Table of Contents
Looking for a healthy spread that’s not your usual almond or peanut butter? Hemp seed butter might be your new go-to! I recently started making it at home, and it’s surprisingly easy – just blend up some hemp seeds until they turn into this creamy, nutty spread.
What’s cool about hemp butter is that it’s packed with good stuff like protein and omega-3s, which are great for your heart and muscles. Plus, it’s been amazing for my skin! I love adding it to my morning smoothies or just spreading it on toast.
Don’t worry – this is totally different from the hemp you might be thinking of. It’s just made from nutritious seeds that happen to come from the same plant family. If you’re into natural foods or trying to eat more plant-based, you’ll definitely want to give this a try.
In this article, you’ll discover how to make hemp seed butter at home, along with some flavorful variations, creative uses, and more insight into its health benefits.
What is Hemp Seed Butter?
Hey! Let me tell you about hemp seed butter – it’s basically what happens when you blend hemp seeds until they turn super creamy, kind of like peanut butter but with its own unique thing going on.
Hemp seed butter is a creamy, spreadable paste made by blending hemp seeds into a smooth consistency. Often referred to as hemp butter or hemp seed spread, it’s similar in texture to other nut and seed butters like almond or sunflower butter. However, it stands out for its earthy, nutty flavor and exceptional nutritional profile.
The taste? It’s got this nice nutty flavor that’s not too strong, and honestly, it works with pretty much everything. I love that it’s not as sweet as peanut butter. You can eat it plain or get creative – sometimes I add a bit of cinnamon or vanilla to mix things up.
The best part is how healthy this stuff is. Hemp seeds (some people call them hemp hearts) are loaded with protein and those good-for-you omega-3s. And while you can buy hemp seed butter at stores, making it at home is super easy and lets you control exactly what goes in it.
I’ve been spreading it on my morning toast and mixing it into oatmeal – even used it to make this amazing dip the other day! Want to try making some? It’s way easier than you’d think!
History and Popularity of Hemp Seed Butter
Hey, did you know hemp seeds have actually been around forever? People have been using them for food and health benefits for thousands of years, which is pretty cool. The butter part is newer though – it’s basically just become a thing as more people are getting into plant-based eating.
What’s funny is how hemp seed butter went from being practically unknown to showing up everywhere. I guess it makes sense – more folks are looking for alternatives to regular butter and nut spreads these days, especially if they’re vegan or have allergies. Plus, it’s packed with protein and those omega-3s everyone’s talking about.
I’ve noticed it popping up in all sorts of recipes lately, from breakfast smoothies to baked treats. It’s kind of neat to see something so ancient getting a modern makeover and becoming this trendy wellness food. But unlike some health food trends, this one actually seems worth the hype!
Health Benefits of Hemp Seed Butter
Let me tell you why I’m such a fan of hemp seed butter – it’s basically a nutritional powerhouse disguised as a tasty spread!
- Rich in Plant-Based Protein: The protein in hemp seeds contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. This promotes muscle repair, growth, and overall energy production.
- Packed with Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Hemp seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation. These healthy fats can also support glowing skin and may help manage conditions like eczema, as omega-3s are known to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce irritation.
- Supports Skin Health: The essential fatty acids found in hemp seed butter, such as omega-3 and omega-6, help maintain healthy, hydrated skin and may alleviate symptoms of eczema and other skin conditions.
- Boosts Heart Health: The butter contains a heart-healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels, improve circulation, and support overall cardiovascular health.
- Aids in Digestion: Fiber promotes regular bowel movements and helps maintain gut health, which is crucial for nutrient absorption and overall well-being.
- Sustainably Sourced Nutrition: Hemp plants grow quickly and require minimal resources, making hemp seed butter a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice for your pantry.
