Homemade peanut butter

You may think of peanut butter as more of a childhood staple, but it’s also a great source of protein for adults.

Surprisingly, it may also be a great for weight control: one study found that peanut eaters tend not to overeat their daily calories. As a source of antioxidants, peanuts- according to recent studies- may rival some fruits.

By making your own peanut butter you can be sure to avoid the trans-fats of some commercial brands. Plus, it’s a way to avoid all those containers that tend to pile up if you’re a fan of the spread.

Making peanut butter from peanuts is very easy. All it takes is a food processor and peanuts, though a bit of peanut oil (or even olive oil) can help the process. Salt is optional.

Homemade Peanut Butter

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shelled peanuts (roasted or plain, depending on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon peanut or vegetable oil* (optional with food processor)
• Additional add-ins: Try adding honey or cinnamon if you want to get creative

Directions if using food processor:

1. Put ingredients in food processor and blend for a couple minutes.
2. If the ground peanuts begins to stick to the sides, stop the processor and scrape it down.
3. You will see the chunks of peanuts form a ball and disappear as the mixture forms a paste.
4. If you want crunchy peanut butter, add chopped nuts to the creamy mixture.

Directions using a blender (this method is more difficult):

1. Put ingredients in the blender and blend.
2. If the peanuts begin to stick to side, stop the blender and scape it down.
3. The peanuts will become a paste after a few minutes: This may take an extra minute or two than the food processor version.

*Notes on using added oil: 
With the food processor it is possible to make peanut butter without oil, but it may take more mixing time. With either the food processor or the blender, if either machine seems stuck and the peanuts aren’t getting smaller, simply add a bit more oil.

Store in a closed container in the refrigerator for up to two months. Like all natural peanut butter, oil separation will occur during storage. Simply mix with a knife before using.

Peanut butter, no oil:

Homemade peanut butter with oil:

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