Pumpkin Seed Butter: A Nut-Free, One-Ingredient Spread You’ll Love

Pumpkin Seed Butter: A Nut-Free, One-Ingredient Spread You’ll Love

Say hello to your new favorite spread: Pumpkin Seed Butter! This nut-free, vibrant green butter is made from just one ingredient—pepitas (pumpkin seed kernels)—and it’s as versatile as it is delicious. Creamy, nutty, and packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for spreading on toast, stirring into oatmeal, or adding a wholesome twist to desserts. With a quick toast in the oven and a whirl in your blender, you’ll have a smooth, spreadable treat in no time. Let’s dive into this simple, heart-healthy recipe that’s vegan, gluten-free, and oh-so-good!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Seed Butter

• One-Ingredient Simplicity: Just pumpkin seeds, transformed into a creamy spread with minimal effort.

• Nut-Free & Allergy-Friendly: A fantastic alternative to nut butters, perfect for those with allergies.

• Nutrient-Packed: Pepitas are rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, plus zinc and magnesium for a nutritional boost.

• Versatile: Use it as a spread, dip, or ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

Ingredients (Makes ~1.5 Cups)

• 3 cups (about 400g) pepitas (pumpkin seed kernels, raw and unsalted)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Pinch of sea salt (enhances flavor)

• Sweetener of choice (e.g., 1-2 tsp maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness)

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (for a warm, cozy vibe)

Instructions

1. Toast the Pepitas: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the pumpkin seeds evenly on a lined baking tray. Bake for 5-10 minutes, stirring halfway, until lightly golden and fragrant. Watch closely to avoid burning, as they toast quickly. Let cool slightly.

2. Blend into Butter: Transfer the toasted pepitas to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blitz on low to medium speed until the seeds break down into a fine meal, scraping down the sides as needed. Continue processing until the seeds release their natural oils and transform into a smooth, runny paste. This can take up to 20 minutes, depending on your appliance. Pro Tip: If using a blender, a tamper is essential for smooth blending; a food processor is often easier for this task.

3. Customize (Optional): Once smooth, taste and add optional sea salt, sweetener, or cinnamon, blending briefly to combine.

4. Store: Transfer the pumpkin seed butter to a clean, airtight jar. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Stir before using if the oils separate.

Tips for Success

• Toasting Tip: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor, but don’t skip it if you’re in a rush—raw pepitas will still work, though the flavor will be milder.

• Blending Patience: Be patient as the seeds turn from meal to butter. Pause if your machine overheats and scrape down the sides regularly for even blending.

• Customization: Add salt for savory uses (like dips or sauces) or sweetener and cinnamon for sweet applications (like smoothies or baked goods).

• Uses: Spread on toast with sliced banana, swirl into oatmeal, blend into smoothies, or use as a base for salad dressings or dessert toppings.

• Storage: A thin layer of oil on top of the jar helps keep the butter fresh longer. Stir before each use.

Why This Pumpkin Seed Butter Is a Game-Changer

This Pumpkin Seed Butter is a creamy, nutty dream that’s as nutritious as it is versatile. The pepitas’ naturally rich flavor shines through after toasting, creating a spread that’s perfect for everything from breakfast to dessert. Its vibrant green hue adds a fun pop of color, and its nut-free status makes it a great option for allergy-friendly kitchens. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or sneaking it into a recipe, this butter delivers big on flavor and health benefits with minimal effort. So, grab those pepitas and get blending! Have you tried seed butters before, or do you have a favorite way to use them? Drop your thoughts in the comments section on Pinterest—I’d love to hear! and check out the Ultimate Plant-Based Cookbook below! Happy spreading!