20+ Christmas Eve Breakfast Meals For Diabetics
Christmas Eve morning is a time of joy and celebration, and a delicious breakfast is a cherished part of the tradition for many families. For individuals living with diabetes, navigating holiday meals can be challenging, but with a little planning, it is entirely possible to enjoy a festive and satisfying breakfast without compromising blood sugar management. This article provides over 20 Christmas Eve breakfast ideas that are both delicious and diabetic-friendly, complete with full recipes, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions, along with nutritional guidance to help you make informed choices during this special time of year.
Key Principles for a Diabetic-Friendly Christmas Breakfast
A well-balanced breakfast is crucial for everyone, but it is especially important for individuals with diabetes. A good breakfast can help stabilize blood sugar levels, improve energy, and set the tone for a day of healthy eating. According to health experts, a diabetic-friendly breakfast should be rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, while being low to moderate in carbohydrates [1].
Here are some key principles to keep in mind:
- Prioritize Protein: Protein helps you feel full and satisfied, and it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. Good sources of protein for breakfast include eggs, Greek yogurt, lean meats, and tofu.
- Fill Up on Fiber: Fiber, particularly soluble fiber, slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help prevent blood sugar spikes [1]. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are all excellent sources of fiber.
- Include Healthy Fats: Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and seeds, can also help with blood sugar control and keep you feeling full [1].
- Control Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates have the most significant impact on blood sugar levels, so it is important to choose them wisely and control portion sizes. Opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains, which are digested more slowly than refined carbohydrates.
Festive & Diabetic-Friendly Breakfast Recipes
Here are over 20 breakfast recipes, complete with festive twists and nutritional considerations, to make your Christmas Eve breakfast both merry and healthy.
Full Recipes for Diabetic-Friendly Christmas Breakfasts
1. Almond Flour Pancakes (Low Carb)
Servings: 8 pancakes (about 5g net carbs per pancake)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 2 teaspoons Truvia or another sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened oat milk
- 1-2 tablespoons water (if needed to thin consistency)
- 2 eggs
- Nonstick cooking spray
Optional Toppings:
- Confectioner’s Swerve (sugar-free)
- Fresh berries
- Sugar-free maple syrup
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine almond flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix the dry ingredients together.
- Add vanilla extract, avocado oil, oat milk, eggs, and water to the dry ingredients.
- Stir all ingredients together until the batter is well incorporated.
- Heat a nonstick pan on medium-low heat (level 3 on a gas stove) until the oil is bubbling but not smoking.
- Scoop 1/4 cup of batter at a time onto the skillet or griddle.
- Cook for 4-6 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown and the sides become firm enough to lift the pancake.
- Flip and cook the other side until the pancake is cooked all the way through.
- Top with your favorite low-carb toppings and enjoy!
Tips: These pancakes don’t bubble at the top like regular pancakes. They’re ready to flip when they release from the pan and are firm about halfway through the middle.
2. Speedy Shakshuka
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1 egg, 1/2 cup sauce, 1 slice toast
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 230
- Total Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 whole onion, chopped
- 1 whole red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 whole eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh basil
- 4 slices whole wheat bread, toasted
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper and sauté for 6 to 7 minutes, until soft.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add the marinara sauce, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Turn the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Using the back of a spoon, make 4 indentations, spaced out from each other, in the sauce.
- Gently crack an egg into each indentation. Cover the pan and let the eggs cook until set but still soft, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Sprinkle the basil leaves over the mixture in the skillet, cover, and cook for 1 minute. The eggs should be set, not runny.
- Spoon 1 egg and 1/2 cup of sauce over each slice of toasted bread to serve.
Festive Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to the tomato sauce for a festive holiday aroma.
3. Budget-Friendly Summer Vegetable Frittata
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Serving Size: 2 slices
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 130
- Total Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz white (button) mushrooms, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups spinach
- 2 whole eggs
- 5 egg whites
- 1/4 cup skim milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Add olive oil to an oven-safe, non-stick sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Add mushrooms and sauté until all of the liquid from the mushrooms is evaporated.
- Add bell pepper, onion, and spinach and sauté until vegetables are softened and liquid is evaporated.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, egg whites, milk, salt (optional), pepper, cayenne pepper, and basil.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and stir until eggs start to set.
- Smooth the top of the frittata with a spatula, and put in oven to bake for 20 minutes or until eggs are set.
- Slide the frittata out of the pan onto a plate and slice into 8 pie slices (2 slices per serving).
