Creamy Keto Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe with Easy Brown Sugar Glaze

Let me tell you, the scent of creamy spinach mingling with tender artichokes, all wrapped up in a luscious, cheesy dip, wafting from my oven, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I baked this creamy keto spinach artichoke dip with brown sugar glaze, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. It all started years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, watching my grandma whip up her famous spinach dip for family gatherings. But honestly, this version? It’s a keto-friendly twist that I wish I’d discovered a long time ago.

My family couldn’t stop sneaking spoonfuls off the cooling tray (and I can’t really blame them). This dip has become a staple at our potlucks and cozy nights in, offering pure, nostalgic comfort without the carb overload. You know what makes this recipe dangerously easy? The secret touch of a brown sugar glaze that adds a subtle, sweet contrast, making it perfect for impressing guests or just brightening up your Pinterest cookie board of favorites. Whether you’re looking for a keto-friendly crowd-pleaser or a sweet treat for your kids, this creamy keto spinach artichoke dip with brown sugar glaze is going to be your go-to. I’ve tested it multiple times in the name of research, of course, and it never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this creamy keto spinach artichoke dip with brown sugar glaze isn’t just another appetizer—it’s a genuinely crave-worthy dish that brings together the best of flavor, texture, and ease. Here’s why it’s a winner in my kitchen:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery runs needed; everything’s either pantry staples or easy to find keto-friendly items.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Great for brunch, potlucks, cozy dinners, or holiday mornings when you want something comforting yet fancy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike, even those who aren’t on keto.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The silky creamy texture paired with the slight tang of artichokes and the sweet brown sugar glaze is next-level comfort food.

What sets this recipe apart isn’t just the low-carb spin but the perfectly balanced seasoning and that little brown sugar glaze surprise. It’s the kind of dip that makes you close your eyes after the first bite, savoring every creamy, savory, and slightly sweet mouthful. I’ve crafted this recipe after many trials, tweaking the ratios to get the texture just right—smooth yet hearty, rich yet light. It’s comfort food reimagined for those who want to indulge without guilt, and honestly, it’s perfect for impressing guests without any stress.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This creamy keto spinach artichoke dip with brown sugar glaze uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and a satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these you probably already have in your kitchen or can grab easily at any grocery store.

• For the Dip:
• 10 oz fresh spinach (about 280 g), chopped and wilted (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 14 oz canned artichoke hearts (about 400 g), drained and chopped
• 8 oz cream cheese (225 g), softened (I recommend Philadelphia for best texture)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml), full fat
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (120 ml), use keto-friendly brand
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100 g), freshly shredded works best
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g), adds a rich, nutty flavor
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (adds depth)
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
• 2 tbsp brown sugar substitute (like Swerve or erythritol-based sweetener), packed
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

If you want a dairy-free version, swap cream cheese and sour cream with coconut cream alternatives, and use dairy-free cheese. For a gluten-free twist (though this recipe is naturally low-carb and gluten-free), just double-check your mayo and seasonings. In summer, you can swap fresh spinach with baby kale for a different texture, and frozen artichokes work fine if fresh aren’t available.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – I use a medium glass bowl for combining ingredients and a smaller one for the glaze
• Skillet or saucepan – to wilt fresh spinach if using fresh
• Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements make a difference here
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing everything smoothly
• Oven-safe baking dish – an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) casserole dish works perfectly
• Optional: food processor – handy if you want a smoother texture by pulsing artichokes and spinach

If you don’t have an oven-safe dish, you can use a cast-iron skillet or any ceramic dish that fits in your oven. For melting butter or the glaze, a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan works great. I’ve found a silicone spatula super helpful for scraping every bit out of the bowl, and they’re budget-friendly too.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for a bubbly, golden dip.
2. Prepare the spinach: If using fresh, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chopped spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then squeeze out excess moisture by pressing spinach in a fine mesh sieve or with paper towels. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
3. Chop the artichoke hearts: Drain and roughly chop. You want bite-sized pieces but not too chunky.
4. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Add cheeses and flavorings: Stir in shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute evenly.
6. Fold in the spinach and artichokes: Gently mix the prepped spinach and artichokes into the creamy base. Make sure everything is evenly combined but don’t overmix to keep a nice texture.
7. Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared oven-safe dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for even browning.
8. Prepare the brown sugar glaze: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar substitute, and cinnamon (if using). Stir until combined.
9. Brush the glaze over the dip: Lightly coat the top of the dip with the glaze. This adds a subtle sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the savory dip.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes: Bake until the top is bubbly and golden brown, and you can smell that inviting aroma filling your kitchen.
11. Cool slightly before serving: Let the dip rest for 5 minutes; it thickens a bit and is safer to scoop.

