I can’t trust anybody who claims they “dislike” peanut butter (aside from those unfortunate souls who are allergic). Peanut butter is more than just a spread, its a food staple — the nectar of the gods. If it were up to me, I would add a base to the food pyramid solely dedicated to the creamy liquid gold.
So, being the peanut butter aficionado that I am, I was very skeptical when I found out about this new healthier alternative: powdered peanut butter.
Photo by Kevin Kozlik
What is powdered peanut butter in the first place? It’s exactly what it sounds like, though it should really be called “powdered peanuts.” Roasted peanuts are pressed until about 85% of the fat is removed, resulting in a powdery peanut substance.
From a nutritional standpoint, powdered peanut butter offers similar protein and carbohydrate content as regular peanut butter does (per two tablespoon serving), however it contains much less fat, and in turn, far less calories.
Directions from PB2, the leading brand in powdered peanut butter, instruct to mix a tablespoon of water with two tablespoons of their product to obtain a delicious, low-fat substitute of the best invention since the wheel: peanut butter.
I’ve followed these guidelines with the lowest of expectations and unsurprisingly, I wasn’t pleased at all — nothing can ever come close to the distinct taste of creamy, fatty, and, well, buttery peanut butter.
Despite its failed attempt at replacing the real thing, powdered peanut butter does have its place in the pantry. Its true value is not in peanut butter at all — it’s in the ability to convert nearly any ordinary food into a peanut-butter-flavored masterpiece, like turning water into wine.
Here are some of my favorite ways to use powdered peanut butter.
Cooking and Baking
Photo by Kevin Kozlik
The most obvious application, yet by far the most versatile, is using PB2 as an ingredient — the possibilities are literally endless. Simply add PB2 to any recipe, upgrading ordinary food from bland to peanuty goodness in every bite. Potential foods include, but are not limited to: pancakes, brownies, cookies, waffles, muffins, breads, cakes and even sauces.
#SpoonTip: If a recipe already calls for peanut butter, replace with PB2 for a lower-fat version — I find that the powdered peanut butter can provide a stronger, more evenly distributed peanut butter taste to recipes as opposed to traditional peanut butter.
Oatmeal
Photo by Kevin Kozlik
Do you ever have trouble falling asleep because you’re so anxious to wake up the next morning just to eat breakfast? This is how I feel when I know there’s peanut butter oatmeal in my fridge, calling my name.
Throw some oats in your liquid of choice (milk, nut milk, water), add about three tablespoons of PB2 per cup of oats and let the mixture soak overnight in the fridge.
Wake up, smell the coffee, and enjoy your oatmeal while it’s cold and refreshing (my personal favorite) or heat it up in the microwave for a warm, hearty bowl.
Yogurt
Yogurt, greek yogurt and cottage cheese are all acceptable forms of dairy that can be amped up with PB2. The powder mixes in flawlessly and creates a custard-like treat that doubles a healthy snack for anytime of the day.
#SpoonTip: Add sweetener or sugar to satisfy that sweet tooth for dessert and that craving for peanut butter. It makes a great late-night snack before bed.
Shakes
Photo by Kevin Kozlik
Who doesn’t love shakes? They’re easy to make and are perfect for a quick breakfast, delectable dessert, simple snack, or a nutritious post-workout meal. Now imagine that chocolate, vanilla, banana or strawberry shake with peanut butter flavor. Need I say more?
Spread
This one is a little unique, and you’re probably thinking, “why not just use real peanut butter?” I’d tell you why, but its much easier if you experience it for yourself — take your typical cream cheese, mash in some PB2, smear it over your baked good of choice and indulge in your new favorite peanut-flavored spread.
Here, I’ve only scratched the surface of the possible ways to put powdered peanut butter to use. What can you come up with?