🥜 Nuts & Seeds

Can I Substitute Raw Cashews for Cashew Butter? Complete Guide

Learn if you can substitute raw cashews for cashew butter. Discover proper ratios, preparation methods, and tips for successful substitution in any recipe.

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Quick Answer

Yes, you can substitute raw cashews for cashew butter by blending them into a paste. Use 1 cup raw cashews + 1-2 tbsp oil + 1/2 tsp salt for every 1 cup of cashew butter needed.

Best Substitutes

Raw Cashews (Blended)

1 cup cashew butter = 1 cup raw cashews + 1-2 tbsp oil + 1/2 tsp salt

Raw cashews blended into a smooth paste. The most authentic substitute for cashew butter with the same flavor profile.

Best for:

bakingsaucesdipsspreadswhen you want authentic flavorhomemade cashew butter

Soak cashews 2-4 hours for easier blending. Use a high-powered blender or food processor. Add oil gradually until desired consistency. Add salt for flavor.

Soaked Cashews (Blended)

1 cup cashew butter = 1 cup soaked cashews + 1-2 tbsp oil + 1/2 tsp salt

Cashews soaked in water then blended into a smooth paste. Easier to blend and creates creamier texture.

Best for:

saucesdipsspreadswhen you want creamy textureeasier blending

Soak cashews 2-4 hours in water, then drain and blend. Soaking makes them easier to blend and creates a creamier texture. Add oil and salt as needed.

Raw Almonds (Blended)

1 cup cashew butter = 1 cup raw almonds + 1-2 tbsp oil + 1/2 tsp salt

Raw almonds blended into a smooth paste. Similar texture to cashew butter with a slightly different flavor.

Best for:

bakingsaucesdipsspreadswhen you want similar texturealmond flavor

Almonds are harder than cashews, so they may take longer to blend. Use a high-powered blender. Add oil gradually until desired consistency.

Raw Peanuts (Blended)

1 cup cashew butter = 1 cup raw peanuts + 1-2 tbsp oil + 1/2 tsp salt

Raw peanuts blended into a smooth paste. Stronger flavor than cashew butter but similar texture.

Best for:

bakingsaucesdipsspreadswhen you want stronger flavorpeanut flavor

Peanuts have a stronger flavor than cashews. Use raw, unsalted peanuts. Blend until smooth, adding oil as needed for consistency.

Raw Sunflower Seeds (Blended)

1 cup cashew butter = 1 cup raw sunflower seeds + 1-2 tbsp oil + 1/2 tsp salt

Raw sunflower seeds blended into a smooth paste. Nut-free alternative with similar texture to cashew butter.

Best for:

bakingsaucesdipsspreadsallergiesnut-free option

Sunflower seeds are nut-free and work well for those with tree nut allergies. Use raw, unsalted seeds. Blend until smooth, adding oil as needed.

Cooking Tips

💡For best results, soak raw cashews 2-4 hours before blending to make them easier to process
💡Use a high-powered blender or food processor for smooth, creamy texture
💡Add oil gradually while blending until you reach the desired consistency
💡Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of homemade nut butters
💡Store homemade nut butters in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute raw cashews for cashew butter?

Yes, you can substitute raw cashews for cashew butter by blending them into a smooth paste. Use 1 cup raw cashews + 1-2 tbsp oil + 1/2 tsp salt for every 1 cup of cashew butter needed.

How do I make cashew butter from raw cashews?

Soak 1 cup raw cashews in water for 2-4 hours, then drain and blend with 1-2 tbsp oil and 1/2 tsp salt until smooth. Use a high-powered blender for best results.

Do I need to soak cashews before blending?

Soaking cashews 2-4 hours before blending makes them easier to process and creates a creamier texture. However, you can blend raw cashews directly if you have a powerful blender.

What oil should I use when making cashew butter?

Use a neutral oil like grapeseed, sunflower, or coconut oil. Add oil gradually while blending until you reach the desired consistency. The amount needed depends on the cashews and your blender.

Can I use other nuts to make nut butter?

Yes, you can use almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, or other nuts to make nut butter. The process is similar - blend with oil and salt until smooth. Different nuts will have different flavors and textures.

Summary

Learn if you can substitute raw cashews for cashew butter. Discover proper ratios, preparation methods, and tips for successful substitution in any recipe.