brush the top generously with melted butter and dust with some powdered sweetener for that classic stollen look and extra indulgence.

How to Serve Low Carb Keto Stollen with Sugar-Free Marzipan and Citrus Zest Recipe

The image shows a loaf of sliced fruitcake on a wooden board, dusted with white powdered sugar that covers the top and sides unevenly, giving it a snowy look. The cake has two visible slices lying flat in front of the whole loaf, displaying a dense brown interior filled with chunks of light-colored fruit and nuts, giving it a textured appearance. A knife with a dark handle is placed to the right on the white marbled surface, near the wooden board. In the background, there are white dishes blurred out, adding depth to the scene. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sweetener adds a snowy, festive touch, while a few extra citrus zest sprinkles on top can brighten each slice visually and aromatically. You can also add chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a special holiday twist.

Side Dishes

This stollen pairs beautifully with a hot beverage like spiced tea, cinnamon-infused coffee, or a creamy keto hot chocolate. For a savory balance, a charcuterie board with mild cheeses and nuts complements the sweet, rich flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Low Carb Keto Stollen with Sugar-Free Marzipan and Citrus Zest Recipe sliced on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh sprigs of rosemary or holly for that instant holiday charm. You can also wrap individual slices in parchment tied with red twine for easy gifting or a beautiful breakfast spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, wrap your stollen tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It will keep well for up to one week, making it a convenient holiday treat to enjoy over several days.

Freezing

If you’d like to store it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the stollen securely in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to three months, so you can prep in advance without any loss in quality.

Reheating

To enjoy fresh-tasting slices, simply let the stollen thaw at room temperature and warm in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This warms the marzipan center and revives the soft, tender crumb perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts besides almonds or pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or hazelnuts work wonderfully and will add their own unique flavor and texture to your Low Carb Keto Stollen with Sugar-Free Marzipan and Citrus Zest Recipe. Just make sure to chop them roughly for that satisfying crunch.

Is the sugar-free marzipan necessary?

While the sugar-free marzipan adds authenticity and a deliciously sweet surprise inside, you can omit it if you prefer a simpler version. The stollen will still be moist and flavorful thanks to the rest of the ingredients.

What powdered sweetener do you recommend?

Powdered erythritol blends well for that classic sweetness without the aftertaste. You can also use monk fruit sweetener or allulose based on your preference, just ensure it’s powdered to avoid gritty textures.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Since this recipe relies heavily on mozzarella and cream cheese for texture, making it dairy-free would require significant modifications. Using dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well might work, but results may vary.

How thick should I slice the stollen?

Slices about 1 inch thick are ideal for balancing the rich flavors and textures without overwhelming every bite. Thinner slices can dry out, and thicker cuts might be too dense to enjoy properly.

Final Thoughts

There you have it — a delightful Low Carb Keto Stollen with Sugar-Free Marzipan and Citrus Zest Recipe that captures all the joy and tradition of your holiday favorites while honoring your dietary goals. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and bring a little low carb magic to your festive table. Trust me, once you taste that tender almond flour crumb paired with the citrus zing and creamy marzipan center, this stollen will become your go-to Christmas treat year after year!