The Best Guide On How To Store Almond Butter

Have you ever wondered about the proper way of how to store almond butter, ensuring it retains its taste and nutritional goodness? In this guide, we’ll cover all things regarding almond butter storage, offering simple steps to keep this healthy snack at its best. From the pantry to the refrigerator, discover the key techniques that ensure your own almond butter remains safe to consume.

Related: how to freeze almond milk

Full image for how to store almond butter article.

Why is Storing Almond Butter Correctly Important?

Here are a few of the main reasons why you should know how to store almond butter:

It’s crucial for maintaining its freshness, nutty flavor, and nutritional quality.
Proper storage prevents ending up with a jar of rancid almond butter, maintaining its creamy texture. Proper storage also ensures a longer shelf life. This same storage method can be applied to peanut butter or other natural nut butters.

How Long Does Almond Butter Last After Being Opened?

The shelf life of opened almond butter can vary depending on factors like storage conditions and whether it’s homemade or store-bought.

Store-Bought Almond Butter: Typically, once opened, store-bought almond butter can last for three to five months if stored properly in a dry place. Always check the product’s label for any specific instructions or “best-by” date. These instructions may vary from brand to brand. When stored in the refrigerator, store-bought nut butter can keep well for up to a year.
Homemade Almond Butter: If you’ve made creamy almond butter at home, know that its shelf life will be much shorter than commercially processed versions because it lacks preservatives. Generally, it can last around two to three weeks in the refrigerator, but this can vary. For room temperature storage, it’s always a good idea to place your glass jars of nut butter in a cool and dark place, ensuring they are kept away from any heat sources. It will keep for about a week using this method.

Important Step-By-Step Storage Instructions

Cool and Dry Location: Store almond butter in a cool place, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures. Storing in a dry pantry or cupboard is the easiest way.
Air-Tight Container: If making your own nut butter, transfer it to a clean, airtight container such as a mason jar.
Refrigeration: While not mandatory, refrigerating almond butter can extend its shelf life. This is especially true for natural or homemade varieties without preservatives.
Stirring Before Storage: It’s common for the surface of your almond butter to have natural oils that separate and settle on top. If that does happen, give it a good stir before storage to distribute the nut oils evenly. Our favorite way to distribute the healthy oils is to place the almond butter jar upside down on the kitchen counter. After waiting a few minutes, the oil separation should be gone.

Signs of Spoilage

Keep an eye out for the following signs to determine whether your jar of almond butter might be spoiled:

Off Smell: Spoiled almond butter might have a sour or rancid smell. Fresh almond butter has a mild, nutty aroma.
Change in Color: Look for any discoloration or darkening, which can indicate spoilage.
Unusual Texture: Spoiled almond butter may develop an unusual texture, such as being excessively dry or overly sticky.
Off Taste: A bitter or unpleasant taste is a clear sign that the almond butter is no longer good.

How to Keep Almond Butter From Going Bad

To prevent spoilage and extend the shelf life of your natural almond butter, follow these key practices:

Clean Rim: Keep the inside and outside rim of the jar clean and free from any nut butter buildup.
Seal the Jar Properly: Ensure the jar is tightly sealed after each use. This helps to prevent the entry of air and moisture, both of which can contribute to spoilage.
Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use clean utensils every time you scoop almond butter. Avoid introducing moisture or crumbs into the jar, as these can promote bacterial growth.
Refrigeration (Optional): While almond butter doesn’t necessarily require refrigeration, storing it in the fridge can slow down the oxidation process and extend its freshness. However, it may become thicker in the fridge, so bring it to room temperature before use.
Rotate Stock: If you have multiple jars, use the older ones first. This helps to maintain a fresh supply and prevents any from sitting too long.

Regularly inspect your almond butter for any off smells, unusual colors, or the presence of mold. If you notice anything unusual, discard the product.

Remember, almond butter, like any food product, won’t last indefinitely. Always check the expiration date if available and follow good hygiene practices to ensure its longevity and safety.

How is Almond Butter Made?

Almond butter is typically made by blending almonds until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency. Here’s a basic process for making almond butter:

Choose Your Almonds: You can use either raw or roasted almonds based on your preference. Roasted almonds will add extra flavor to the butter.
Roasting (Optional): If you’re using raw almonds and prefer a roasted flavor, you can roast them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes. Allow them to cool before proceeding.
Blend Almonds: Place the hot nuts in a high-powered food processor or high-speed blender. Process at high speed.
Scrape Down the Sides: During the blending process, you may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor to ensure even consistency.
Optional Add-Ins: If desired, add a pinch of salt, a sweetener like honey or maple syrup, or any flavorings you prefer. This step is optional and depends on your taste preferences.
Continue Blending: Keep blending until the almonds release their natural oils, and the mixture turns into a smooth and creamy butter. This may take some time, and a bit of patience.
Adjust Consistency: If the almond butter is too thick, you can add a little oil (such as almond or coconut oil) to achieve the desired consistency.
Store: Transfer the almond butter to a clean, airtight jar.

Homemade Version Vs. Store-Bought Versions

Storing homemade almond butter follows similar principles as store-bought. However, because homemade versions lack a key ingredient: preservatives, which as we mentioned, means they may have a shorter shelf life. Refrigerating homemade almond butter can help maintain freshness for a more extended period.

Knowing how to store almond butter ensures you can enjoy its rich flavor and nutritional benefits for an extended time. Remember the best way to preserve its freshness is by storing it in airtight jars.

Whether you’re spreading it on a rice cake or adding a little bit of sweetness with a drizzle of honey and fresh fruits, keeping it stored in the right place ensures the integrity of your almond butter remains in tact.

Lady holding tray of rice cakes with almond butter.

Common Questions About How to Store Almond Butter

Can I Store Almond Butter in Plastic Containers?

While it’s possible to store almond butter in plastic containers, opt for those labeled BPA-free to avoid potential chemical leaching. A glass jar is often what’s recommended for longer storage.

How Can I Keep Almond Butter From Separating?

Stirring almond butter well before storing it can help prevent separation. Additionally, store it upside down, especially in the refrigerator, as this can slow down oil separation.

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