Nut Butter 101: All About Almond & Cashew Butters

Posted on : March 10th, 2025

Nut butter has taken the health food world by storm, becoming a staple in many households. Almond and cashew butters were once just alternatives to peanut butter. Now, they are popular for their great flavors, health benefits, and many other uses.

You can drizzle them over oatmeal, blend them into smoothies, or spread them on toast. These creamy treats are both tasty and useful.

At Maisie Jane’s, we take pride in crafting high-quality almond butter and other peanut-free nut butters using sustainable farming practices, dry roasting techniques, and pure, single-ingredient recipes. This guide will help you learn about almond butter benefits and cashew butter nutrition. It will also show you how to choose the best one for you.

What Is Nut Butter?

Despite the name, nut butter does not actually contain butter. They are creamy spreads made by grinding nuts into a smooth or chunky consistency.

The process usually starts with dry roasting the nuts. This helps to bring out their natural flavor. After that, the nuts are ground into a rich, spreadable paste.

Maisie Jane’s classic and organic nut butters are different from many store-bought options. They do not contain added oils, sugars, or preservatives. They are made with a focus on purity and quality, using only the nuts themselves.

Almond butter and cashew butter are very popular. However, many people also enjoy other types of nut butters.

• Peanut Butter – One of the most widely consumed nut butters, made from roasted peanuts and known for its creamy, slightly sweet flavor.
• Almond Butter– Naturally earthy with a slightly roasted flavor and a thicker consistency.
• Cashew Butter– Smooth, buttery, and slightly sweeter, making it a versatile option for both sweet and savory dishes.
• Hazelnut Butter – Often paired with chocolate, hazelnut butter has a naturally rich, sweet taste.
• Pistachio Butter – A vibrant green spread with a delicate, slightly sweet flavor.
• Macadamia Nut Butter – Luxuriously creamy and rich, macadamia nut butter is packed with healthy fats.
• Walnut Butter – Slightly earthy and robust in flavor, walnut butter is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Each nut butter has its own taste and nutrition. This makes them great options for different diets and flavor likes. Whether used as a spread, mixed into smoothies, or added into baked goods, nut butters provide a delicious and nutrient-dense alternative to traditional spreads.

Almond butter and cashew butter are among the most popular choices, each offering unique textures and flavors.

If you are curious about cashew butter vs almond butter, here are the differences. Almond butter has a stronger roasted flavor and more protein. In contrast, cashew butter is milder and creamier. It also has a naturally sweeter taste.

 

Health Benefits of Almond and Cashew Butters

Almond Butter: A Nutrient Powerhouse

Almond butter is packed with essential nutrients that make it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. Here are some of the key almond butter benefits:

• High in Protein – Supports muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Vitamin E – Acts as a powerful antioxidant to protect cells from damage.
• Monounsaturated Fats – Promote heart health and help manage cholesterol levels.
• Fiber-Rich – Supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Calcium and Magnesium – Essential for bone health and muscle function.
• Supports Brain Function – Contains riboflavin and L-carnitine, which have been linked to cognitive health.

Maisie Jane’s almond butter collection has many flavors. You can choose from Classic Smooth or Crunchy Almond Butters. There are also Smooth or Crunchy Organic Almond Butters. Plus, try the Italian Dark Chocolate Almond Butter.

Each crafted with premium dry roasted almonds for a naturally rich taste.

Cashew Butter: Creamy and Nutrient-Dense

Cashew butter offers a different set of health benefits:

• Good Source of Healthy Fats – Supports brain function and heart health.
• Rich in Magnesium – Helps regulate blood pressure and support muscle function.
• Copper and Zinc – Essential minerals for a strong immune system and healthy skin.
• Easily Digestible – A great option for those with sensitive stomachs.
• Lower in Carbohydrates – A great option for those following a lower-carb diet.
• Promotes Healthy Skin – High in antioxidants and essential fatty acids that support a glowing complexion.

Maisie Jane’s cashew butter lineup includes Classic Creamy Cashew Butter, Organic Cashew Butter, and Cowboy Caramel Cashew Butter. All are made with high-quality cashews from ethical and sustainable farms.

