Cashew Butter Recipe Vegan: Easy, Creamy, and Delicious

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Craving a creamy, rich, and wholesome spread that’s perfect for your morning toast or smoothie bowls? Look no further than homemade vegan cashew butter.

This simple yet delicious recipe transforms raw or roasted cashews into a luscious, dairy-free butter that’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and a subtly sweet flavor. Whether you’re vegan, allergic to peanuts, or simply in search of a nutritious alternative to traditional nut butters, making your own cashew butter at home is easier than you might think.

Plus, it offers the freedom to customize with your favorite add-ins like a pinch of sea salt, a dash of cinnamon, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Say goodbye to store-bought versions laden with preservatives and hello to fresh, wholesome goodness!

In this post, we’ll guide you through a straightforward process to create smooth, creamy cashew butter with just a few ingredients and minimal equipment. So grab your food processor, and let’s dive into the world of homemade vegan cashew butter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cashew butter recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses only natural ingredients, with no added preservatives or unhealthy oils.

The texture is buttery smooth yet thick enough to spread generously on your favorite bread or crackers. It’s incredibly versatile—perfect for baking, cooking, or simply enjoying as a snack.

Making it at home lets you control the flavor and texture, customizing it to your liking. Plus, cashews are a fantastic plant-based source of healthy fats, magnesium, and antioxidants, making this butter a nutrient-dense addition to your diet.

And if you’re interested in other wholesome vegan recipes, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the cozy Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food for more plant-based inspiration.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups raw cashews (or roasted if preferred)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, to taste)
  • 1-2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as avocado or light olive oil; optional for creamier texture)
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances flavor)

Equipment

  • High-powered food processor or blender – essential for smooth consistency
  • Spatula – for scraping down the sides
  • Measuring spoons – for precise additions
  • Air-tight jar or container – to store your cashew butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare your cashews: If using raw cashews, you can toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. This step is optional but enhances the nutty flavor.
  2. Add cashews to the food processor: Pour the cashews into your food processor or blender. Secure the lid tightly.
  3. Process the cashews: Pulse the nuts several times to break them down, then blend continuously. The cashews will go through several stages: from chopped nuts to a coarse meal, then a thick paste, and eventually to a smooth, creamy butter. This can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes depending on your machine. Pause every minute or so to scrape down the sides with a spatula.
  4. Add oil and flavorings: Once the cashews start to form a thick paste, add oil, sea salt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract if using. Continue processing until fully incorporated and the butter is smooth and spreadable.
  5. Check texture and taste: If the cashew butter is too thick, add another teaspoon of oil and blend again. Taste and adjust salt or sweetness as desired.
  6. Transfer and store: Spoon the cashew butter into an airtight jar or container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Stir before each use as natural oils may separate.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra creamy texture, be patient with your food processor. It might take a few minutes, but the transformation from powdery nuts to luscious butter is worth the wait!”

  • Raw vs. Roasted: Roasting cashews enhances flavor but raw nuts make a milder, more neutral butter.
  • Add spices: Try cinnamon, cardamom, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for unique flavor twists.
  • Sweeten naturally: Instead of maple syrup, use agave nectar or coconut sugar.
  • Boost nutrition: Stir in chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds after blending for added omega-3s and fiber.
  • Chunky style: Reserve 1/4 cup of cashews, pulse them separately, then mix into the smooth butter for a crunchy texture.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per 2 tbsp (32g)
Calories 190
Fat 16g
Saturated Fat 3g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 1g
Sugars 1g
Protein 5g
Magnesium 82mg (20% DV)

Serving Suggestions

  • Spread generously on warm toast or bagels with fresh fruit slices.
  • Swirl into oatmeal or smoothie bowls for creamy richness.
  • Use as a dip for apple wedges, celery sticks, or carrot batons.
  • Incorporate into vegan baking recipes such as cookies or muffins for natural nutty flavor.
  • Make a quick sauce by mixing cashew butter with soy sauce, lime juice, and a bit of maple syrup—perfect for drizzling over steamed vegetables or grain bowls.

Conclusion

Homemade vegan cashew butter is a delightful and nutritious way to elevate your meals and snacks. Its creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor make it an excellent alternative to traditional nut butters, especially for those with dietary preferences or allergies.

Beyond its delicious taste, it’s packed with essential nutrients like healthy fats, protein, and magnesium, supporting overall wellness.

With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create this luscious spread right in your kitchen. Plus, the possibilities to customize and experiment with flavors are endless!

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love exploring other delicious dishes like our Cajun Ranch Wing Sauce Recipe or the refreshing Huckleberry Margarita Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your homemade cashew butter adventure!

📖 Recipe Card: Cashew Butter Recipe Vegan

Description: A creamy and delicious homemade cashew butter perfect for vegan diets. Made with just cashews and a pinch of salt, it's simple and nutritious.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 1 cup

Ingredients

  • 2 cups raw cashews
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (optional, e.g. avocado or sunflower oil)
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread cashews on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes until golden.
  3. Allow cashews to cool slightly.
  4. Place cashews in a food processor and blend until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
  5. Add salt, oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract if using; blend until fully incorporated.
  6. Store cashew butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition: Calories: 190 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 16g | Carbs: 9g

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Cashew Butter Recipe Vegan”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A creamy and delicious homemade cashew butter perfect for vegan diets. Made with just cashews and a pinch of salt, it’s simple and nutritious.”, “prepTime”: “PT5M”, “cookTime”: “PT15M”, “totalTime”: “PT20M”, “recipeYield”: “1 cup”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 cups raw cashews”, “1/4 teaspoon salt”, “1 tablespoon neutral oil (optional, e.g. avocado or sunflower oil)”, “1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)”, “1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Preheat oven to 350\u00b0F (175\u00b0C).”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Spread cashews on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes until golden.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Allow cashews to cool slightly.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Place cashews in a food processor and blend until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add salt, oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract if using; blend until fully incorporated.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Store cashew butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “190”, “proteinContent”: “5g”, “fatContent”: “16g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “9g”}}

Photo of author

Marta K

Leave a Comment

X