Nut Butters & Alternatives

Peanut butter, a long-standing staple in American kitchens, has a myriad of uses, from comforting PB&Js to sneaky snack spoon raids. However, for those with a peanut allergy or dodgy digestive systems prone to inflammation, fret not! There exists a treasure trove of delectable alternatives awaiting your taste buds' discovery.

Cashew Butter (my favorite)

I appreciate the texture and flavor of cashew butter for its mildness compared to other alternatives, especially when used in baking recipes. Cashews and almonds are generally easier on digestion, although they may still pose issues for certain individuals. When selecting cashew butter, prioritize options without additional ingredients like oils or sugars.

Almond Butter

Almond butter serves as a commendable substitute for peanut butter. Personal taste dictates the preference between nut butters. Similar to cashew butter, it is important to remain attentive to the potential inclusion of added ingredients in store-bought almond butter.

Sunflower Seed Butter

Sunflower seed butter is ideal for individuals with nut allergies or difficulties digesting nuts. It offers a distinct flavor compared to nut butter, which one can easily acclimate to. When incorporating sunflower seed butter into baking recipes, note that it may interact with baking soda, resulting in a green tint. To counter this reaction, include a teaspoon of raw apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.

Coconut Butter

Coconut butter differs from other alternatives as it retains a coconut-like appearance. Solidifying in cooler temperatures, it requires stirring before use. Substituting coconut butter for conventional nut butter, particularly in baked goods, can be challenging. Consider utilizing it on toast, sweet potato, or pancakes for better results.

What to Avoid: Nut butter that contains added sugars, oils, and preservatives.