Peanut butter: properties, uses, recipes and how to choose it
The peanut butter is a spread made from roasted, ground peanuts. It can be smooth, crunchy, 100% natural or enriched with cocoa, coconut or other ingredients. It is widely used for breakfast, snacks, smoothies, desserts and some savoury recipes.
This guide helps you choose good peanut butter, read its label, use it in the kitchen and buy the variants available online at Sicilus.
At a glance: good peanut butter should have a simple ingredient list, ideally based on roasted peanuts with few other ingredients. It is high in energy and calories, so use sensible portions as part of a varied diet.
Want to try it? Discover Spalme Natural Peanut Butter 100% or the Spalme Creamy.
What is peanut butter?
Peanut butter is made by grinding roasted peanuts into a more or less smooth spread. The simplest versions contain only peanuts, while other recipes may include salt, cocoa, coconut, sweeteners or added protein.
It is also commonly called peanut spread. The main difference is in the ingredients rather than the name: always read the label to make a good choice.
How to choose good peanut butter
Check a few practical points before buying.
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | A short, clear list is preferable. |
| Texture | Creamy for spreading; crunchy if you like peanut pieces. |
| Flavour | Natural, with cocoa or coconut, or lightly salted. |
| Use | Breakfast, snacks, smoothies, desserts and savoury sauces. |
Smooth or crunchy peanut butter?
The smooth version is easier to spread on bread, pancakes, rusks or fruit. Crunchy peanut butter contains peanut pieces and has a more rustic texture, suitable if you prefer more bite.
Sicilus offers both creamy and crunchy variants, so you can choose according to how you want to use them.
Prefer a smooth texture?
Spalme Creamy Peanut Butter is designed for breakfast, snacks, smoothies and sweet recipes.
How to use peanut butter
Peanut butter is versatile and can be used in many ways:
- for breakfast: on toast, pancakes, rusks or porridge;
- with fruit: especially bananas, apples or pears;
- in smoothies: to add creaminess and flavour;
- in desserts: biscuits, bars, brownies or creams;
- in savoury recipes: sauces for chicken, vegetables, noodles or dishes inspired by Asian cooking.
As it is a dense, energy-rich food, measure portions carefully and use it as part of a recipe rather than as an unplanned addition at the end of a meal.
Peanut butter and nutrition: what to know
Peanut butter contains significant amounts of fat, plant protein and calories. It can be part of a varied diet, but it is not a miracle food and does not replace a balanced nutrition plan.
If you have specific needs relating to cholesterol, blood glucose, diabetes, pregnancy, liver conditions or other medical issues, seek advice from a doctor or dietitian. This guide discusses general food use rather than personalised medical advice.
Where to buy peanut butter online at Sicilus
Sicilus offers several Spalme peanut butter variants for breakfast, snacks and recipes.
- Spalme Natural Peanut Butter 100%: simple and versatile.
- Spalme Creamy Peanut Butter: smooth and easy to spread.
- Spalme Crunchy Peanut Butter: with a more rustic texture.
- Spalme Natural Crunchy Peanut Butter: for a natural version with peanut pieces.
Delicious alternatives: pistachio, sweets and Sicilian gift boxes
For a spread more closely linked to Sicilian tradition, you can also try pistachio spread. It is sweeter and more suited to desserts, perfect for special breakfasts, fillings and small food gifts.
For a taste closer to the Sicilus range, also explore Sicilian Sweets and Sicilian Tasting Boxes and Bundles.
Frequently asked questions about peanut butter
Is peanut butter good for you?
It can be part of a varied diet, but portions should be sensible because it is high in calories. Ingredient quality and the overall diet matter.
Does peanut butter cause weight gain?
No food causes weight gain on its own: overall dietary balance matters. Peanut butter is energy-rich, so avoid excessive portions.
Is smooth or crunchy peanut butter better?
It depends on how you use it. Smooth peanut butter is easier to spread and mix; crunchy peanut butter is more interesting if you enjoy a rustic texture.
What is the difference between peanut butter and peanut spread?
The terms are often used interchangeably. The real differences are in the ingredient list and texture.
Where can I buy peanut butter online?
Sicilus offers several Spalme peanut butter variants, including natural, creamy and crunchy versions.
