I simply LOVE almond butter. As a non meat-eater, it curbs my protein cravings and delivers instant satisfaction and deliciousness. It’s a healthy alternative to peanut butter, and just as tasty. This miracle food is loaded with vitamin E, omega-3’s, calcium, and B vitamins, and is a powerful antioxidant that nourishes your skin, nervous system, muscles, bones, and heart. It is also full of fiber and protein, making it perfect for snacking. Similar to avocado (have you seen my amazing Avocado and Spinach Dip?) almonds are one of the best healthy fats to add to your diet. 

In January, I want on a three-week Clean Program cleanse, and I literally fell in love with almond butter. What is so amazing is that it is so versatile. You can pair it with apple slices, add a scoop to your smoothie for added creaminess and nutty flavor, spread it on celery and even bake with it! Like coconut, my other favorite super food ingredient, the possibilities are endless.

Since my obsession with almond butter has increased, I have made an active effort to make my own almond butter from scratch. Not only is it more cost effective, it is pretty easy and super satisfying. I spoke with Lauren Unger of Hint of Greens (you should all be pretty familiar with her by now), and she gave me the easiest recipe for a DIY Almond Butter as well as three super easy and delicious ways to enjoy this incredibly healthy treat.

Ingredients:

3 cups raw almonds (make sure to buy organic, as this ensures that no chemicals were used in the pasteurization process)

Pinch of salt (optional)

Food processor

Directions:

Place the almonds in the bowl of a food processor fitted with an “S” blade. Secure the lid and process the almonds for 20-30 minutes. Periodically pause to scrape down the sides as needed and continue to process. You will know almond butter is ready when the oils have released and the resulting butter is very smooth and creamy.

Make sure to be patient, this process takes longer than you would expect. Once finished, transfer the almond butter to a sealed glass jar (I like to use a mason jar), and store in the fridge.

*** If you don’t have a food processor, don’t worry – use a blender or Vitamix like I do:

Ingredients:

1 cup raw almonds

Pinch of salt (optional)

Vitamix or high-speed blender

Directions:

Place the almonds in a Vitamix or high-speed blender. Secure the lid and process the almonds for 15-20 minutes. Periodically pause to scrape down the sides as needed and continue to process. You will know almond butter is ready when the oils have released and the resulting butter is very smooth and creamy. When it’s ready, store in the fridge. I like to store mine in a simple mason jar.

*Optional: For added benefits soak the almonds overnight in water and dehydrate in the oven on a low setting before you make the almond butter.

4 ways to enjoy almond butter and totally impress your friends:

– Spread the almond butter on some toast (raw or vegan) and add a drizzle of honey, some Moon Juice Beauty Dust and even some edible flowers for a delicious breakfast treat.

– Spread it on celery and top with goji berries for a grown up version of ants on a log.

– Top a bowl of sliced apples with almond butter and cinnamon for a post-workout protein fix. The cinnamon is sure to keep the metabolism fired up. You can also sprinkle a bit of The Beauty Chef’s Glow Powder for a really dose of beauty.

– Add a scoop to your morning smoothie.