Homemade Peanut Butter

Thanks to my new friend, “A”, I am now making my own peanut butter. I don’t know what took me so long to try this – it couldn’t be much easier! And “A” is right, kids love to eat it by the spoonful - right out of the blender.

First, I went to a health food store and bought “Butter Stock Gourmet Peanuts” out of a bin. The cost was $1.79/lb and I bought just over 1 pound. So (for about $2) I made fresh, additive- and preservative-free, organic peanut butter. Store-bought natural peanut butter costs a little more than two times that amount.

Second, get out a commercial blender or food processor. I used a Cuisinart food processor, but I could have used the blender attachment to my Bosch. If you use a regular blender, you might want to pulse and then give your motor a break. Alternatively, the health food store might have a blender right there next to the peanuts - mine did.

Add the peanuts and a pinch of salt (if desired) and start to pulse. Watch out! It’s loud at first as those peanuts spin at high speed. Be patient. The peanuts will eventually become creamy. Adding oil is not necessary if you wait patiently as they spin. Once the peanut butter has reached desired consistency, scrape it out into an air-tight container. Add chopped peanuts and stir if you would like chunky-style peanut butter. Though it is probably not necessary, I store my PB in the fridge.

I would love to hear your comments as you try making your own peanut butter. Let me know what type of peanuts you use, how much they cost, and how much you think your savings are. The taste is phenomenal and it is especially nice knowing there is no added salt, sugar or preservatives. Our favorite way to eat it? On homemade bread, of course! Enjoy!

And thanks "A" !
Thanks also to "L" for helping me acquire the nuts this time around!