 

Almond butter and cashew butter are both good sources of plant-based protein. They are perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone wanting to add more whole foods to their diet.

Alternatives to Peanut Butter

If you have a peanut allergy, almond and cashew butter are great options. They are creamy and versatile, with no allergy risk. Almond butter is rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy monounsaturated fats, supporting heart health and overall wellness.

Cashew butter has a sweet, buttery taste. It also provides important minerals like iron and zinc. Both options are great for spreading on toast, blending into smoothies, or using as a dip, making it easy to enjoy the benefits of nut butter without peanuts.

At Maisie Jane’s, we make our products in peanut-free facilities. This makes them a safe choice for people with severe allergies. They are also tasty!

How to Choose Quality Nut Butters

When choosing a nut butter, look for signs of quality. This helps you get a healthy and ethically sourced product.

What to Look for on Labels

• No Added Sugars or Oils – A good nut butter should have only nuts. It should not have extra ingredients like palm oil, hydrogenated oils, or refined sugars. Added oils can alter the natural flavor and texture, while excess sugar reduces nutritional value.
• Minimal Ingredients – The best nut butters often have one or two ingredients: nuts and maybe a pinch of salt. Avoid artificial flavors, preservatives, or emulsifiers.
• Organic & Non-GMO Certifications – These labels indicate that the product is free from harmful pesticides and genetic modifications, ensuring cleaner ingredients and a more natural product.
• Peanut-Free Facilities – If you have a peanut allergy or want to avoid cross-contamination, look for brands that process their nut butters in peanut-free facilities.
• Freshness & Natural Texture – Natural nut butters tend to separate, with oil rising to the top. This is a good sign! It means there are no stabilizers or artificial thickening agents. A quick stir will bring back the creamy consistency.

Why Ingredients Matter

The ingredients in nut butter directly affect nutrition, taste, and overall health benefits. Here’s why:

• Nuts in their purest form provide essential healthy fats, protein, fiber, and vitamins without unnecessary fillers.
• Added oils, like palm oil or canola oil, can increase saturated fat content and reduce the natural nutritional benefits of the nuts.
• Excess sugar turns a healthy snack into something more like a dessert, spiking blood sugar levels.
• Preservatives & artificial flavors aren’t needed if the nut butter is fresh and high-quality.

At Maisie Jane’s there is only one ingredient in our Classic and Organic Almond and Cashew Butters, nothing else. We hand-select our almonds from the best California varieties, fire roast, and blend them smooth and delicious. Pure goodness straight from nature!

Why Some Brands Use Palm Oil—And Why We Don’t

Palm oil is commonly found in many commercial nut butters for two main reasons:

1. It’s an inexpensive ingredient filler. Some brands use palm oil to cut costs and lower the retail price of their products. However, at Maisie Jane’s, we choose NOT to include palm oil because it goes against our mission.We are dedicated to providing nut products from farm to table. Our ingredients are pure and simple, and we prioritize our customers’ health. Adding unnecessary and unhealthy ingredients just to reduce costs is not something we believe in.
2. It acts as an emulsifier. Palm oil is used to bind ingredients, preventing natural oil separation and making nut butters more convenient for consumers. However, storing your nut butter at a consistent temperature, particularly in the refrigerator, can significantly slow this process. at Maisie Jane’s, we embrace natural processes. Oil separation is completely normal and can be easily remedied by stirring with a spoon or butter knife.

At Maisie Jane’s, we embrace natural processes. Oil separation is completely normal and can be easily remedied by stirring with a spoon or butter knife. We make smaller batches more often. This keeps our products fresh. Oil separation is rarely a problem if the food chain manages roasted inventory well.

Importance of Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing

• Choosing nut butters made from responsibly grown almonds and cashews supports farmers who prioritize environmental conservation and fair labor practices.
• Sustainable farming practices help protect soil health, reduce water waste, and minimize the carbon footprint of nut production.
• At Maisie Jane’s, we are committed to sourcing high-quality nuts through sustainable farming and ethical partnerships, ensuring every jar meets our high standards-so you can enjoy nut butter that’s both delicious and responsibly made.

