Introduction
The Monte Cristo sandwich, a luxurious variation of the French Croque Monsieur, emerged in American restaurants during the 1950s and gained widespread popularity after Disneyland began serving it at their Blue Bayou restaurant. This keto adaptation maintains the decadent spirit of the original while catering to modern low-carb lifestyles. Originally created as a way to elevate leftover ham and cheese, the Monte Cristo has evolved from its humble beginnings to become a beloved brunch staple. This version uses innovative keto-friendly ingredients to recreate the magic of the traditional recipe, proving that dietary restrictions don't mean sacrificing classic flavors.
Ingredients
• 4 slices keto-friendly bread (preferably almond flour-based)
• 4 slices Swiss cheese (about "1 oz" each)
• 4 slices deli turkey breast (about "2 oz" total)
• 4 slices black forest ham (about "2 oz" total)
• 2 large eggs
• "1/4 cup" heavy cream
• "1 tbsp" butter for frying
• "2 tbsp" powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
• "2 tbsp" sugar-free maple syrup
• "1/4 tsp" vanilla extract
• "1/8 tsp" ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
Step 1:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Step 2:
Layer each sandwich: Place one slice of Swiss cheese on a piece of keto bread, top with 2 slices each of turkey and ham, another slice of Swiss cheese, and cover with second slice of bread. Repeat for second sandwich.
Step 3:
Heat large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add half of the butter and let melt.
Step 4:
Carefully dip each assembled sandwich into egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Ensure both sides are well coated.
Step 5:
Cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted. Add remaining butter when flipping.
Step 6:
Dust with powdered sweetener and serve with sugar-free maple syrup on the side.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While best served fresh, you can assemble sandwiches ahead and dip/cook just before serving.
Q: Why is my sandwich soggy?
A: Avoid soaking the bread too long in egg mixture and ensure pan is hot enough before cooking.
Q: Can I freeze this sandwich?
A: Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the bread and cheese.
• Choose thick-cut deli meats for better texture and flavor.
• Any sugar substitute can be used, but powdered versions work best for dusting.
• Swiss cheese can be substituted with Gruyere or provolone.
• Store-bought keto bread can be used, or make your own with almond flour.
• Look for sugar-free maple syrup specifically labeled as keto-friendly.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using keto bread.
• For best results, all ingredients should be at room temperature before assembly.
Serve hot, dusted with powdered sweetener and sugar-free maple syrup on the side. Cut diagonally for traditional presentation.
Best consumed immediately. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat in skillet or toaster oven.
Prepare egg mixture while heating the skillet. Have all ingredients at room temperature for even cooking.
- Don't oversoak the bread in egg mixture to prevent it from falling apart
- Keep heat at medium to avoid burning the outside before cheese melts
- Press sandwich gently with spatula while cooking for better melding of ingredients
Try using different combinations of deli meats or swap Swiss cheese for Gruyere. For extra indulgence, add a layer of sugar-free raspberry jam.
Serve with coffee, tea, or sparkling water with lemon. A side of fresh berries complements the sweet-savory profile.
Year Round
Contains eggs, dairy (Swiss cheese, heavy cream), tree nuts (if using almond flour bread). Check deli meat ingredients for additional allergens.
