In the ever-evolving world of nut butters, almond, peanut and cashew have long held the spotlight. But recently, walnut butter has been making waves, emerging as the new darling of the nut butter world. With its rich, slightly bitter flavor profile and impressive nutritional benefits, walnut butter is not just a passing trend—it’s carving out its place in the pantry of health-conscious consumers, foodies and product developers.
So, what’s fueling the rise of walnut butter? Let’s dive into the reasons behind this growing trend, how it’s being used, and what makes it stand out in a crowded nut butter market.
Why Walnut Butter?
- Better-For-You Attributes
When transformed into walnut butter, nutritional benefits become even more accessible. One ounce of walnuts offers 18 grams of total fat, 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat and 13 grams of polyunsaturated fat including 2.5 grams of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) — the plant-based omega-3. They’re also a good source of magnesium at 10% of the daily value. In a world where people are increasingly conscious of what they eat, walnut butter offers a unique way to enhance a diet with a nutrient-dense spread. - Plant-Based and Vegan-Friendly
With the rise of plant-based diets, walnut butter fits right into the trend. It’s vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an excellent alternative for those who have dietary restrictions or preferences.
Rich Flavor with a Subtle Twist
One of the most appealing aspects of walnut butter is its flavor profile. Walnut butter has an earthy, slightly bitter flavor with deep, nutty undertones. This makes it a great option for formulas where you want a more complex taste. It’s often described as being less sweet but more savory and full-bodied, giving it a versatility that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
How Is Walnut Butter Being Used?
The versatility of walnut butter is one of the main reasons it’s gaining traction on supermarket shelves. Darren Seifer, food and beverage analyst for NPD, told Supermarket News that when we hear about nut butter products, it provides a new flavor profile, but one still understood by the consumers. “It brings news to the category, to the product, but it’s rooted in what’s familiar for customers.” As demand for walnut butter grows, several brands are making a name for themselves in this niche market.
Apple Cinnamon Walnut Nut Butter Bites, Abby’s Better
Abby’s Better incorporated walnut butter into these vegan, gluten-free, plant-based bites. The creamy texture holds ingredients—walnuts, dates, freeze dried apples, pink Himalayan salt, rice flour and cinnamon—into delicious apple pie-worthy snack bites.
Banana Walnut Nut Butter Bites, Simple Truth/Kroger
Private label is hot, and so is walnut butter spun into a power packed snack made with dates, freeze dried bananas and pumpkin spice, which give a nod to nostalgic walnut-friendly banana bread.
Mixed Nut Butter Puffs, Mission Mighty Me
Simple, all-natural, non-GMO ingredients, including walnut flour, for babies starting with solids and up, these quick-dissolve nut butter puffs can be softened with water, breast milk or formula, crumbled in purées or eaten on-the-go.
Black Sesame Walnut Butter, Valley Walnut
Consumers will enjoy a unique combination of Asian culture with a modern twist. The nutty, earthy flavor of roasted walnuts is balanced with the boldness of black sesame for a rich, creamy spread. This small batch, stone ground walnut butter is great on toast or as a mix into baked good formulas.
Carrot Cake Almond & Walnut Butter, Big Spoon Roasters
English walnuts, organic maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and Jacobsen sea salt are handcrafted into small batches of nut butter. Big Spoon is dedicated to authentic quality and sustainability, with each ingredient sourced based on strict standards for taste, ethical treatment and transparency.
As consumers become more adventurous in their culinary choices and more mindful of what they’re putting into their bodies, walnut butter is likely to continue rising in popularity. Ready to formulate with walnuts? Check out our blog or contact DMikolajcik@walnuts.org for tips.
Products mentioned for informational purposes only, and inclusion does not imply an endorsement.
