15 Best Sugar-Free Peanut Butter to Keep In Your Pantry
Among the many pantry essentials, peanut butter should be at the top of that list.
Packed with fiber, protein, and monounsaturated fats, peanut butter is a great addition to sandwiches, recipes, and fruit.
However, popular peanut butter brands are often filled with additives and preservatives, added sugars, and trans fat - an unhealthy spread that research has associated with various health conditions such as heart disease.
Making the switch to sugar-free peanut butter can be a healthier alternative.
This article covers what makes sugar-free peanut butter healthy and provides our favorite options.
What Makes a Healthy Peanut Butter?
A general rule of thumb for picking a healthy peanut butter is to look for brands with the fewest ingredients (or ingredients sourced naturally). Peanut butter is relatively unprocessed and only requires a single ingredient – peanuts.
They’re roasted and ground into a paste to produce the final product.
Less healthy products usually contain added sugar, and hydrogenated vegetable oils, tacking on extra calories and adverse health effects.
Source: National Library of Medicine
What are the Benefits of a Sugar-Free Peanut Butter?
Sugar-free peanut butter offers many benefits beyond being the perfect spread for a PB&J sandwich.
Good source of healthy fats
Sugar-free peanut butter is particularly rich in heart-healthy fats since half of the fats are oleic acid, a healthy form of monounsaturated fat.
Oleic acid tends to promote several health benefits, including improved insulin sensitivity.
Source - National Library of Medicine
It also has some essential omega-6 fatty acid, which is associated with many positive health benefits such as:
- Improved brain function
- Better skin health
- Enhanced inflammatory response
Nutrient-dense
Peanut butter is packed with nutrients containing a variety of nutrients like Vitamin E, B3, B5, B6, Folate, Magnesium, Copper, and Manganese.
It’s also high in biotin and contains a fair amount of iron, zinc, selenium, and potassium.
Great Protein Source
Peanut butter is a balanced energy source that contains about 22.5 grams of protein per serving, a lot compared to other plant foods. It contains all the essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein that the body can’t produce independently.
Since peanut butter is a plant-based food, it’s a convenient protein source for vegans.
Better manage blood sugar levels
Big-named peanut brands are notorious for adding sugars such as corn syrup or cane sugar to enhance the flavor. But this leads to a higher glycemic index, quickly raising blood sugar levels.
Without the added sugars, sugar-free peanut butter has a lower glycemic index causing a slower increase in blood sugar levels and preventing spikes in energy.
How to Choose Sugar-Free Peanut Butter
While many brands may label their jar as “sugar-free” or “natural,” that doesn’t mean you should immediately add it to your shopping cart.
Sugar content
Peanut butter naturally has one to two grams of sugar, even if it’s not listed on the nutrition label. However, it’s the added sugar you want to watch out for. Added sugars like corn syrup, maltodextrin, and molasses are empty calories detrimental to your health.
However, if you want added sweeteners, look for brands that add an ingredient to naturally sweeten the product, such as dates, coconut, nut butter blends, or even sugar-free maple syrup. The date is a popular choice for sugar-free peanut butter. They’re blended into a paste and mixed with the peanuts to add a touch of sweetness while providing a smoother texture.
No Added Oils
Oils, whether it’s partially or fully hydrogenated, shouldn’t be in your peanut butter. These oils are usually added to prevent separation and added to extend shelf-life. However, they can have negative health-related consequences, especially on triglyceride levels and blood cholesterol, which increases the risk of heart disease.
Oils, even if considered healthy oils, are calorie-dense. This contributes to overall calorie content, which can be a concern for those trying to lose weight.
Source: Medical News Today
Short ingredient list
When buying healthier peanut butter brands, make sure to check their ingredient list first. Generally, the fewer ingredients there are, the better. When possible, opt for products that contain only peanuts and light salt – that’s it.
If you prefer a peanut butter spread with no-stir and a longer shelf life, try one that is sustainably sourced with palm oil.
If you prefer a sweeter-tasting peanut butter, look for naturally flavored options like honey, maple syrup or even artificial sweeteners.
No emulsifiers
Emulsifiers are usually used in peanut butter products to prevent separation and provide a thicker texture and body. However, research has shown that emulsifiers can negatively impact the microbiome and cause low-grade inflammation in the gut.
Source: National Institute of Health
Packaging
When picking a natural peanut butter, consider when, how often, and how you use peanut butter.
