Cashew butter substitutes
Cashew butter substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Almond butter
Same amount as the cashew butter
Smooth spread made from ground almonds with similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
The best substitutes for cashew butter are almond butter, peanut butter, tahini, or sunflower seed butter depending on your dietary needs and flavor preferences.
- The tweak —
- Stir well before using as it may separate.
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of cashew butter |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Almond butterbaking | Same amount |
| 2 | Peanut butterbaking | Same amount |
| 3 | Tahinisauces | Same amount |
| 4 | Sunflower seed butterbaking | Same amount |
| 5 | Macadamia nut butterbaking | Same amount |
Almond butter
nutty, slightly sweeter
Smooth spread made from ground almonds with similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
- Best for
- baking, smoothies, spreading, sauces, dips
- Texture
- smooth, creamy
- Prep
- Stir well before using as it may separate.
Slightly sweeter than cashew butter but similar texture. May need to stir before using.
Peanut butter
stronger, more intense · similar texture
Classic nut butter with stronger flavor and similar creamy texture.
- Best for
- baking, smoothies, sandwiches, sauces, cookies
- Prep
- Choose smooth or crunchy based on preference.
Stronger flavor than cashew butter. More affordable and widely available.
Tahini
nutty, slightly bitter
Sesame seed paste with similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
- Best for
- sauces, dips, dressings, hummus, savory dishes
- Texture
- smooth, creamy
- Prep
- May need to stir before using.
More savory than cashew butter. Great for Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes.
Sunflower seed butter
nutty, slightly different
Nut-free alternative made from ground sunflower seeds with similar texture.
- Best for
- baking, spreading, smoothies, allergies, school-safe
- Texture
- smooth, creamy
- Prep
- May have a slightly different color.
Nut-free option for those with tree nut allergies. Similar texture to cashew butter.
Macadamia nut butter
rich, buttery
Rich, creamy butter made from macadamia nuts with similar texture.
- Best for
- baking, spreading, sauces, desserts, luxury applications
- Texture
- smooth, creamy
- Prep
- May need to stir before using.
More expensive but similar creamy texture. Rich, buttery flavor.
Questions
5 questionsCan I substitute peanut butter for cashew butter?
Yes, peanut butter can be substituted for cashew butter in a 1:1 ratio. Peanut butter has a stronger flavor, so consider this when using in delicate recipes.
What's the best cashew butter substitute for baking?
Almond butter is the best substitute for baking as it has a similar mild flavor and creamy texture. Peanut butter also works well but has a stronger taste.
Can I use tahini instead of cashew butter?
Yes, tahini can substitute for cashew butter in a 1:1 ratio, especially in savory dishes. It has a more pronounced sesame flavor and is slightly more bitter.
Is cashew butter healthier than other nut butters?
Cashew butter is lower in protein than peanut butter but higher in healthy monounsaturated fats. It's a good source of magnesium, copper, and zinc.
Can I make cashew butter at home?
Yes, you can make cashew butter by blending raw cashews in a food processor until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and a small amount of oil if needed for consistency.
Tips for substituting cashew butter
5 tips- Cashew butter is naturally sweet and mild, making it good for both sweet and savory applications
- For baking, cashew butter adds moisture and richness to cookies, cakes, and energy balls
- In savory dishes, cashew butter creates creamy sauces and dressings without overpowering other flavors
- Cashew butter works well in both hot and cold applications, making it versatile for many recipes
- For a smoother texture, warm cashew butter slightly before using in recipes