Posted on : April 25th, 2025
Almonds are one of the most loved and versatile nuts in the world. You can eat them as a snack, grind them into almond butter, add them to salads, or use them in baking. They’re full of flavor, packed with nutrients, and easy to enjoy in lots of different ways.
At Maisie Jane’s, we’ve been growing high-quality almonds right here in California for generations. As a family-owned business, we care about where our food comes from and how it’s made. That’s why every almond we offer is grown with care, processed with purpose, and made to taste great—naturally.
From classic whole almonds to bold, flavored varieties, our products are thoughtfully made and shared with love.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about almonds—the different types, how they’re made, why they’re good for you, and how to enjoy them in your favorite meals and snacks.
From almond basics to recipes, gift ideas, and beyond—this guide covers it all:
Almonds have been around for a long time—thousands of years, in fact! They’re one of the oldest cultivated tree nuts in the world. Historians believe almonds were first grown in the Middle East and South Asia, where they were a prized food in ancient diets. Almonds were even found in King Tut’s tomb, showing how valued they were in early cultures.
Over time, almonds made their way to Europe and eventually to the United States. Spanish missionaries brought almond trees to California in the 1700s, but it wasn’t until the 1800s that California’s Central Valley became the perfect spot to grow almonds on a larger scale.
Today, California produces about 80% of the world’s almonds, and farms like Maisie Jane’s are proud to continue the tradition. We grow our almonds with care, using sustainable farming practices to protect the land while producing some of the best-tasting almonds around.
Not all almonds are created equal. In fact, there are many different types of almonds grown in California, and each one has its own unique shape, texture, and flavor. Some are better for snacking, while others are perfect for roasting, slicing, or turning into almond butter. Knowing the differences can help you choose the right variety of almond for the job.
Here are some of the most popular types of almonds:
Nonpareils are the most well-known and widely used almond variety. They have a smooth, thin shell and a flat, light-colored kernel. Their mild flavor and easy-to-chew texture make them perfect for eating straight out of the bag or using in baking and slicing.
Carmel almonds are a little darker in color and often have a slightly softer shell than Nonpareils. They have a richer flavor and are commonly used in roasting and processing. They’re also great for making almond butter because of their full-bodied taste.
Butte almonds are smaller and rounder, with a harder shell and a more robust, earthy flavor. They’re a popular choice for flavored almonds and are often used in cooking because they hold up well to heat and seasoning.
One of the newest varities, the Indenpendence almond —which not reliant on bees for pollination—has been created by nurseries and is being experimented with farmers, including Maisie Jane’s farm. This variety has similar taste qualities of the Nonpareil with extra sweetness and are large in size.
While Nonpareil, Carmel, and Butte are among the most common, California actually grows over 30 almond varieties! Some are bred for specific uses like blanching or oil production, while others are chosen for their size, crunch, or color.
At Maisie Jane’s, we carefully select the almond varieties that best match the flavor, texture, and quality we want to offer in every product. Whether you’re looking for whole almonds to snack on or the perfect base for almond butter or trail mix, knowing your almond types can help you get the best experience from every bite.
Almonds aren’t just tasty—they’re also incredibly healthy snacks. Packed with powerful nutrients that support your body from head to toe. For thousands of years, people around the world have enjoyed almonds not just for their flavor, but for their natural health benefits. Today, they’re a favorite among doctors, nutritionists, and anyone looking to make smarter food choices.
These small but mighty nuts are rich in healthy fats, plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. And the best part? They’re easy to add to your everyday routine—whether you snack on them by the handful or toss them into a salad or smoothie.
Here are some of the biggest benefits of eating almonds:
Almonds are full of healthy fats, especially monounsaturated fats, which are the same kind found in olive oil. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol and support a healthy heart. They also contain magnesium, which helps keep your blood pressure in check.
Learn more about how almonds support heart health »
Almonds are one of the best natural sources of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect your skin from damage. Eating almonds regularly can help your skin stay soft, smooth, and protected from the inside out.
Read how almonds are great for your skin »
With a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, almonds help keep your energy levels steady. They’re a great snack between meals because they help you feel full longer without the crash you might get from sugary snacks.
Even though almonds are high in calories, they can still help with weight management. That’s because their healthy fats and fiber keep you satisfied, so you’re less likely to overeat.
Almonds are low in carbs but high in healthy fat, protein, and fiber—all of which help keep your blood sugar stable. They make a smart snack for people watching their sugar levels.
Adding almonds to your diet is an easy way to support your health—plus, they taste great!
Ready to enjoy the benefits? Shop now »
Every almond goes on a journey before it reaches your snack bowl or kitchen counter—and how it’s processed matters. At Maisie Jane’s, we believe in keeping that journey as natural as possible. That means our almond pasteurization process is gentle, using careful methods that protect both the flavor and the nutrients of the almonds.
In the U.S., all California-grown almonds are required to be pasteurized. This step is important because it helps reduce the risk of harmful bacteria like salmonella. But while pasteurization is a legal requirement, not all methods are created equal.
