Would you believe that you can make the most decadent, creamy, rich, and flavorful Cashew Butter with only one ingredient? I’m here to tell you, you absolutely can! I’m about to share with you just how easy it is, and this will be your new favorite nut butter recipe! Stay tuned till the end of the post where I’ll tell you all the amazing things you can add as mix in’s if you’d like to create other delicious flavors as well!
To make homemade Cashew Butter, you will only need two main things, salted cashews and a food processor! This easy-to-follow recipe is simple yet flavorful and takes no time at all to whip up.
Ingredients:
1-3 cups Salted Cashews
*The amount of cashews you can use will depend on the size of food processor you have.
*Unsalted Cashews work great as well, you may just want to add a dash of salt at the end of the blending process for some added flavor.
Instructions:
To get started, place the cashews in a food processor with the lid on. Pulse the cashews until they are finely ground.
*(You can see the different stages of the blending process through the photos on the blog.)
After they are finely ground, blend on low/medium speed, they will start to clump up, continue the blending process until they turn into a smooth and creamy butter. This process may take 5-10 minutes, so be patient and keep processing until you have achieved a smooth consistency. (Once the natural oils start to release from the cashews it creates a smooth consistency.)
*For Unsalted Cashews, once the cashews have been turned into a smooth butter, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Mix it well and taste test to make sure it is to your liking.
Store in a jar or air tight container. Cashew Butter can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 months, for several weeks at room temperature, or you can freeze it for up to 6 months!
Making your own nut butter at home is a great way to save money and control the quality of the ingredients. Give this easy and delicious recipe a try and see just how simple it can be to create your own creamy Cashew Butter!
Why use Cashews? Let’s talk about some of the benefits.
Firstly, cashews are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats that are essential for our body’s overall health. They are also rich in minerals such as copper, magnesium, and zinc, which play a critical role in maintaining healthy bones and improving brain function.
Additionally, cashews offer numerous cardiovascular benefits, including the ability to lower high blood pressure levels, reduce LDL cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of developing heart disease. They also contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the risk of chronic inflammation, which is linked to numerous diseases such as cancer, arthritis, and diabetes.
Apart from that, cashews are also known for their skin and hair health benefits. They contain compounds that help to improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and strengthen hair follicles. Moreover, cashews are also an excellent source of antioxidants that help to fight against free radicals, preventing cellular damage, and promoting youthful-looking skin, who doesn’t want that?!
The benefits of cashews are plentiful, and incorporating them into your diet can significantly boost your health and overall well-being. So, why not make cashews a part of your daily routine?
Cashew butter is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in various healthy ways. Here are some different ways you can use it:
1. Spread it on Toast or an English Muffin: Enjoy cashew butter on whole grain toast, or and english muffin for a delicious and satisfying breakfast or snack. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates will keep you feeling full and energized.
2. Add it to Smoothies: Blend cashew butter into your favorite smoothie recipes for an extra creamy texture and nutty flavor. It pairs well with fruits like bananas, berries, and mangoes, as well as leafy greens like kale and spinach.
3. Mix into Oatmeal or Yogurt: Stir cashew butter into a bowl of warm oatmeal or creamy yogurt for added flavor and richness. You can also top with fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey.
4. Use as a Dip: Use cashew butter as a dip for sliced apples, carrots, or whole grain crackers. It’s a nutritious alternative to traditional dips and spreads, providing protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied between meals.
5. Incorporate into Salad Dressings: Use cashew butter as a base for homemade salad dressings. Combine it with ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to create creamy and flavorful dressings that will elevate your salads.
6. Make Energy Bites or Protein Bars: Combine cashew butter with oats, nuts, , and dried fruit to make homemade energy bites or bars. These make for convenient and nutritious snacks on the go.
7. Use in Baking: Substitute cashew butter for other nut butters or fats in baking recipes to create cookies, muffins, or brownies. It adds moisture, richness, and a subtle nutty flavor to your baked goods.
Remember to consume cashew butter in moderation because it is calorie-dense and does have a high fat content. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet, along with a variety of other nutritious food!
Making homemade cashew butter is not only simple but also allows for customization with different mix-ins to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Here are some fun ideas for mix-ins:
1. Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt can enhance the nuttiness of cashews and balance their flavor.
2. Cinnamon: Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon for a nice hint of warmth and spice.
3. Honey or Maple Syrup: For a touch of sweetness, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the cashew butter once it is done blending, stir to combine.
4. Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract can add depth and warmth to the cashew butter.
5. Chia Seeds or Flaxseeds: Boost the nutritional content of the cashew butter by adding chia seeds or ground flaxseeds for some extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can add a tropical flavor and a nice crunch to the cashew butter.
7. Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to add complexity to the flavor profile.
8. Dark Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist on classic cashew butter, with a nice added texture.
When adding mix-ins, start with small amounts and then you can adjust to your liking. Be mindful of the texture and consistency of the cashew butter, as too many mix-ins can affect its spreadability. Enjoy your homemade cashew butter on toast, fruit, or as a dip, and store any leftovers in an airtight container. Get creative and have fun with it!
We also have another delicious recipe for Cinnamon Roll Energy Bites that is a must try! You can find it here:
I’ll link our favorite glass containers to store them in below!
I can’t wait to hear from you when you’ve tried this recipe! Be sure to give me a like/comment, and follow me for more simplified meal prep recipes!
You can find me on Instagram and Pinterest as well @livingsimplybykalani! Happy Cooking!
