What's the Best Substitute for Peanut Butter?
Whether you're out of Peanut Butter or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Creamy or crunchy spread made from ground peanuts, used in sandwiches, baking, and sauces In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for peanut butter are almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini depending on your dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Best Substitutes for Peanut Butter
Almond Butter
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sandwiches
- baking
- smoothies
- dips
- sauces
Description
Smooth spread made from ground almonds with similar texture and protein content
Slightly sweeter and more expensive than peanut butter. May need to stir before using.
Cashew Butter
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sauces
- dips
- baking
- smoothies
- spreading
Description
Creamy, mild-flavored nut butter with smooth texture
Milder flavor than peanut butter. Great for savory applications.
Sunflower Seed Butter
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sandwiches
- baking
- dips
- smoothies
- nut-free recipes
Description
Nut-free alternative made from sunflower seeds, safe for nut allergies
Best nut-free alternative. May have a slightly green tint due to sunflower seeds.
Tahini
Ratio
1 cup peanut butter = 3/4 cup tahini + 2 tbsp oil + 1/2 tsp salt
Best For
- sauces
- dips
- dressings
- hummus
- savory applications
Description
Sesame seed paste with rich, nutty flavor, common in Middle Eastern cuisine
More liquid than peanut butter. Add oil and salt to match consistency and flavor.
Soy Nut Butter
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sandwiches
- baking
- dips
- nut-free recipes
Description
Nut-free alternative made from roasted soybeans, safe for nut allergies
Good protein content. May have a slightly different flavor profile.
Coconut Butter
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- smoothies
- desserts
- tropical recipes
Description
Spread made from ground coconut meat, naturally sweet and creamy
Naturally sweet. May solidify at room temperature, warm slightly to soften.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Peanut Butter, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Choose your substitute based on dietary restrictions and flavor preferences
For nut allergies: use sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter
For baking: almond butter and cashew butter work best as 1:1 replacements
For savory dishes: tahini adds authentic Middle Eastern flavor
For smoothies: any nut butter works well, but cashew butter is especially creamy
For sauces: tahini or cashew butter create smooth, rich textures
For sandwiches: almond butter and sunflower seed butter spread easily
For dips: cashew butter and tahini work well with savory flavors
For desserts: coconut butter adds natural sweetness
Always stir nut butters before using as they may separate
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications
Frequently Asked Questions
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