How to Make Coconut Butter at Home: A Simple Guide
This pantry-friendly recipe delivers pure, additive-free flavor in minutes.
Coconut butter is a rich, creamy spread made from one ingredient – unsweetened shredded coconut. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make it from scratch, what you can use it for, storage tips, and answers to the most common questions. Homemade coconut butter is deliciously wholesome, versatile, and comes together in about ten minutes with the right equipment.
Table of Contents
- What Is Coconut Butter?
- Why Make Your Own Coconut Butter?
- Ingredients & Equipment
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Tips & Troubleshooting
- Ways to Use Coconut Butter
- Nutritional Information
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is Coconut Butter?
Coconut butter, sometimes called coconut manna, is created by blending unsweetened shredded or desiccated coconut into a smooth, silky purée. Like other nut and seed butters, coconut butter contains all the fiber, healthy fats, and nutrients of the whole coconut, resulting in a thick, spreadable consistency with an intense coconut flavor. Unlike coconut oil, which is extracted fat, coconut butter incorporates both the oil and the dried coconut meat for a more decadent result.
Why Make Your Own Coconut Butter?
- Cost-effective: Homemade coconut butter is far cheaper than store-bought versions.
- Pure and natural: You control the ingredients—no sweeteners, flavors, or fillers—just pure coconut.
- Customizable: Adjust texture or amount as desired; create small or large batches.
- Quick and easy: Takes about 10 minutes with minimal clean-up.
Ingredients & Equipment
Ingredients
- Unsweetened shredded coconut or desiccated coconut (fine or medium shred). For best results, use high-quality coconut such as Bob’s Red Mill or from a bulk bin at a natural foods store.
Equipment
- Food processor: To achieve the right creamy texture, a food processor is highly recommended. Blenders tend to send the light flakes upward, preventing the mixture from turning buttery.
- Spatula
- Clean glass jar for storage
Ingredient Note
Do not use sweetened coconut or coconut flakes containing preservatives or added oils. Only unsweetened, plain coconut will yield the smooth, creamy butter you want.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making coconut butter is straightforward. Here is a breakdown of the process:
- Add coconut to the food processor: Pour 3-4 cups (about 8-10 ounces) of unsweetened shredded coconut into your food processor. The quantity must be enough to keep the blades immersed and processing effectively.
- Process the coconut: Turn on the food processor. The coconut will pass through several stages:
- First, it becomes a fine meal.
- Then, the mixture starts to clump.
- Soon, after 6-10 minutes, the coconut warms up from friction and the oils release, creating a thick, smooth, and creamy butter.
- Pause and scrape down: Every 1-2 minutes, stop and scrape down the sides to help all the coconut process evenly.
- Continue processing until creamy: The final texture should pour off a spoon in thick ribbons and have a shiny, smooth consistency without visible flakes. Do not stop too soon; if the mixture is gritty or dry, keep blending.
- Transfer and store: Spoon the coconut butter into a sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight for up to several weeks.
Visual Guide
As the coconut processes, you’ll notice:
- After 1 minute: Coconut starts to break down into a coarse meal.
- After 3-4 minutes: Coconut clumps together and sticks to the sides.
- After 6-10 minutes: Mixture becomes glossy, smooth, and pourable when warm.
This creamy transition is essential to making spreadable coconut butter. Patience is key!
Tips & Troubleshooting
- Food Processor vs Blender: Always use a food processor. Blenders tend to create a mess, tossing coconut flakes away from the blades, making it difficult to achieve the right texture.
- Don’t Add Water: Water causes coconut butter to seize and become unusable.
- Scrape Down Regularly: Scraping helps ensure all coconut is in contact with the blades, promoting even blending.
- Keep Blending: If it’s not turning liquid after several minutes, continue processing, pausing briefly to avoid overheating the machine. High-powered food processors may finish faster than entry-level models.
- Texture Too Thick? Coconut butter solidifies below 77ºF (25ºC). Warm the jar slightly in a water bath or microwave for a smoother spread.
What others are reading
Common Mistakes
- Using sweetened or moist coconut: This disrupts texture and shelf life.
- Trying to blend a small amount: Underfilling the food processor prevents proper butter formation.
- Stopping too early: Be patient, as the butter gets smoother with time.
Ways to Use Coconut Butter
Coconut butter’s rich coconut flavor makes it a unique addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Here are some favorite ways to enjoy it:
- Straight from the jar: By the spoonful as a wholesome snack.
- Topping: Drizzle over hot pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or ice cream for a creamy coconut finish.
- Spread: Use as a spread over toast, muffins, or banana bread.
- Swirled into smoothies: Add a spoonful for extra creaminess and thickness.
- Baking: Try in coconut fudge, vegan fudge, truffles, or white chocolate confections for plant-based treats.
- Pair with vegetables: Spread over roasted sweet potatoes or stir into cooked grains.
- Mix into sauces or dressings: For a subtle coconut undertone in savory recipes.
Nutritional Information
| Serving Size | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 tbsp (14g) | 93* | 9g | 4g | 1g | 2g |
*Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on brand of coconut used and processing method.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
It is not recommended. Blenders push the coconut flakes upward, away from the blades, making it nearly impossible to blend the coconut down into a butter. A food processor is specifically designed for this type of blending.
What type of coconut should I buy?
Use unsweetened shredded coconut or unsweetened desiccated coconut for best results. Look for coconut that is preservative-free, as additives can alter the taste and texture. Bob’s Red Mill and Whole Foods bulk bins are reliable choices.
How should I store homemade coconut butter?
Store coconut butter in a clean, airtight glass jar at room temperature. It solidifies below 77ºF (25ºC), so you may need to warm it before scooping. Avoid refrigerating unless in a very hot climate, as cool storage can make the butter extremely hard.
How long does coconut butter last?
When stored properly at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture, coconut butter lasts for several weeks. Always use a clean, dry spoon to avoid contamination.
Why did my coconut butter turn gritty or seize?
If your coconut butter has a gritty texture, it may need more blending time. Seizing happens if any water is added—even residual water from the equipment can cause this. Use only dry tools and containers.
Is coconut butter the same as coconut oil?
No. Coconut oil is pure fat extracted from coconut flesh, while coconut butter includes the full coconut meat, making it thicker and more nutrient-rich. Coconut butter provides both fiber and micronutrients along with healthy fats.
Can I flavor my coconut butter?
Yes! For variety, try adding vanilla, cinnamon, or cocoa powder after making the basic coconut butter.
Related Recipes & Inspiration
- 5-Ingredient Chocolate Coconut Butter Cups: Combine coconut butter with cocoa butter, maple syrup, and sea salt for a decadent treat.
- Coconut Butter Fudge: Use as a base for vegan fudge and other plant-based confections.
- Pumpkin Spice Cake Bites with Coconut Butter Glaze: Try coconut butter as a glaze for baked goods.
Final Tips for Homemade Coconut Butter
- Be patient: Allow enough time for the coconut to break down; it can take up to ten minutes.
- Use enough coconut: Underfilling your processor may not yield a smooth butter.
- Store at room temperature: Coconut butter solidifies when cold. Rewarm gently as needed.
Share Your Coconut Butter Creations!
Did you try this coconut butter recipe? Leave a comment with your tips or flavor variations, and don’t forget to tag your creations on social media for a chance to be featured. Coconut butter is easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Enjoy experimenting and adding a taste of coconut to your favorite dishes!
References
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