When it comes to nut butters, peanut butter is a classic favorite that never goes out of style. But did you know that it’s also incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of recipes? From sweet treats like cookies and smoothies to savory dishes like stir-fries and energy balls, peanut butter is the perfect ingredient to add some creamy richness and nutty flavor to your meals.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious healthy peanut butter recipes that are perfect for anyone looking to add some variety to their diet. From classic combinations like peanut butter and banana to more unexpected pairings like peanut butter and sweet potato, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of peanut butter and offer a range of options to suit every taste and dietary need.
Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a creamy and nutritious smoothie bowl that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: sliced banana, granola, shredded coconut, or honey
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, peanut butter, Greek yogurt, and almond milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add a pinch of salt and blend again to combine.
4. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
5. Top with your desired toppings (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes blending time
Healthy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies are a healthier twist on classic peanut butter treats, made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and natural peanut butter. Perfect for a sweet snack or as a treat to pack in lunchboxes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, honey, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter and Chia Seed Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are a perfect combination of creamy peanut butter, nutrient-rich chia seeds, and sweet dates. They’re easy to make, packed with fiber and protein, and provide a natural energy boost to keep you going throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, chopped
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the oats and chia seeds to the peanut butter mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Fold in the chopped dates.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 6-8 energy balls.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Protein-Packed Peanut Butter Yogurt Parfait
A delicious and nutritious treat that combines creamy yogurt, nutty peanut butter, and crunchy granola for a protein-packed snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Spoon the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with granola, mixed berries, and a sprinkle of protein powder.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Peanut Butter and Berry Stuffed French Toast
Peanut Butter and Berry Stuffed French Toast Recipe
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. While the French toast is cooking, spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter on each slice.
6. Once cooked, place a spoonful of mixed berries on top of the peanut butter.
7. Fold the French toast in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for an additional minute to warm the berries through.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Avocado Mousse Recipe
Summary: This creamy and rich mousse combines the flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and avocado, perfect for a guilt-free dessert or snack. With only 5 ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and requires no cooking time!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the peanut butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Yield: Serves 6-8
Note: You can adjust the amount of peanut butter and cocoa powder to your taste preferences.
Peanut Butter and Flaxseed Granola Bars
These chewy granola bars combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the nutty flavor of flaxseed, making for a satisfying snack that’s packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, and flaxseed.
3. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, honey, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Peanut Butter Hummus with Veggies
A creamy and nutritious twist on traditional hummus, this recipe combines the richness of peanut butter with the wholesomeness of vegetables. Perfect as a snack or dip for your favorite dippers!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3-4 cups mixed veggies (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– Optional: paprika or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, peanut butter, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.
4. Arrange the mixed veggies on top of the hummus.
5. Garnish with paprika or chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Peanut Butter and Coconut Quinoa Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the tropical flavor of coconut, all wrapped up in a nutritious quinoa package. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the quinoa, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the shredded coconut and salt.
3. Gradually add the rolled oats to form a dough-like consistency.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). You should end up with around 12-15 bites.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These bites are no-bake.
Spicy Peanut Butter Tofu Stir-Fry
This Spicy Peanut Butter Tofu Stir-Fry is a flavorful and spicy twist on the classic stir-fry, featuring crispy tofu, crunchy vegetables, and a rich peanut butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for stir-frying
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the vegetables in the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return the tofu cubes to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter and Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Start your day with a deliciously sweet and satisfying breakfast that combines the flavors of peanut butter, apple, and cinnamon. This overnight oats recipe is perfect for a quick and easy morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 apple, diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– Optional: chopped nuts or seeds for topping
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the diced apple on top of the oat mixture.
3. Refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
4. In the morning, give the oats a stir and add any desired toppings (such as chopped nuts or seeds).
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Let it sit overnight and enjoy in the morning.
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of peanut butter, all wrapped up in a gluten-free package. Perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Peanut Butter and Dark Chocolate Protein Bites
Peanut Butter and Dark Chocolate Protein Bites Recipe
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of peanut butter with the decadence of dark chocolate, making them a perfect snack for fitness enthusiasts and chocolate lovers alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Add the oats, protein powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until melted.
5. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
6. Place the coated bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Yield: Approximately 12-15 protein bites
Healthy Peanut Butter and Sweet Potato Soup
A creamy and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of peanut butter, making it a nutritious and delicious meal option. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for added sweetness)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, peanut butter, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let it cool and blend in a blender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Seed Energy Bars
These no-bake energy bars are a perfect blend of creamy peanut butter, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and wholesome oats. A delicious and healthy snack to fuel your active lifestyle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add pumpkin seeds to the peanut butter mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the oat mixture to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
5. If using chocolate chips, fold them into the dough.
6. Press the dough into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
8. Cut into bars and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Peanut Butter and Spinach Green Smoothie
This creamy and nutritious smoothie combines the richness of peanut butter with the health benefits of spinach, making it a perfect way to start your day or refuel after a workout.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen spinach
– 2 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend on high speed until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in just 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Peanut Butter and Spinach Green Smoothie!
Peanut Butter and Almond Flour Pancakes
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that’s free from grains! These peanut butter and almond flour pancakes are a game-changer for those looking for a gluten-free and paleo-friendly option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Butter or coconut oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, peanut butter, eggs, salt, and baking soda until smooth.
2. Add honey or maple syrup if desired, then mix well.
3. Grease a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop the batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious peanut butter and almond flour pancakes!
Low-Sugar Peanut Butter and Date Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of dates, all while keeping added sugars to a minimum. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup pitted Medjool dates, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend peanut butter and dates until smooth.
2. Add honey or maple syrup, oats, salt, and vanilla extract; process until well combined.
3. Roll mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
4. Place truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Cooking Time: None! These truffles are no-bake and ready to enjoy.
Summary
Indulge in the creamy goodness of peanut butter with these 18 delicious and nutritious recipe ideas. From breakfast to dessert, these treats are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Enjoy a Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie Bowl for breakfast, or try Healthy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies as a snack. Other highlights include Protein-Packed Peanut Butter Yogurt Parfait, Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Avocado Mousse, and Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Banana Bread. With options like these, you can satisfy your cravings while still staying healthy!
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