At Maisie Jane’s, we use steam pasteurization, which relies on natural water vapor—not chemicals—to get the job done. The almonds are briefly exposed to steam at a high temperature, which kills bacteria while preserving the almond’s taste, texture, and nutrient content.
Other companies may use chemical treatments like propylene oxide (PPO) to pasteurize almonds, but we choose a cleaner method that aligns with our values. It’s part of our promise to offer real food, thoughtfully made—and it helps ensure every almond you eat is both safe and naturally delicious.
If you’ve ever tasted a Maisie Jane’s roasted almond, you’ve probably noticed the rich, nutty flavor and perfect crunch. That’s thanks to our dry roasting process. Unlike oil-roasted nuts, which are cooked in added fats, dry-roasted almonds are roasted using nothing but heat.
Why do we dry roast? Because it brings out the almond’s natural flavor without covering it up. There’s no need for extra oils, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. The result is a clean, crunchy almond that’s full of flavor—and better for you, too.
This method also makes our almonds more versatile. Dry-roasted almonds work beautifully in salads, snack mixes, trail blends, and even baking—without adding extra grease or weight.
Every step in our process—from the moment the almond is harvested to the moment it’s sealed in a package—is guided by our core values: transparency, sustainability, and quality.
When you choose Maisie Jane’s, you’re not just choosing better almonds—you’re choosing a better way to enjoy food.
Want to learn more? Here’s a closer look at 4 Ways to Process Almonds »
For many families, classrooms, and workplaces, peanut allergies are a serious concern. That’s why finding safe, peanut-free snack options is so important. At Maisie Jane’s, we take food safety seriously—and that includes offering peace of mind to anyone managing a peanut allergy.
Our facility is 100% peanut-free. That means peanuts are never processed, stored, or used in any of our equipment or production areas. This extra level of care helps prevent cross-contamination and ensures that our almond products are safe for people with peanut sensitivities or allergies.
We know that parents, teachers, and caregivers are always reading labels and double-checking ingredients. We want to make that job easier. When you choose Maisie Jane’s, you can trust that our almond snacks, nut butters, and gift boxes are made with your safety in mind.
Whether you’re shopping for a school lunchbox, a care package, or just a snack to keep on hand at work, our peanut-free almond snacks deliver the flavor you love with the safety you need.
Learn more about why a peanut-free facility matters »
If you’ve ever wondered whether raw or roasted almonds are better, the answer is—it depends on what you’re looking for! Both types are nutritious and delicious, but they each offer a slightly different experience when it comes to taste, texture, and how you use them.
Raw almonds are just what they sound like—almonds that haven’t been roasted or seasoned. They’re slightly softer than roasted almonds and have a mild, natural flavor. Many people enjoy raw almonds for their clean, simple taste and smooth texture.
Raw almonds are a great choice if:
They’re also packed with nutrients like vitamin E, fiber, and healthy fats—making them a smart snack any time of day.
Roasted almonds are almonds that have been cooked with heat to bring out a deeper, nuttier flavor. At Maisie Jane’s, we use a dry roasting method, which means we don’t use oil—just heat—to achieve that perfect golden crunch.
Dry roasted almonds are a great choice if:
Roasted almonds are especially popular in snack mixes, salads, and on-the-go snacks. They’re flavorful, filling, and full of that signature crunch.
You can’t go wrong either way—raw and roasted almonds are both healthy, tasty, and full of natural goodness. The best choice comes down to your personal taste and how you plan to use them.
Shop Maisie Jane’s Natural Nut Selection »
Almonds are a pantry favorite—but like any natural food, they stay freshest when stored properly. If you want your almonds to taste just as good weeks (or even months) after you buy them, a little storage know-how goes a long way.
Here’s what you need to know about how to store almonds the right way:
If you plan to enjoy your almonds within a few weeks, keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place—like a pantry or cupboard away from heat and sunlight. This helps protect their natural oils from going rancid and keeps them crisp.
Instead of leaving almonds in their original opened packaging, transfer them to:
If you are keeping them in the original packaging, keep in mind:
Want to stock up? No problem. All types of almonds store really well in the fridge or freezer.
This works for raw almonds, roasted almonds, almond flour, and even almond butter—just make sure to avoid storing them near strong-smelling foods, as almonds can absorb odors.
At Maisie Jane’s, we seal every package with care to keep our almonds fresh until you’re ready to open them. Whether you’re snacking today or saving for later, proper storage helps you get the most out of every bite.
Whether you’re at your desk, on a hike, or packing lunch for the kids, almonds make the perfect grab-and-go snack. Naturally satisfying and nutrient-dense, they deliver the crunch you crave with none of the guilt. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, meaning there’s an almond snack out there for just about everyone.
For starters, they’re packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which means they help keep you fuller, longer. That’s especially helpful for avoiding those midday crashes or mindless munching between meals. A small handful (about 23 almonds) provides a perfect snack-sized portion that supports energy, brain power, and heart health.