How to Make Homemade Hemp Seed Butter in 5 Minutes
Hey! I’ve been making my own hemp seed butter lately and it’s ridiculously easy – seriously, it takes like 5 minutes! Let me share my go-to recipe with you.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of hulled hemp seeds (hemp hearts)
- 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil (optional, for added creaminess)
- A pinch of salt (optional, for flavor)
- Optional flavor add-ins:
- Vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness
- Cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor
- Cacao powder for a chocolatey twist
Here’s how I do it:
ust dump those hemp hearts into your blender and let it rip! At first, it’ll look like powder, but keep going – it’ll start getting creamy as the natural oils come out. Sometimes I have to scrape down the sides with a spatula to get everything blended evenly.
If it seems a bit too thick, that’s when I add a tablespoon or two of coconut oil. And here’s where you can get creative – sometimes I throw in a bit of vanilla extract or cinnamon. My kids love it when I add some cacao powder to make it chocolatey!
Quick tip: store it in the fridge and it’ll stay good for about two weeks. I keep mine in a mason jar with a tight lid.
The best part? You can use it just like any other spread! It’s amazing on toast, and I love adding a spoonful to my morning smoothie. Plus, you know exactly what’s in it – no weird preservatives or extra stuff you can’t pronounce.
Want to make it a bit fancier? Try lightly toasting the hemp hearts first – it gives them this awesome nutty flavor. Just keep an eye on them because they can burn pretty quickly!
Flavored Hemp Seed Butter Variations
While plain hemp seed butter is already delicious and nutritious, adding different flavors can take it to the next level. By incorporating a variety of natural ingredients, you can create personalized, flavorful spreads that suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some creative and easy variations of hemp seed butter that you can whip up in minutes!
- Cinnamon Hemp Seed Butter
- Vanilla Hemp Seed Butter
- Cacao Hemp Seed Butter
- Garlic and Herb Hemp Seed Butter
- Maple Pecan Hemp Seed Butter
- Spicy Chili Hemp Seed Butter
These flavored hemp seed butter variations are easy to make and provide a tasty twist on the classic homemade spread. Whether you prefer sweet or savory flavors, these additions bring out the versatility of hemp seed butter, making it a great option for any meal or snack. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors to discover your favorite combination!
Creative Ways to Use The Butter
Hey! Let me share some of my favorite ways to use hemp seed butter – it’s way more versatile than you might think!
For breakfast, I love adding a spoonful to my morning smoothies. My go-to combo is banana, almond milk, hemp butter, and some spinach. It makes the smoothie super creamy and adds a nice protein boost. Sometimes I’ll swirl it into my oatmeal too – so good with a drizzle of honey!
For snacks, I’ve been making these awesome energy balls. Just mix hemp butter with oats, honey, and whatever add-ins you like (chocolate chips are my weakness!). Roll them into balls, pop them in the fridge, and you’ve got perfect grab-and-go snacks.
Here’s something wild – you can even make a healthy “Nutella” with it! Just blend hemp butter with some cacao powder and maple syrup. My kids actually prefer it to the real thing!
And don’t just think sweet – it makes an amazing savory sauce too. I thin it out with some lemon juice and herbs for a creamy salad dressing, or use it as a base for vegan pesto. It’s really good on roasted veggies!
The best part is you can basically use it anywhere you’d use regular nut butter. Just get creative with it!
Also Read: King Oyster Mushroom Recipe with Garlic Butter
FAQs
Is hemp seed butter good for you?
Yes, hemp seed butter is highly nutritious and offers several health benefits. It’s packed with healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, and is an excellent source of plant-based protein. It also contains important vitamins and minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron, which support overall health.
What does hemp butter taste like?
Hemp seed butter has a mild, nutty flavor with a slightly earthy taste. It’s not as sweet as peanut butter or almond butter, making it a more neutral option that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. The texture is creamy and smooth, similar to other nut butters, but with a distinct hemp flavor that some might find refreshing and unique.
Is hemp seed butter good for eczema?
Hemp seed butter may be beneficial for eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties and high content of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats can help reduce skin inflammation and keep the skin hydrated. The butter’s moisturizing qualities can also soothe dry, irritated skin commonly associated with eczema. However, as with any topical product, it’s important to patch-test first and consult with a healthcare provider if you have sensitive skin or allergies.