How to Store Nut Butter to Keep it Fresh

Proper storage techniques help maintain the freshness and flavor of nut butters. Here’s how to keep them at their best:

Proper Storage Techniques

• Keep in a Cool, Dry Place – Store in a pantry away from direct sunlight to maintain texture and flavor.
• Refrigeration (Optional) – Helps extend shelf life, though it may result in a firmer consistency. Let refrigerated nut butter sit at room temperature for a few minutes before use.

Understanding Natural Oil Separation

• It’s normal for natural nut butters to separate over time. Simply stir well before each use to recombine the oils and solids.
• Avoid storing nut butter upside down, as this can make stirring easier when you’re ready to use it.

Typical Shelf Life

• Unopened Jars – Typically last 6-12 months when stored properly.
• Opened Jars – Best consumed within 3-6 months for optimal freshness and taste.

If you notice a rancid smell or a sour taste, it’s time to replace your jar.

Why Choose Maisie Jane’s Nut Butters?

Maisie Jane’s nut butters stand out because of our commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical sourcing.

• Peanut-Free Facility – Ensuring safety for those with peanut allergies.
• Sustainable Farming Practices – We use local bees for pollination, plant bee-friendly habitats, and avoid synthetic fertilizers.
• Dry Roasting Process – No added oils, just pure, naturally enhanced flavor.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging – We use glass jars instead of plastic for a more sustainable choice.
• Ethically Sourced Cashews – Sourced from Vietnam with fair wages and sustainable agricultural training.
• Kosher, Keto-Friendly, and Gluten-Free – Our nut butters fit a variety of dietary needs.

Maisie Jane’s nut butters stand out for their commitment to natural ingredients, sustainability, and small-batch craftsmanship. Each jar is made with care. It uses dry-roasted nuts with no added oils or preservatives. This ensures a pure and rich taste in every spoonful.

Their commitment to bee-friendly and eco-friendly farming helps you nourish your body and support a healthier planet.

What Are The Best Ways To Use Nut Butter In Recipes?

Nut butters aren’t just for spreading on toast – although it will always be a classic go-to snack! Nut butters are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of recipes. They add a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to both sweet and savory dishes.

Some great ways to use nut butter in recipes are stirring it into oatmeal for extra protein. You can also blend it into smoothies for a thicker, healthy drink. Another option is to use it as a base for homemade salad dressings and sauces. Nut butter can also be spread over toast with chia seeds and honey, drizzled over yogurt bowls, or incorporated into energy bites and baked goods for a natural boost of flavor and nutrition.

Here are some creative ways to enjoy almond and cashew butter:

• Smoothies: Add a spoonful to your favorite smoothie for a protein boost.
• Baking: Use as an ingredient in muffins, cookies, and energy bites.
• Cooking: Stir into sauces, dressings, and curries for a creamy texture.
• Desserts: Drizzle over ice cream, yogurt bowls, or mix into homemade granola.

Try These Easy Recipes For A Simple Way To Incorporate Nut Butter:

Healthy Nut Butter Recipes: Almond Butter Energy Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• ½ cup Maisie Jane’s Classic Smooth Almond Butter
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until well combined.
2. Roll into small bite-sized balls.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Keto-Friendly Nut Butter Recipe: Cashew Butter Banana Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 banana
• 1 tbsp Maisie Jane’s Classic Creamy Cashew Butter
• 1 cup almond milk
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Make the Switch to Better Nut Butters

Nut butters are more than just delicious spreads—they’re nutrient-dense, versatile, and a great addition to a healthy lifestyle. Nut butters are great for smoothies, baking, or just eating straight from the jar. They are tasty and packed with nutrients, making them a good choice for a healthy lifestyle.

With their versatility, Maisie Jane’s classic and organic almond and cashew butters are perfect for adding depth and nutrition to your favorite meals. However you enjoy them, you can feel good knowing you’re choosing a high-quality, ethically produced nut butter that delivers both incredible flavor and benefits for your health.