If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious alternative to store-bought peanut butter, homemade peanut butter is the answer. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a creamy, rich spread that’s perfect for everything from toast to smoothies or even baking. This recipe allows you to customize the sweetness and texture, making it a great option for anyone who loves fresh, homemade spreads.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making your own peanut butter means you control the ingredients. It’s a much healthier alternative to most store-bought versions that often contain added sugars, oils, and preservatives. Not only is homemade peanut butter free of unnecessary additives, but it also tastes fresh and has a creamy, smooth consistency that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you prefer it smooth or with a hint of sweetness, this recipe allows you to personalize the flavor to suit your taste. It’s the perfect pantry staple for spreading on toast, adding to smoothies, or enjoying by the spoonful.
Ingredients
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2 cups roasted peanuts (unsalted)
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1-2 tablespoons peanut oil (or any neutral oil)
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
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1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Place the roasted peanuts in a food processor and process for 2-3 minutes. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
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Continue processing until the peanuts break down into a smooth and creamy consistency. If the peanut butter is too thick, add a tablespoon of peanut oil at a time until the desired texture is achieved.
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If you prefer sweetened peanut butter, add honey or maple syrup and blend again. You can also add salt if you like a salted version.
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Transfer the peanut butter to a clean jar or container and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 10 servings (about 2 tablespoons each)
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cooking Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Crunchy Peanut Butter: If you like a bit of texture, reserve a small handful of roasted peanuts, chop them roughly, and stir them into the peanut butter after processing.
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Chocolate Peanut Butter: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or melted chocolate to give the peanut butter a rich, chocolaty flavor.
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Spiced Peanut Butter: For a little kick, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a spiced version.
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Maple Peanut Butter: Swap the honey for maple syrup to create a nutty, slightly sweet peanut butter that works wonderfully on pancakes or waffles.
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Vegan Peanut Butter: This recipe is already vegan-friendly if you opt for maple syrup and skip the honey.
Storage/Reheating
Store your homemade peanut butter in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The oils may separate over time, so give it a good stir before using. No need to reheat it, as it can be spread directly from the fridge, but if you prefer it at room temperature, just take it out 10-15 minutes before using.
FAQs
How long can homemade peanut butter last?
Homemade peanut butter can last up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I make peanut butter without oil?
Yes, you can make peanut butter without oil if you have a high-powered food processor. However, the texture might be a bit thicker, and the peanuts may take longer to process into a smooth consistency.
Can I use unsweetened peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer to keep the peanut butter unsweetened, simply omit the honey or maple syrup.
How do I make crunchy peanut butter?
To make crunchy peanut butter, process the peanuts as usual but reserve some of them to chop roughly. Stir them into the smooth peanut butter for added texture.
Can I use other types of nuts for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute roasted almonds, cashews, or other nuts in place of peanuts for a different flavor.
What’s the best way to add sweetness to homemade peanut butter?
For sweetness, you can use honey, maple syrup, or even a touch of agave syrup. Adjust the amount to your preference.
Is it necessary to add salt to homemade peanut butter?
Salt is optional but can enhance the flavor, especially if you’re making unsweetened peanut butter. You can add as much or as little as you like.
Can I make peanut butter without a food processor?
A high-powered blender might work as an alternative if you don’t have a food processor, but it may take longer to achieve the same smooth consistency.
How can I make my peanut butter extra creamy?
Adding a tablespoon or two of peanut oil will help make your peanut butter extra creamy and smooth. Be sure to process it long enough to get the right texture.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure to adjust the oil and sweetener to maintain the right consistency and flavor.
Conclusion
Homemade peanut butter is a fantastic, healthier alternative to store-bought varieties. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a fresh, creamy spread that’s tailored to your taste. Whether you like it smooth, crunchy, sweet, or savory, this recipe is a versatile and delicious treat for your pantry. Best of all, you can feel good about knowing exactly what’s in your peanut butter!
Print
Homemade Peanut Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Learn how to make homemade peanut butter with just a few simple ingredients! This easy and healthy recipe uses roasted peanuts, a bit of peanut oil, and optional sweetness from honey or maple syrup. Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to smoothies, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. Homemade peanut butter is fresh, customizable, and a deliciously creamy alternative to store-bought options.
Ingredients
2 cups roasted peanuts (unsalted)
1–2 tablespoons peanut oil (or any neutral oil)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
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Place the roasted peanuts in a food processor and process for 2-3 minutes. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
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Continue processing until the peanuts break down into a smooth and creamy consistency. If the peanut butter is too thick, add a tablespoon of peanut oil at a time until the desired texture is achieved.
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If you prefer sweetened peanut butter, add honey or maple syrup, and blend again. You can also add salt for a salted version.
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Transfer the peanut butter to a clean jar or container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Notes:
Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less honey/maple syrup to your taste.
If you’d like a chunkier peanut butter, process for a shorter time and leave some peanut pieces intact.
This recipe can be made with different oils like coconut or almond oil for variation
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack, Spread
- Method: Food Processor
- Cuisine: American