If the top starts browning too fast, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking. Watch for bubbling edges and golden top as your cues that it’s ready. The dip should be creamy and warm inside, with a slightly caramelized glaze on top.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

When making this creamy keto spinach artichoke dip with brown sugar glaze, a few tricks can really make the difference. First, squeezing out the water from your spinach is crucial—too much moisture makes the dip runny and soggy. I learned that the hard way on my first try, and trust me, it’s worth the extra squeeze.

Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps; cold cream cheese can be stubborn and create a patchy texture. I like to soften mine in short bursts in the microwave (about 10 seconds) if I’m in a hurry, but be careful not to melt it completely.

Don’t skip the brown sugar glaze! It’s a simple step but adds a layer of flavor that keeps this dip from being just another cheesy blend. If you want to keep carbs super low, use a powdered erythritol mix—it melts nicely and doesn’t taste bitter.

Timing matters, too. While the dip bakes, prep your dippers—keto-friendly crackers, celery sticks, or pork rinds work great. Multitask by washing dishes or prepping your next meal while the oven does the work.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is flexible and easy to customize for different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations I’ve tried and loved:

• Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for a smoky heat that wakes up your taste buds.
• Herb Freshness: Stir in fresh chopped basil, parsley, or dill before baking for a bright herbal note that balances the richness.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan mayo, and nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Swap the brown sugar glaze for a maple syrup drizzle if you’re not strictly keto.
• Different Cheese Blend: Swap mozzarella with gouda or cheddar for a sharper flavor profile.
• Slow Cooker Adaptation: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker, cook on low for 2 hours, then broil the top with glaze for a few minutes to caramelize.

Once, I tossed in some roasted red peppers for a sweet-smoky twist that my family couldn’t stop talking about. Don’t be afraid to experiment—this dip is forgiving and always delicious.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this creamy keto spinach artichoke dip warm or at room temperature with an assortment of keto-friendly dippers like sliced cucumbers, bell pepper strips, or almond crackers. It pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.

Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring gently to keep it smooth. The glaze may soften, but the flavor only deepens. You can also reheat in a small oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Flavors tend to meld even more after a day, so if you can wait, it’s worth it. Just give it a good stir before serving again. This dip is perfect for making ahead of time when planning parties or family gatherings.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This creamy keto spinach artichoke dip with brown sugar glaze is low in carbs (about 3-4g net carbs per serving), making it ideal for ketogenic and low-carb diets. The healthy fats come from cream cheese, mayonnaise, and butter, providing sustained energy without blood sugar spikes.

Spinach is rich in iron, fiber, and vitamins A and C, while artichokes add antioxidants and digestive benefits. The cheeses contribute calcium and protein, helping keep you full longer. If dairy is a concern, swap for plant-based alternatives to keep it gut-friendly.

Just a heads-up: this recipe contains dairy and garlic, so it may not suit those with allergies to those ingredients. But overall, it’s a wholesome, satisfying choice that balances indulgence with nutrition.

Conclusion

In short, this creamy keto spinach artichoke dip with brown sugar glaze is a winner for anyone wanting a rich, savory snack that’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor. You can tweak it to match your taste buds, dietary needs, or the occasion, making it a versatile addition to your recipe box. I love how this dip feels like a warm hug on a plate—creamy, cheesy, with a sweet little surprise on top that keeps you coming back for more.

Give it a try, share your adaptations, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments! Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to be a staple for family gatherings, gifting, or just treating yourself. You’re going to want to bookmark this one.

FAQs About Creamy Keto Spinach Artichoke Dip with Brown Sugar Glaze

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dip up to a day in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake and glaze just before serving.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use full-fat ricotta or mascarpone for a slightly different texture, or dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.

What are the best keto-friendly dippers?

Try sliced cucumbers, bell pepper strips, celery sticks, pork rinds, or keto crackers to keep carbs low.

Can I freeze this dip?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

What if I don’t want the brown sugar glaze?

The dip is delicious without it, but the glaze adds a lovely sweet contrast. You can skip or replace it with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

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