There’s something undeniably comforting about the classic combination of almond butter and jelly. It brings back nostalgic memories of childhood lunches and carefree afternoons. However, in the spirit of clean eating, we’re taking this beloved duo to new heights. By making your own almond butter and pairing it with fruit-sweetened preserves, you can create a delicious, wholesome treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Get ready to savor the rich, nutty flavor of homemade almond butter paired with the sweet, fruity goodness of jelly!

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe for Clean Eating Almond Butter and Jelly is one of my favorites because it’s not only simple to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can spread it on whole grain toast, use it as a dip for fresh fruit, or even swirl it into your morning oatmeal. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into your almond butter means you can control the ingredients, ensuring a nutritious and delightful spread that your whole family will love.

The Ingredient Lineup

To whip up this clean eating almond butter and jelly, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups almonds, peeled – The star of the show, almonds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances the flavor of the almonds beautifully.
1 1/2 tablespoons almond oil or peanut oil or olive oil (not virgin or extra virgin varieties) – This adds creaminess and helps achieve the perfect texture.
1 tablespoon honey or other natural sweetener (such as maple syrup or agave nectar, optional) – Sweeten to your preference; this is optional based on how sweet you want your almond butter.
1 cup fruit-sweetened preserves of choice (jam or jelly, homemade or store-bought) – Choose your favorite flavor to add a delightful fruity layer.

Must-Have Equipment

Before you dive into making your Clean Eating Almond Butter and Jelly, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

High-Powered Blender or Food Processor – This is essential for creating creamy almond butter from whole nuts.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements will ensure your nut butter is just right.
Spatula – A spatula helps in scraping down the sides of your blender or processor.
Storage Jar – An airtight jar for storing your almond butter will keep it fresh for weeks.

Step-by-Step: Clean Eating Almond Butter and Jelly

Ready to create your own almond butter? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Almonds

Begin by placing your peeled almonds in a high-powered blender or food processor. This will be the base for your almond butter.

Step 2: Blend Until Smooth

Blend the almonds on high speed. Initially, they will turn into a coarse meal, but keep blending. After a few minutes, the oils will start to release, and it will turn into creamy almond butter.

Step 3: Add Salt and Oil

Once you’ve reached a smooth consistency, add in the salt and your choice of oil. Blend again until thoroughly mixed. You can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more oil if needed.

Step 4: Sweeten to Taste

If you prefer a little sweetness, add honey or your chosen natural sweetener. Blend one more time until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Transfer to Storage Jar

Using a spatula, transfer your almond butter into a clean storage jar. Scrape down the sides of the blender or processor to get every last bit!

Step 6: Serve with Jelly

Now that your almond butter is ready, spread it generously on whole grain toast or use it as a dip for fresh fruit, pairing it with your favorite fruit-sweetened preserves or jelly.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

If you want to switch things up or cater to different taste preferences, consider these alternatives:

Mixed Nut Butter – Blend in other nuts like cashews or walnuts for a unique flavor.
Chocolate Almond Butter – Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey twist.
Spiced Almond Butter – Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Vanilla Almond Butter – A splash of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor profile significantly.

Errors to Dodge

When making Clean Eating Almond Butter and Jelly, be mindful of these common mistakes:

Not Blending Long Enough: Ensure you blend the almonds long enough to achieve a creamy texture. This can take 5-10 minutes depending on your machine.
Using Too Much Oil: Start with a small amount of oil and add more gradually. You don’t want your almond butter to be overly greasy.
Skipping the Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial for enhancing the flavors, so don’t skip it.
Choosing the Wrong Type of Preserves: Opt for fruit-sweetened preserves to keep the clean eating vibe alive; avoid those filled with artificial sugars.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Preparing Clean Eating Almond Butter and Jelly in advance is a great way to save time. Here are some pro tips:

Batch Prep: Make a larger batch of almond butter and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Individual Servings: Pre-portion your almond butter into small containers for easy grab-and-go snacks.
Mix and Match: Prepare different flavors of almond butter and store them separately to mix and match with your jelly choices throughout the week.

Ask & Learn

Can I use raw almonds instead of peeled almonds?

Yes, you can use raw almonds, but peeled almonds tend to create a smoother texture. If using raw, you may want to roast them for enhanced flavor.

How do I store almond butter?

Store your almond butter in an airtight jar in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It can last for up to two weeks when refrigerated.

Can I substitute other nuts for almonds?

Absolutely! Cashews, peanuts, or even sunflower seeds can be used to create delicious nut butters with similar methods.

Is it possible to make almond butter without oil?

Yes, you can make almond butter without oil. Just be prepared for a thicker texture, and be sure to blend it longer to help the almonds release their natural oils.

Final Bite

Creating your own Clean Eating Almond Butter and Jelly is not just about making a spread; it’s about embracing a wholesome lifestyle. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious, nutritious treat that satisfies your cravings and fuels your day. Whether you’re slathering it on toast or dipping fresh fruits, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your almonds, blend away, and indulge in the goodness of homemade almond butter paired with sweet, fruity preserves. Happy eating!