The Best Easy Homemade Peanut Butter Recipe
Creamy, Nutty, and Deliciously Simple – Make Your Own Peanut Butter at Home
There’s something magical about homemade peanut butter—it’s creamy, rich, and filled with fresh nutty goodness that store-bought versions just can’t compete with. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a food processor, you can whip up your jar of peanut butter in no time.
This recipe is perfect for everyday use—spread it on toast, drizzle it over oatmeal, or use it in your favourite baked goods. What’s even better? You can control the flavour and texture. Want it smooth? Done. Prefer it chunky? No problem.
You can even tweak the sweetness and salt levels to suit your taste. If your peanuts are raw, you’ll need to roast them for the best flavour. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the peanuts evenly on a baking sheet, and roast them for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning.
Let the peanuts cool completely before processing—this prevents the oils from overheating during blending. Place the roasted peanuts into your food processor or high-speed blender. Begin processing at medium speed. After 1-2 minutes, the peanuts will break down into a crumbly texture.
Scrape down the sides with a spatula as needed. Keep blending. After about 3-5 minutes, the peanuts will release their natural oils and form a thick, smooth paste. If the mixture is too thick, add the neutral oil 1 teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
If you prefer slightly sweet peanut butter, add honey, maple syrup, or sugar now. Blend for another 30 seconds to combine. Taste the peanut butter and adjust as needed. Add a pinch of salt if it’s bland or more sweetener if desired.
For chunky peanut butter, stir in some crushed peanuts by hand after the blending process. Transfer the peanut butter to an airtight jar or container. Smooth the top with a spoon and seal tightly.
Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Expert Tips for Success;
Use High-Quality Peanuts: The better the peanuts, the better the flavour. Look for fresh, high-quality roasted peanuts.
Go Slow with the Oil: Add oil gradually to avoid overly runny peanut butter. Some peanuts may not need additional oil if they’re naturally oily.
Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even cocoa powder for unique variations.
Avoid Overheating: If your food processor gets too hot, pause and let it cool down to prevent the natural oils from separating.
Customization Ideas and Variations;
Chunky Peanut Butter: Reserve 1/4 cup of the roasted peanuts, crush them, and stir into the smooth peanut butter at the end.
Nut Blends: Mix in other nuts like almonds or cashews for a multi-nut butter.
Sweetened Peanut Butter: Add honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup for sweetness. A pinch of cinnamon also pairs beautifully.
Flavored Peanut Butter: For a chocolate twist, blend in 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder. For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chilli flakes.
Dietary Adjustments: Use coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavour or avoid added sweeteners for a sugar-free version.
Serving Suggestions;
Homemade peanut butter is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
Spread it on whole-grain toast and top with sliced bananas or strawberries.
Stir it into oatmeal or yoghurt for a protein-packed breakfast.
Use it as a dip for apple slices, celery sticks, or pretzels.
Incorporate it into baked goods like cookies, brownies, or granola bars.
Add it to smoothies for a creamy, nutty flavour.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips;
Storage: Keep your peanut butter in a clean, airtight jar. If stored at room temperature, stir occasionally as the oils may separate slightly. Refrigeration helps maintain consistency and freshness.
Reheating: Peanut butter thickens in the fridge, so let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before using, or warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Make-Ahead Tip: Roast your peanuts in advance and store them in an airtight container. This way, you can make peanut butter in under 10 minutes when needed.
Making your own peanut butter at home is easier than you think, and it’s a fun way to enjoy a healthier, more flavorful alternative to store-bought options. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy (or chunky!) spread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. Plus, it’s a recipe you can customize endlessly to suit your taste.
Once you’ve experienced the fresh, nutty flavour of homemade peanut butter, you might never go back to the jarred version again. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share with loved ones!
Ingredients;
- 2 cups (300g) roasted peanuts (unsalted or salted)
- 1-2 tablespoons neutral oil (peanut, vegetable, or canola)
- 1 tablespoon honey, maple syrup, or sugar (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)