I think, by now, that everyone is well aware of my coconut obsession. I’m basically always on the lookout for new ways to use coconut, especially for my DIYs. In fact, I’ve already made homemade Coconut Milk, Virgin Coconut Oil, Coconut Chips, Shredded Coconut (Desiccated Coconut), and a post on How To Make Coconut Bowls At Home. Now I’m going to discuss how to make coconut butter – using just one ingredient and around 10 minutes of your time. It’s dairy-free, refined sugar-free, 100% vegan, and 150% DELICIOUS (no, really, it truly is!).
What is Coconut Butter?
I know there can be some confusion around this, as there are so many different coconut products. Milk, cream, oil, butter, desiccated, etc. However, you can think of coconut butter similar to peanut (or any other nut) butter, as it uses the coconut flesh to create delicious, creamy coconut butter. If you’re a fan of the sweet, creamy coconut taste, then coconut butter is to die for. In fact, I’ve managed to keep this recipe to ONE ingredient by not including any sweeteners, as personally, I don’t think it needs it. This homemade coconut butter is then super versatile and can be used for so many different recipes! Not to mention that it is definitely cost-effective, in comparison to a good quality organic store-bought version. While you can use any coconut for this recipe, I suggest using a good quality organic coconut for the best quality taste, although obviously, this will make the method more expensive. (And, of course, if you’re wanting to buy ready-made desiccated coconut then I’d suggest an organic version!).
What Can I Use Coconut Butter for?
Honestly, coconut butter is my kryptonite. I can (and do) eat it with a spoon straight from the jar. So I definitely wouldn’t judge you for doing the same. However, if you want actually to use it within recipes. This coconut butter can be used in a similar way to other nut butters:
As a spread for toast, within smoothies, to top porridge/oats, as a drizzle, etc. Coconut butter can also be used as a non-dairy creamer for hot drinks. Plus, I love to use it in baked goods and for other sweet treats. Some of my favorite options include dairy-free fudge, cookies, bars, and other raw treats like bliss/fat balls. It’s also delicious when used in place of nut butters in these 5-Ingredient Healthier Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups.
How to Make Coconut Butter
The process of making homemade coconut butter is ridiculously simple. Simply get your desiccated coconut (I love to use homemade desiccated coconut. However, you can use store-bought) and add it to a blender. Note* If you aren’t using fresh, homemade desiccated coconut then your store-bought version may be a bit dry and won’t blend into a smooth butter. There are two ways to combat this. You can either bake the coconut in the oven for 10 minutes at 210ºF/100ºC. This will begin to release the oils within the coconut. Alternatively, you can add 1/2-1 Tbsp coconut oil to the blender. This helps “get things started”. As the blender works to break down the coconut, oils from within the coconut will be released and will contribute to making a coconut paste, which eventually becomes a smooth coconut butter. I am lucky to have a great high-speed blender. However, if you’re worried that yours might not be up to the job. Have no fear! Simply blend it up till it looks lovely and smooth then run it through a sieve into a container. The remaining coconut pulp can then be put back into the blender to repeat the process. This way you still get a lovely smooth butter, it will just take slightly longer. During the process, you may need to stop your blender and scrape down the sides a few times. The whole process should take between 5-10 minutes. Top Tip: If you’re wanting to try another super delicious variation of coconut butter, then try using toasted coconut flakes (organic still, of course). You won’t regret it! You also make flavored variations of this coconut butter. Although be warned, this will affect the shelf life of the coconut butter. Some of my favorite options are a sweet maple variety, vanilla, cocoa, or even strawberry. Let me know in the comments below if you’d like me to share the exact recipes.
Related Recipes
For other coconut-inspired recipes feel free to check out this coconut-based golden milk, Vegan Thai Green Curry, or even my Homemade bounty bars. Alternatively, if you want some other DIY inspiration then feel free to check out this Homemade herb butter, DIY Vegan Nutella, DIY Vanilla Powder, Two-Ingredient simple DIY Vanilla Extract, Homemade Oat Milk (that isn’t slimy), homemade Natural Yogurt or even this Organic Rose Water. Just to name a few. You can find more in the DIY category in this blog. If you try this recipe, I’d love to know your thoughts in the comments. Also, feel free to tag me in your creations @AlphaFoodie.
