We’ve talked in depth about how to enjoy nuts on a low carb diet — and, like other items on your keto food list, some choices need more caution than others. So, are cashews keto enough to enjoy regularly? Let’s take a closer look at carbs in cashews and whether you can enjoy cashews on keto. Need more quick reference tools for your low carb lifestyle? Download these keto cheat sheets instantly!
Are Cashews Keto Friendly?
Sadly, cashews and keto just don’t mix. Carbs in cashews are too high to enjoy in normal serving sizes. If they’re not keto, are cashews low carb? Yes, you could more easily fit these nuts into a low carb diet. (See the differences between keto and low carb here.)
How Many Carbs In Cashews?
Do cashews have carbs? They definitely do… and cashew nuts carbs are high relative to other nut options. So, how many carbs do cashews have? In just one ounce of raw nuts, the cashew carb count is 8.6 grams [*]. What about net carbs in cashews? Since they have a small amount of fiber, one ounce of cashew nuts has 7.6 grams net carbs.
Cashew Milk Carbs
Is cashew milk low carb? Yes, cashew milk is a more low carb and keto friendly milk option. This cashew milk, for example, contains just 2 grams of total carbs per cup. Look for an unsweetened variety, or just make your own sugar-free nut milk at home.
Carbs In Cashew Butter
Can you eat cashews on keto when ground into nut butter? Not really. In a one-tablespoon serving, carbs in cashew butter are 4.9 grams total and 4.4. grams net. That adds up quickly, since it’s more common to have 2 tablespoons or more at a time. Cashew butter would more easily fit into a low carb diet.
Cashews Substitutes
Carbs in cashews may be too high on keto, but you can easily substitute them. Try these keto cashew alternatives for snacking or recipes:
Other keto nuts and nut butters – There are many options! Sunflower seeds – These make a delicious nut-free cashew swap. Try them in this keto granola. Tahini – Use this sesame seed paste in place of cashew butter. Use fewer cashews – Cashews make the most sense as a garnish on keto. Try a few chopped nuts on top of keto pad Thai.
Conclusion: Can You Have Cashews On Keto?
Cashews and keto simply aren’t a good combination, because carbs in cashews are too high for a typical serving of nuts. If you miss cashews on keto, try cashew milk or a different substitution for snacking and recipes.