The beauty of almond snacking lies in variety. Some like them raw and simple. Others love the rich, toasty flavor of dry-roasted almonds. Toss almonds into your favorite trail mix. Pair them with dried fruit and dark chocolate chips for a midday pick-me-up. Keep a jar at your desk or in your car for easy access. Or try spreading almond butter on apple slices for a protein-rich snack both kids and adults will love.
For those with a sweet tooth, cinnamon or honey-glazed almonds offer just the right touch of natural sweetness. And for savory snackers? Try herb and garlic or tamari-roasted varieties for a burst of bold flavor. And don’t even get us started on chocolate covered almonds. Yum!
At Maisie Jane’s, we believe that snacks should be both nourishing and delicious. That’s why our almonds are always made with clean, simple goodness—no artificial flavors, no unnecessary additives, just thoughtfully crafted snacks made in a peanut-free facility. Each batch is roasted in small batches right here in Northern California, so you can taste the freshness in every bite.
Try Maisie Jane’s convenient organic nuts snack packs – resealable pouches filled with flavored almonds and other nutty favorites. Perfect for lunchboxes, glove compartments, or stashing in your tote.
Whether sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, almonds make everyday snacking a little more satisfying—and a whole lot more delicious.
If you love almonds, take your almond snacking further with almond butter. Creamy, rich, and full of natural flavor, almond butter has become a go-to favorite for people looking for a healthy and tasty alternative to peanut butter.
Almond butter is made by grinding whole almonds into a smooth, spreadable paste. At Maisie Jane’s, we keep it simple—our almond butter is made with just one ingredient: almonds. That means no added oils, no extra sugar, and no unnecessary stuff. Just the pure, nutty flavor you love.
Everyone has their almond butter preference, and we’ve got a style for every spreader:
No matter your pick, every jar is made with care and real ingredients you can feel good about.
Almond butter is incredibly easy to use—and once you start, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. If you’re searching for almond butter recipes to experiment with or trying to determine the best nut butter for your needs, we offer some useful resources to help you get started in our Nut Butter Guide.
From breakfast to dessert, almond butter is one of the most delicious ways to enjoy the benefits of almonds.
Almonds aren’t just great for snacking—they’re one of the most versatile ingredients you can keep in your kitchen. From salads and sauces to main dishes and desserts, almonds add just the right touch of flavor, crunch, and nutrition to any meal.
At Maisie Jane’s, we love showing off just how creative you can get with almond-based ingredients like sliced almonds, almond butter, and seasoned roasted nuts. Whether you’re looking for a fresh lunch idea, a healthy dinner upgrade, or something fun to meal prep for the week, almonds can help take your cooking to the next level.
Below are a few of our favorite sweet and savory recipes using real ingredients and packed with almond goodness. Try one—or try them all—and see how easy it is to turn everyday meals into something memorable.
These recipes are just a taste of what you can do with almonds in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, you’ll find plenty of ideas on our blog to keep meals fresh, flavorful, and full of natural goodness.
Looking for a gift that’s thoughtful, unique, and always appreciated? Almonds check all the boxes. Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, thank-you, or “just because,” almond gift baskets are a delicious way to show someone you care.
At Maisie Jane’s, we make gifting easy with a full selection of nut-filled gift boxes and gift baskets, packed with our most popular almond snacks, nut butters, and locally made gourmet food and treats. Each one is carefully curated to delight the recipient and beautifully packaged for a ready-to-give experience.
Not sure where to start? With so many delicious options, it can be hard to choose the perfect gift. Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned snacker or someone new to the world of almonds, our Maisie Janes gifts with almond products are a great place to begin.
Whether you’re shopping early or need something last-minute, our gifts are packed with care and made to share. Choose from our wide selection of almond products, specialty snacks, and Northern California favorites.
Explore Maisie Jane’s Almond Gift Baskets & Boxes »
From their rich history to their impressive health benefits, almonds are more than just a snack—they’re a powerhouse ingredient that fits into every part of your day. Whether you’re spreading almond butter on toast, sprinkling sliced almonds over a salad, or giving the gift of a beautifully curated almond basket, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this incredible nut.
At Maisie Jane’s, we’re more than just almond growers—we’re stewards of a tradition that values real food, sustainable farming, and simple, natural goodness. From our family farm in California’s almond heartland, we craft products that honor the land, the crop, and the people who enjoy them.
Now that you’ve explored the many ways almonds can nourish your health, inspire your recipes, and even brighten someone’s day as a gift, it’s time to experience the difference for yourself.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect snack, a thoughtful gift, or a kitchen staple, you’ll find it here—crafted with care, just for you.
From their rich history to their impressive health benefits, almonds are more than just a snack—they’re a powerhouse ingredient that fits into every part of your day. Whether you’re spreading almond butter on toast, sprinkling sliced almonds over a salad, or giving the gift of a beautifully curated almond basket, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this incredible nut.
© 2015-2025 Maisie Jane's
WEBSITE DESIGN BY: HALF A BUBBLE OUT | ADVERTISING & MARKETING
