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Pistachio Butter

An assortment of jars filled with different nut butters, including pistachio butter, displayed on a marble surface.

Creamy, vibrant, and packed with flavor, pistachio butter is the nut spread you didn’t know you needed—until now. With its naturally green hue and rich, nutty flavor, this homemade version is a nutritious, eye-catching alternative to peanut or almond butter. It’s loaded with healthy fats, plant-based protein, and antioxidants, making it a perfect addition to breakfasts, snacks, and even savory dishes. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home with just a handful of ingredients and a food processor. Once you try it, you’ll want to slather it on everything!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups (250 g) raw, shelled green pistachios
1 teaspoon pistachio oil or other neutral oil (optional, for smoother texture)
Pinch of fine sea salt (optional, to taste)
12 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, or agave (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

Instructions

Toast the pistachios
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Spread the shelled pistachios in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast for 5–10 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Let cool slightly.

Transfer to a processor
Add the warm pistachios to a food processor or high-speed blender. Pulse until a coarse meal forms.

Blend until creamy
Continue processing for 5–10 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides. The mixture will go from powder to paste to a smooth, creamy butter. Be patient—this is where the magic happens.

Adjust consistency and flavor
For a creamier texture, add a teaspoon of oil. For sweetness, add your choice of sweetener. A pinch of salt can enhance the flavor, especially for savory uses. Blend again until fully incorporated.

Store and enjoy
Spoon into a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month, or freeze for longer. Stir before each use if natural separation occurs.

 

Notes

Nut-free option: Substitute pistachios with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
Crunchy version: Reserve ½ cup of pistachios. Blend the rest, then pulse in reserved nuts at the end.
Flavor boosters: Try adding cinnamon, vanilla, or melted dark chocolate for fun variations.
Equipment tip: A food processor works best. If using a blender, keep a tamper handy and take breaks to prevent overheating.
Freshness tip: Store extra pistachios in the freezer to prevent them from going rancid before your next batch.

Nutrition