Festive Twist: Use red and green bell peppers for a Christmas color scheme. Top with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of paprika for color.
Tip: By using a combination of egg whites and whole eggs, you cut back on saturated fat and cholesterol while maintaining great taste and texture.
4. Sugar-Free Yogurt Parfait with Fresh Berries
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Serving Size: 1 parfait
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain fat-free Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 5 drops liquid stevia sweetener (or sweetener of choice)
- Optional toppings: chia seeds, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or low-sugar granola
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt and liquid stevia sweetener with a spoon until the mixture is a creamy consistency.
- Take a tall glass or small bowl for your parfait and add a layer of yogurt to the bottom.
- Add berries and nuts (optional) between layers of yogurt until you reach the top.
- Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for easy meal prep on the go!
Festive Twist: Alternate red and green layers using raspberries/pomegranate seeds and kiwi/green grapes for a Christmas color scheme.
Customization Tips: Swap out blueberries for your favorite berries like raspberries or strawberries. Add chia seeds, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts for extra texture and nutrition.
5. Really Green Smoothie
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Serving Size: 1 smoothie
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 267
- Total Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients:
- 1 large ripe banana
- 1 cup packed baby kale (or coarsely chopped mature kale)
- 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
- 1/4 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 teaspoons honey (or sugar-free sweetener for lower carbs)
- 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions:
- Combine banana, kale, almond milk, avocado, chia seeds, and honey in a blender.
- Blend on high until creamy and smooth.
- Add ice cubes and blend until smooth.
- Serve immediately.
Festive Twist: The vibrant green color is perfect for Christmas! Garnish with a mint leaf for extra festive appeal.
Tips:
- Use baby kale for the most tender texture, or coarsely chop mature kale
- A ripe banana will have brown freckles on the peel
- Chia seeds help thicken the smoothie and add fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Substitute baby spinach if you prefer a milder green flavor
6. Easy Low-Carb Breakfast Casserole
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 16g
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups bell peppers, diced (use a mix of red and green for a festive look)
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
- 3 cups spinach, chopped
- 12 eggs
- 1/8 teaspoon each salt and pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a skillet, cook the ground sausage until fully cooked. Add garlic, peppers, and onions to the skillet and sauté with the sausage for 2 minutes.
- Place the sausage and vegetable mixture in your prepared baking dish. Add chopped spinach on top.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the baking dish and gently mix to ensure the eggs cover the entire dish.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for 45 minutes, or until a fork can come out clean and the eggs are cooked all the way through.
Festive Twist: The red and green bell peppers add a festive touch to this savory casserole. You can also garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Make-Ahead Tip: This casserole can be baked the night before and reheated in the morning. Let it cool completely, cut into slices, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
7. Triple Berry Baked Oats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Serving Size: 2 x 4-inch bar
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 240
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 cups frozen mixed berries
- 1/2 cup egg substitute
- 3 cups skim milk
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 2 teaspoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray an 8×8 baking pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar substitute. Add the walnuts and berries and toss to combine.
- In a medium bowl, blend the egg substitute, milk, salt, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir to dissolve the salt.
- Pour the liquid ingredients into the oats mixture and mix.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread into an even layer.
- Place the pan in the middle of the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the center is firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes.
- Serve with 1/4 cup skim milk and a drizzle of sugar-free syrup if desired.
Festive Twist: The mixed berries provide a beautiful, festive color. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top before baking for a snowy effect.
Tip: This recipe is great for meal prep. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy a quick and healthy breakfast each morning.
8. Pumpkin-Banana Muffins
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Serving Size: 1 muffin
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups white whole wheat flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (or a brown sugar substitute)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 small banana, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with liners.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
- In a small bowl, mix together the eggs, pumpkin puree, oil, mashed banana, and vanilla.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Gently fold in the walnuts.
- Scoop the batter into the muffin tins and bake for 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Festive Twist: The pumpkin spice flavor is perfect for the holidays. You can top the muffins with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chopped pecans before baking for extra crunch and flavor.
Tip: These muffins are a great way to use up leftover pumpkin puree. They are also lower in carbs than most store-bought muffins.

9. Low-Carb Breakfast Burrito
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Serving Size: 1 burrito
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 401
- Carbohydrates: 17.5g
- Fiber: 13.2g
- Net Carbs: 4.3g
- Protein: 21.2g
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 6 low-carb tortillas
- 5 ounces cooked bacon, chopped
- 5 ounces spinach
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season to taste with pepper.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, pour in the egg mixture. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are scrambled.