If peanut butter is a household staple, you may consider purchasing jars in bulk, which are less expensive per ounce. However, if you frequently travel or want to eat peanut butter as an office snack, a squeeze pack may be a better choice.
Nut Butter vs. Peanut Butter Spread
You may be confused as to why some brands call themselves “peanut butter spreads” while others say “nutter butter.” The FDA classifies peanut butter as the main ingredient, while other spreads generally contain under 90% peanuts.
Statistic Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Here are the most common nut butter you’ll find:
- Peanut butter: Peanut butter is the highest in protein and is the most affordable. It contains 18 milligrams of calcium and 3 grams of fiber. Beyond the standard PB&J, you can use it in baking or pair it with your favorite fruits.
- Almond butter: Almond butter contains 200 calories and about 19 grams of fat per serving (most of which are heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.) Try it on oatmeal or use it as a base for cookies, cakes, and muffins.
- Walnut butter: Walnut butter has the highest concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. This nutrient helps to regulate cholesterol levels and decrease inflammation.
- Cashew butter: Cashew butter can serve as a milk or cream substitute as it’s the creamiest nutter butter. It’s high in protein at 9 grams, along with 17 grams of fat and 3 grams of fiber. Try adding it to your chicken and broccoli or stirring it into noodle dishes for a savory flavor.
- Sunflower seed butter: If you’re allergic to peanuts, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative. It has the highest vitamin E content while offering a similar nutrient profile as other nutter butter. Drizzle it on top of your waffles or pancakes, or add it to your smoothies.
Now that you know the differences, you’ll be an expert next time you shop for nut butter.
Our Picks - Best Sugar Free Peanut Butter
With those criteria in mind, we’ve scoured the internet and tested the best sugar-free peanut butter on the market.
We’ll share our best picks and explain why we like each brand.
1. Living Ratio Butters - Best Sugar-Free Peanut Butter on the Market
Living Ratio is the best place to find organic nut butter options ranging from coconut butter and strawberry coconut butter to cherry almond butter filling. Crafted from top-notch organic raw coconuts, this tasty spread is made using a gentle stone-grinding process at low temperatures, ensuring the nutrients and flavors are beautifully preserved.
One of the standout features is its incredibly creamy consistency. There’s absolutely no grit to be found, which makes each spoonful a delightful and smooth experience.
This coconut butter is a powerhouse of nutrition. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it serves as a highly nutritious functional food. With only 110 calories, it’s great for those wanting to add nut butter into their foods without tacking on too many calories.
If you want sweeter options, we recommend the strawberry coconut butter or cherry almond butter filling, which uses natural ingredients like stevia (a plant-based sweetener) and dried cherries.
All nut butter is versatile enough to spread onto your favorite pastry or drizzle on your favorite dessert, or even mix into milk!
2. Jif No Added Sugar Creamy Peanut Butter Spread - The Most Versatile Peanut Butter
Consider the Jif No Added Sugar Creamy Peanut Butter Spread a natural take on big-branded peanut butter. It’s the ideal treat for peanut butter enthusiasts mindful of sugar intake.
This package comes in two options, the 33.5 ounces and the 15.5oz. Made with just three simple ingredients and free from added sugars, this creamy spread is a convenient and quick snack option that spreads effortlessly without stirring.
This Jif spread allows you to relish that same incredible beloved flavor, bringing back the child’s nostalgia without guilt.
Also, it’s gluten-free and kosher-certified, ensuring a safe choice for those with specific dietary requirements. Enhance your smoothies, toasts, and sandwiches by incorporating this product, or even use it as a dip for fruits and vegetables.
3. Keto Made Simple No Sugar Peanut Butter Cups - Best Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cups
Peanut butter cups have traditionally been a relatively unhealthy snack filled with added preservatives, sugars, and oils.
Fortunately, the No Sugar Company produced its own healthier rendition, the No Sugar Keto Cups.
With only 70 calories for each cup, you can enjoy a healthier peanut butter snack without guilt. The heavenly dark chocolate peanut butter dream flavor is guaranteed to gratify your sweet cravings, completely free from added sugar or artificial additives.
Within the velvety center of these melt-in-your-mouth delicacies, you’ll discover the goodness of coconut oil MCTs—a source of beneficial fats—and a remarkable 4g of fiber.
With only 1g of net carbs and 0g of sugar per serving, these low-carb keto peanut butter cups are perfect for keto dieters.
