Homemade Almond Butter

When properly processed, the oils found in almonds are magically released and before you know it, you have homemade almond butter.

Patience is definitely the secret ingredient when it comes to making almond butter. 

You need about twenty minutes worth and a food processor (or a high-speed blender) to properly grind the almonds into a soft and creamy texture. 

Once the transformation is complete, you can immediately begin enjoying your freshly made nut butter. 

Spread it on a slice of banana bread or banana muffins, or if you prefer, slather it on pancakes or swirl it in your oatmeal breakfast bowl. It also makes for a healthy snack when combining it with fresh fruit, especially apples.

Did you know you can also make gluten-free cookies with it?

As you can see, there are no limits to how you can use this wonderful spread. 

The truth is that you can just have a spoonful or two of this stuff, straight from the jar.

Seriously, you won’t believe how amazing it tastes. 

If you have ever wondered how to make almond butter from scratch, you’ve come to the right place!

This physical transformation begins with whole roasted almonds and as they continue to be processed, they form one big clump. As the natural oils continue to be released, this clump transforms into a creamy paste. Before you know it, you have spreadable nut butter. 

How to make almond butter

Place 3 cups (about one pound) of slightly warm roasted almonds in the food processor.

Process nuts at medium-high speed for about 15-20 minutes.

Scrape the sides of the bowl every couple of minutes.

Be patient 🙂

If desired, add a pinch of salt at the end of the process.

Transfer to a sterile mason type jar, and refrigerate.

Let’s take a closer look at the process

1. Begin by pulsing the almonds for a few minutes until you obtain the texture of almond flour. 
2. Continue to process for a few more minutes. Notice the ground almonds “sticking” to the sides of the bowl. Scrape down the sides.
3. The ground almonds begin to clump together and move as a mass. This is a direct result of the oils being released. 
4. After a few more minutes of processing, the mixture begins to take the form of a spread, but it is very grainy. 
5. Continue to process, stopping if necessary to prevent the food processor from overheating. 
6. At the end of the process, the texture is smooth and creamy.

Notice how the almond butter has a fluid consistency. This is due to the release of warm almond oil. This is the best time to “pour” the almond butter into sterile mason jars. Allow to come to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator.

Tips

• Throughout the whole process, allow your food processor to rest every few minutes to prevent the motor from overheating. 
• Roasting the almonds might seem like an extra step, but you will be rewarded with a burst of flavor. 
• As all ovens do not heat up the same way, the roasting times for the almonds may vary. 
• DO NOT PROCESS the almonds if they are still hot as you run the risk of damaging your high-speed blender.
• When processing warm roasted almonds, the breakdown of the oils occurs more quickly. It is therefore not necessary to add any oil since the almonds release their own oils. 
• Be patient. Depending on the type of food processor you have, it can take up to 20 minutes for the almonds to transform into smooth, thick and creamy almond butter.
• Scrape down the almond butter throughout the process ensures an even transformation. 
• Use a sterile jar and lid to maximize the storage period. 

How to roast almonds

• Adjust the oven rack to the middle of the oven.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the almonds in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and roast for 10 -15 minutes or until fragrant.
• Move almonds around a few times while they are roasting.
• When done, transfer to a wire rack and cool down for about 10 minutes. They should still be warm. 

How do I store roasted almond butter?

Once you have achieved the right consistency, transfer to sterile jars and allow to come to room temperature before refrigerating. Almond butter can be refrigerated for up to one month. 

Can I make crunchy almond butter?

Yes! Simply mix in a handful of chopped roasted almonds to your nut butter. 

Can I add condiments like maple syrup and honey?

Unfortunately, the addition of these liquids (including vanilla extract) may cause the almond butter to seize resulting in clumps of nut butter. 

Recipe inspiration

Although it was many decades ago, I can still remember how excited I was the first time I made almond butter with my brand new Cuisinart food processor.

This natural transformation still amazes me today. 

Although I no longer have the same appliance, I continue to enjoy making fresh almond butter. The truth is that I love all nut butter, especially this chocolate hazelnut butter. 

As you can see from my list of ingredients, I do not add any oil. That’s my personal preference. There are some recipes that will. If desired, go ahead and experiment.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention, this is a great weekend project to do with the kids.

Have fun!

THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.

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Ciao for now,

Maria 

★★★★★ If you have made this almond butter recipe, I would love to hear about it in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!

This post was originally published on October 30, 2014, and republished on January 7, 2021, with updated content and photos.