- Add the spinach to a pot of boiling water until completely wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from water, drain well, and set aside.
- To assemble the burritos, add layers of scrambled egg, chopped bacon, spinach, and peppers to a low-carb tortilla. Top with shredded cheese.
- Add any desired sauce, then wrap the burrito and serve.
Festive Twist: Use red and green bell peppers for a festive touch. Serve with a side of salsa for extra flavor and color.
Make-Ahead Tip: These burritos are great for meal prep. Wrap each burrito in parchment paper, place in a sealable plastic bag, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
10. Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Servings: 3
Serving Size: 1/3 cup
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons low-calorie sugar substitute (like Splenda or stevia)
- 1/4 cup powdered peanut butter
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup skim milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, sugar substitute, and powdered peanut butter until well combined and there are no lumps.
- Stir in the chia seeds and mix well.
- Whisk in the milk and vanilla. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then whisk again.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Festive Twist: Top with a few raspberries and a sprinkle of unsweetened shredded coconut for a festive look.
Tip: This pudding is a great make-ahead breakfast or snack. It’s high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for blood sugar management and heart health.
11. Egg and Avocado Toasts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1 toast
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 12g
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 4 slices hearty whole grain bread
- 1 avocado, mashed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
Instructions:
- To poach each egg, fill a 1-cup microwaveable bowl or teacup with 1/2 cup water. Gently crack an egg into the water, making sure it’s completely submerged. Cover with a saucer and microwave on high for about 1 minute, or until the white is set and the yolk is starting to set but still soft (not runny).
- Toast the bread and spread each piece with 1/4 of the mashed avocado.
- Sprinkle the avocado with the salt (optional) and pepper. Top each piece with a poached egg. Top the egg with 1 Tbsp. Greek yogurt.
Festive Twist: Garnish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and fresh chives for a festive red and green color combination.
Tip: This recipe gets a boost of protein by adding a poached egg and a dollop of Greek yogurt. Serve with a green salad tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
12. Diabetic Blueberry Scones
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Serving Size: 1 scone
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 3 tablespoons Splenda sugar substitute (or other sugar substitute)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, rounded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, scant
- 4 tablespoons heart-healthy margarine
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries, picked over and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, grated
- 1/3 cup fat-free evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup egg white, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon egg white (optional, for brushing)
Instructions:
- Adjust oven rack to the center and preheat to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flours, 3 tablespoons of sugar substitute, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in the margarine until the largest pieces are the size of small peas.
- Stir in the blueberries and lemon zest.
- In a liquid measuring cup, whisk together the evaporated milk and 1/2 cup of egg whites.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk mixture. Stir lightly with a fork just until the dough is lightly mixed; a small amount of dry flour remaining is fine.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and press or pat it into an 8-10 inch circle.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into eight wedges.
- Transfer the scones to a baking sheet lightly sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
- Brush the tops with the optional tablespoon of egg white and sprinkle with additional sugar substitute if desired.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Transfer the scones from the baking sheet to a wire rack to cool.
Festive Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon and allspice to the flour mixture for a festive holiday flavor. You can also use a mix of cranberries and blueberries for a red and blue holiday theme.
Tip: These scones are a great way to enjoy a classic breakfast pastry with less sugar and fat. The whole wheat flour adds extra fiber.
13. Almond Flour Keto Crepes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Serving Size: 1 crepe
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 158
- Carbohydrates: 3.04g
- Fiber: 1.16g
- Net Carbs: 1.88g
- Protein: 6.28g
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated Swerve Sweetener (or other sugar substitute)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- Pinch of salt
- Oil or butter for the pan
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the cream cheese, eggs, almond flour, sweetener, almond milk, and salt. Puree until smooth and well combined. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
- Set a 10-inch skillet over medium-low heat. Add just enough oil or butter to the pan to lightly coat it.
- Once hot, add a few tablespoons of batter to the pan and swirl or spread it into a thin layer that reaches almost to the edges (8 to 9 inches in diameter).
- Cook until the edges are cooked and can be loosened with a spatula. Loosen all the way around and then lift one edge gently and work the spatula underneath to flip the crepe.
- Flip and cook on the other side until lightly browned. Remove and lay on a prepared baking sheet, then continue with the remaining batter.
Festive Twist: Fill the crepes with a mixture of fresh berries and a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream. You can also dust them with powdered sugar substitute for a snowy effect.
Tip: These crepes are very versatile and can be filled with either sweet or savory fillings. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days.
