Pistachio butter has gained a loyal following in the UK for its rich flavour, creamy texture, and nutritional value. If you’re a fan of nut butters but crave something more gourmet and distinctive, nibbed pistachio butter is a game-changer. This homemade recipe allows you to create a silky, flavour-packed spread that beats shop-bought options—both in taste and quality.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a fool-proof DIY nibbed pistachio butter recipe using simple ingredients you can find locally. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, stirring it into porridge, or using it in baking, this homemade pistachio butter will elevate your everyday meals.
Why Make Pistachio Butter at Home?
Store-bought nut butters often contain added sugars, oils, and preservatives that dilute both taste and nutrition. Making pistachio butter from scratch means you control what goes in. You get to enjoy the pure, nutty essence of pistachios—unprocessed and full of natural goodness.
Benefits of Homemade Pistachio Butter:
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Natural and additive-free
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High in protein, fibre, and healthy fats
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Rich, earthy flavour with a luxurious texture
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Endless uses in cooking and baking
What is “Nibbed” Pistachio Butter?
“Nibbed” refers to a lightly crushed or roughly chopped texture before blending. This technique allows better roasting, easier blending, and preserves more flavour. It also adds a subtle crunch if you choose to keep the butter slightly chunky.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make about 250g of pistachio butter, you’ll need:
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250g shelled raw pistachios (unsalted)
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½ tsp sea salt (optional)
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1 tbsp neutral oil (e.g., grapeseed or sunflower, optional for smoother texture)
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1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for a hint of sweetness)
Equipment Required
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Baking tray
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Food processor or high-speed blender
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Airtight glass jar for storage
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Preheat and Roast
Preheat your oven to 160°C (fan-assisted). Spread the shelled pistachios evenly on a baking tray and roast for 7–10 minutes. Watch them closely; you want a light golden colour and a toasty aroma, not burnt nuts.
2. Cool and Nib
Allow the pistachios to cool slightly. Once cooled, place them in a ziplock bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or use a knife to roughly chop. You’re aiming for a nibbed, uneven texture—not finely ground.
3. Blend Until Smooth
Transfer the nibbed pistachios into a food processor. Blend on high speed for 5–8 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed. At first, it will look dry and crumbly. Gradually, oils will release and turn the mixture creamy.
If desired, add your oil at this stage to accelerate smoothness. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup, and season with a pinch of sea salt.
4. Texture Control
You can stop blending once the butter is creamy but still has a bit of grain, or continue until ultra-smooth. This depends on your preference.
5. Store Properly
Spoon your fresh pistachio butter into a sterilised glass jar. Keep refrigerated and consume within 2–3 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
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Spread on sourdough toast with banana slices
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Swirl into Greek yoghurt with berries
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Stir into porridge or overnight oats
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Use as a filling in pastries or croissants
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Blend into smoothies for a protein boost
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Drizzle over roasted vegetables for a nutty finish
Tips for the Best Pistachio Butter
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Use fresh, high-quality pistachios: For a rich flavour and vibrant green colour, source pistachios from reputable suppliers or organic shops in the UK.
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Be patient during blending: It takes time for the nuts to release their oils. Resist the urge to add too much oil early.
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Adjust sweetness to taste: Pistachios have a natural sweetness, so you might not need any sweetener at all.
Is Pistachio Butter Healthy?
Yes! Pistachios are packed with monounsaturated fats, which support heart health. They’re also high in protein, iron, and antioxidants. This makes pistachio butter a great alternative to peanut or almond butter—especially for those seeking variety or managing food sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
Making your own nibbed pistachio butter at home is not only satisfying but also a smart choice for clean eating and elevated snacking. With just a few steps, you’ll create a luxurious nut butter that rivals anything on the market. Whether you keep it simple or add a hint of sweetness, the result is a flavourful spread that you’ll keep coming back to.
So next time you’re craving something rich, creamy, and a little bit indulgent, whip up a batch of homemade nibbed pistachio butter—and enjoy the taste of pure pistachio perfection.