The Nutritious Benefits of Almond Maple Butter
Almond maple butter has been growing in popularity as a delicious and nutritious alternative to classic peanut butter. With a creamy, rich texture and sweet maple flavor, almond maple butter makes a great addition to smoothies, oatmeal, sandwiches, and more. And with lots of healthy fats, protein, vitamins and minerals, there are plenty of reasons why almond maple butter deserves a spot in your pantry.
Almond Maple Butter Nutrition
What really sets almond maple butter apart is its stellar nutrition profile. Almonds are packed with vitamin E, magnesium, fiber and monounsaturated fatty acids. Meanwhile, pure maple syrup provides beneficial antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese.
Together, they make an incredibly nutritious combination. Just one serving of almond maple butter contains:
- 7 grams protein
- 15 grams healthy fats
- 4 grams fiber
- 20% DV vitamin E
- 18% DV manganese
- 12% DV magnesium
This impressive nutrient content gives almond maple butter significant health benefits. The healthy fats help reduce cholesterol and inflammation while the fiber keeps blood sugar stable. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds also promote heart health and manage diabetes.
Benefits Over Peanut Butter
Peanut butter may be a staple pantry ingredient for many, but almond maple butter has some distinct advantages over the popular spread.
Firstly, almond maple butter is safe for people with peanut allergies. Peanuts are one of the most common food allergen but almonds rarely cause issues.
Additionally, it has a better fatty acid profile. While peanut butter contains lots of inflammatory omega-6s, the fats in almonds are primarily monounsaturated. This makes almond maple butter more effective at lowering cholesterol.
Almond maple butter also contains more vitamin E, magnesium, manganese and antioxidants. These nutrients reduce oxidative damage, regulate blood sugar and support brain and heart health.
How to Make Almond Maple Butter
You can easily make almond maple butter right at home with just two ingredients - raw almonds and pure maple syrup.
Start by adding 2 cups raw almonds to a high powered blender or food processor. Process on high for 5-7 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. You want the nuts to completely break down into butter.
Next, slowly stream in 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 cup pure maple syrup through the opening in the blender lid while blending. Keep blending for another minute or two until thoroughly combined.
Transfer the almond maple butter to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
How to Use Almond Maple Butter
Almond maple butter is delicious and super versatile. Try using it in these recipes:
- As a spread on toast, waffles, pancakes or muffins
- Swirled into yogurt or oatmeal
- Added to smoothies
- As the base of salad dressings and marinades
- In baked goods like cookies, granola bars and banana bread
- Added to chia pudding or overnight oats
You can also simply enjoy it by the spoonful or dip apple slices into it for a healthy snack.
Where to Buy Almond Maple Butter
Look for almond maple butter at your local health food store or grocery store, often in the peanut butter aisle. Some popular brands to try are:
- MaraNatha
- Artisana
- Justin's
- Nutiva
Online stores like Thrive Market and Amazon also carry a wide selection.
You can expect to pay around $12-15 for a 16oz jar of almond maple butter. Keep in mind that prices are often a bit lower if you choose to make your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about almond maple butter:
Is almond maple butter healthy?
Yes! Almond maple butter is packed with protein, fiber, essential vitamins and minerals as well as heart-healthy fats. The combination of almonds and maple syrup makes this spread very nutritious and health promoting.
Is almond maple butter gluten free?
Pure almond maple butter without any added ingredients is naturally gluten free. Just be sure to check the label if buying from the store and avoid any versions with added wheat.
Does almond maple butter go bad?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, almond maple butter will stay fresh for up to 1 month. After opening, you can also freeze excess butter for up to 12 months.
Is almond butter healthier than peanut butter?
Almond butter has more vitamin E, magnesium and antioxidants compared to peanut butter. It also contains more heart healthy fats. So for most goals, almond butter tends to be the healthiest choice.
Can you substitute almond butter for peanut butter?
In most recipes you can directly replace peanut butter with almond butter. Just keep in mind that almond butter has a slightly drier, grainier texture so the final results may differ slightly.
FAQs
Is almond maple butter Keto friendly?
Yes, almond maple butter can fit into a Keto diet. Since is it low carb and high in fats, it works well for Ketogenic diets as long as you account for the carbohydrates in the maple syrup.
What's the difference between almond butter and almond maple butter?
Almond butter contains just one ingredient - almonds. Almond maple butter takes almond butter and mixes it with maple syrup for added sweetness and flavor. The maple syrup also enhances the smooth, creamy texture.
Can you make almond maple butter without a food processor?
It's challenging but possible. You'll need to very finely chop the almonds before mixing vigorously with maple syrup for 5-10 minutes. Be prepared for a workout and your arms may get tired!
Is there sugar in almond maple butter?
There is naturally occurring sugar from the maple syrup. But unlike flavored nut butters with processed sugar or high fructose corn syrup, the sugar in maple syrup comes along with beneficial antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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