Nutrition Q & A
What are some alternatives to peanut butter if you have a peanut allergy?
Just about any type of nut can be made into a nut butter. It's as simple as grinding nuts in a food processor until they form a paste. Some nut butters will be creamy, others somewhat grainy. Higher-fat nuts, such as macadamia, will make a smoother but thinner butter. Almond and cashew butters work well for sandwiches or spread on apple slices.
Homemade nut butters have a short shelf-life, so make them in small batches. One cup of nuts will make about 1/2 cup nut butter. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Commercial nut butters are also available. Be sure to check the label for allergen labeling that identifies common allergens in products, and read the ingredient list before purchasing.