14. Crustless Spinach and Mushroom Quiche
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 37 minutes
Servings: 2
Serving Size: 1 quiche
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 200
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 17g
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon canola oil
- 6 oz Portobello mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
- 3 stalks green onion (scallion), chopped
- 2 tablespoons port
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 3/4 cup skim milk
- 1/2 cup egg substitute
- 2 tablespoons part-skim mozzarella, shredded
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/8 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray two 10-ounce ovenproof custard cups or individual pie pans with cooking spray. Place on a shallow baking sheet.
- In a large non-stick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the mushrooms and green onions for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the port. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Remove from heat. Add the spinach. Using a spoon, separate it into small pieces.
- Put the cornstarch in a medium bowl. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking to dissolve it. Whisk in the remaining ingredients and stir in the mushroom mixture. Divide between the custard cups.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the centers are puffed and set (they don’t jiggle when gently shaken). Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Festive Twist: The green from the spinach and the red from a sprinkle of paprika on top can give this dish a festive feel. You can also use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes from red bell pepper to garnish the top.
Tip: This is a great low-carb, high-protein breakfast. The individual portions make it easy to control serving sizes.
15. Keto Waffles
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 Belgian Waffles
Serving Size: 1 waffle
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 293
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon erythritol (or other sugar substitute), optional
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients into a blender. Blend until mixed through and smooth, about 1 minute.
- Grease and pre-heat a waffle iron.
- Pour batter into the waffle iron depending on the iron size.
- Cook until golden and crispy. Repeat until all the batter is finished.
Festive Twist: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a handful of fresh berries for a festive and flavorful breakfast.
Tip: These waffles can be made in a Belgian waffle maker or a standard waffle maker. They can also be frozen and toasted for a quick and easy breakfast.
16. Keto French Toast
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Net Carbs: 4g
Ingredients:
- 8 slices keto bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or other low-carb milk)
- 2 tablespoons keto brown sugar (or other sugar substitute)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar substitute, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and custard-like.
- Add butter to a non-stick pan and place it over medium heat.
- Dip the bread in the custard on both sides and let it soak for 15 seconds.
- Place the bread in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping once.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Festive Twist: Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar substitute and a few fresh cranberries for a festive look. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for a holiday spice flavor.
Tip: Use a thick, sturdy keto bread to prevent it from falling apart when soaked in the egg mixture.
17. Keto Breakfast Cookies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 10 cookies
Serving Size: 1 cookie
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 176
- Carbohydrates: 4.9g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Net Carbs: 1.8g
- Protein: 4.9g
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (30g) flaked coconut
- 1/4 cup (35g) sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup (35g) sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup (35g) pumpkin seeds
- 3 tablespoons (30g) ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup (65g) almond butter, runny
- 3 tablespoons (42g) butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sweetener (or more, to taste)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Grind all ingredients in a food processor until a sticky dough forms.
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 30g balls and press into cookies. They should be about 7 cm in diameter and 1 cm thick.
- Press a fork on the tops to create a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden.
- Let the cookies cool completely before touching or eating. They are very soft when fresh out of the oven but firm up as they cool.
Festive Twist: Add sugar-free dried cranberries and a pinch of ginger to the dough for a festive flavor.
Tip: These cookies are a great grab-and-go breakfast option. They are packed with seeds and healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied.
18. Low Carb Keto Granola
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 15
Serving Size: 1/3 cup (50g)
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 270
- Carbohydrates: 8.1g
- Fiber: 4.4g
- Net Carbs: 3.7g
- Protein: 8.8g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (150g) whole almonds
- 1 cup (100g) walnut halves
- 1 cup (100g) pecans
- 1/2 cup (65g) pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup (65g) sunflower seeds
- 1/3 cup (40g) milled flaxseed
- 1/3 cup (30g) unflavored whey protein powder (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups (90g) unsweetened coconut flakes/chips
- 1/3 cup (80g) smooth almond butter
- 1/3 cup (80ml) water
- 4 tablespoons freeze-dried raspberries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sweetener
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Pulse the almonds, walnuts, and pecans in a food processor until you have a mixture of smaller and larger pieces. Don’t over-process.
- Repeat with the pumpkin and sunflower seeds.
- Empty the nuts and seeds into a bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients (reserving 2 tablespoons of the raspberries for later) and mix with a spatula. The mixture should be sticky. If it’s still dry, add another tablespoon of water.
- Press the mixture firmly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until you have a flat surface.
- Bake the granola in the oven for 25-30 minutes until browned. Turn the baking sheet after 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool. Then break into small pieces, mix with the remaining 2 tablespoons of freeze-dried raspberries, and store in an airtight container.
Festive Twist: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, holiday flavor. The freeze-dried raspberries add a festive red color.
Tip: This granola is a great make-ahead breakfast. It’s packed with nuts and seeds, providing healthy fats and protein to keep you full.
19. Black Bean and Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 3
Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large sweet potato (about 1/2 lb), diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato, sliced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (choose gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Warm your oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat, then add onions and peppers along with a pinch of salt and sauté until softened.
- Stir in your sweet potato and sauté frequently to allow the sweet potato to cook through evenly, about 10-12 minutes. If potatoes are still too firm, add a tablespoon of water, cover your pan with a lid, and allow to cook for 4-5 minutes to finish them off.
- Once the potatoes are fork-tender, add in the garlic and sauté for an extra minute until fragrant.
- Fold in your spices and herbs and allow to sauté and coat your vegetables and potatoes well.
- Add in your sun-dried tomatoes and soy sauce and continue to sauté for 2-3 minutes to fully combine.
- Stir in your black beans, maple syrup, and kale and allow to sauté until the kale has wilted. Adjust seasonings as desired and serve.
Festive Twist: The colors of this dish are already quite festive, with the orange sweet potato, red bell pepper, and green kale. You can top with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra color and flavor.
Tip: This is a great one-pan meal that is both filling and nutritious. The sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the black beans add plant-based protein.
20. Keto Arugula Breakfast Salad
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Serving Size: 1 salad
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 642
- Carbohydrates: 12.9g
- Fiber: 6.1g
- Net Carbs: 7g
- Protein: 18.7g
Ingredients:
- 1 cup organic baby arugula
- 1.5 tablespoons marinated onion oil (or 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar)
- 2 eggs, poached
- 1/2 an avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup marinated onions
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste
- 1 slice of cooked bacon
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized bowl, toss the baby arugula in the marinated onion oil (or olive oil and red wine vinegar).
- Transfer the arugula to a plate.
- Top the arugula with the poached eggs, sliced avocado, tomatoes, and marinated onion.
- Season the eggs and avocado with kosher salt and pepper.
- Serve with a slice of bacon.
Festive Twist: The red cherry tomatoes and green arugula already give this salad a festive look. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese for a touch of white.
Tip: This is a great way to get in your greens first thing in the morning. The healthy fats from the avocado and the protein from the eggs and bacon will keep you full and satisfied.
21. Savory Yogurt Bowl
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Serving Size: 1 bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 2 hard-boiled eggs
- 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
- 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt to taste
- Za’atar or Dukkah, for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Add 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt to the bottom of two serving bowls.
- Grate one hard-boiled egg onto each bowl using the largest side of a box grater (or chop them and add).
- Top with the chickpeas and fresh veggies.
- Add a drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a good sprinkle of za’atar or dukkah.
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to one night.
Festive Twist: The red tomatoes and green cucumbers already give this bowl a festive look. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh dill for extra color and flavor.
Tip: This is a great make-ahead breakfast that is packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices.
A Note on Carb Counting
Carb counting is a useful tool for managing blood sugar levels. For individuals with diabetes, one carb serving is typically about 15 grams of carbohydrates [2]. A balanced breakfast usually contains about 45-60 grams of carbs, or 3-4 carb servings [3].
Here is an example of a diabetic-friendly breakfast that aligns with these guidelines:
| Food Item | Amount | Carbohydrates (grams) |
|---|---|---|
| Rolled Oats | 1/2 cup | 28 |
| Low-Fat Milk | 1 cup | 13 |
| Banana (medium) | 2/3 | 20 |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1/4 cup | 4 |
| Total | 65 |
This sample breakfast provides approximately 4 carb servings and is a great example of a balanced and satisfying meal to start your day.
Conclusion
With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy a delicious and festive Christmas Eve breakfast while still managing your diabetes effectively. By focusing on protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and by being mindful of carbohydrate portions, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and supportive of your health goals. We hope these recipes inspire you to have a happy and healthy holiday season.
References
[1] Healthline. (2025, September 26). 14 Best Breakfast Foods for People with Diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/breakfast-foods-for-diabetics
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, May 15). Carb Counting. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/healthy-eating/carb-counting-manage-blood-sugar.html
[3] Taste of Home. (2024, April 29). 39 Delicious Brunch Recipes for Diabetics. Retrieved from https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/brunch-recipes-diabetics/