Reducing your sugar intake can elevate your energy levels, manage weight effectively, and progress towards a healthier lifestyle.
4. ALOHA Organic Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Plant Based Protein Bars - Best Sugar-Free Peanut-Butter Protein Bars
Peanut butter doesn't have to be just spread. If you’re a fan of the nutty flavor profile and the rich, creamy texture of peanut butter, you may enjoy a healthier snack form like a protein bar.
The ALOHA brand offers a pack of 12 peanut butter chocolate chip protein bars, made with only whole food ingredients, including organic pumpkin seed and organic brown rice protein. With an impressive 14 grams of protein per bar, they serve as an excellent protein source for vegetarians, vegans, and individuals following a paleo-friendly diet.
Beyond protein, these bars provide a substantial 10 grams of fiber, making them a wholesome choice for snacking, meal replacement, or a quick on-the-go breakfast.
Also, they’re gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, ensuring suitability for those with specific dietary restrictions.
ALOHA holds the distinction of being a Certified B-Corp, demonstrating its commitment to producing exceptional products and caring for their people and the planet. These bars offer an incredibly delicious taste, making them the perfect fueling option before or after workouts or exercise sessions.
5. Crazy Richard’s Peanut Butter - Best Variety of Peanut Butter Products
Crazy Richard’s Crunchy Peanut Butter is crafted using only dry-roasted peanuts grown in the United States. In fact, it only has one ingredient!
What makes this unique is that it’s sugar, salt, and oil-free, non-GMO, vegan, and free of cholesterol and BPA. Each natural nut butter jar is filled with 540 types of raw peanuts, all naturally grown and processed.
Their product tends to have a more fluid texture, making it perfect for drizzling over yogurt or oatmeal.
If you prefer a thicker texture, you can store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
6. PB2 All Natural Peanut Powder - Best Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Powder
If you’ve ever wanted to infuse your smoothie or oatmeal with a peanut flavor and a protein boost, powdered peanut butter like PB2 is the perfect choice. Sugar-free peanut butter powder is a fantastic alternative that contributes to the protein found in peanuts, offering fewer calories and less fat.
All you need to do is blend two tablespoons of this non-GMO powder with one tablespoon of water to create a spread or incorporate it into smoothies and baked goods to fulfill your peanut butter cravings.
Compared to traditional peanut butter, it contains a staggering 90 percent less fat and approximately 70 percent fewer calories.
The process involves pressing freshly roasted peanuts to extract most of the oil, and a small amount of salt and sugar is added for flavor.
Since this peanut butter is low-fat, it may not be as filling when consumed alone. Therefore, it is best to combine it with other sources of healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, avocado, or full-fat yogurt, when mixing it into smoothies or oatmeal.
7. Santa Cruz Crunchy Light Roasted Peanut Butter - Best Light Roasted Spread
If you’re searching for satisfying organic peanut butter with basic ingredients, try the Santa Cruz Organic Light Roasted Creamy Peanut Butter. It’s free from added sugar, artificial ingredients, and hydrogenated oils, containing only organic roasted peanuts and a dash of salt.
Like most peanut butter without added oils, it requires stirring to incorporate the natural oils, which separate in the jar.
Also, Santa Cruz produces other variations, such as creamy dark roast.
8. Peanut Butter & Co. Simply Crunchy Peanut Butter Spread - Best Crunchy Spread
Peanut Butter & Co.’s “Old Fashioned Crunchy” variety is an excellent alternative to other commercial brands, catering to peanut butter enthusiasts who want more crunchy texture in their spread.
Many individuals lean towards crunchy peanut butter instead of the more common smooth or creamy varieties. The added texture of crunchy peanut butter enhances the eating experience, making it a preferred spread.
Each serving packs a substantial eight grams of plant protein, making it a fantastic choice for P&J sandwiches, breakfast meals, snacks, and pairing with salted crackers.
By opting for the right peanut butter, you can elevate your meals with both flavor and texture without concerns about trans fats, excessive salt, or added sugar.
This peanut butter avoids using high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which can be harmful to people with various forms of diabetes.
Also, this product is certified organic, guaranteeing that it meets rigorous standards of organic farming practices. Additionally, it holds the Non-GMO Project Verified seal, ensuring that it is free from genetically modified organisms.
Many customers have appreciated how the product is free from artificial additives that can trigger allergies and adverse reactions. Fortunately, this peanut butter contains only peanuts and salt, omitting unnecessary additives.
9. Once Again Nutt Butter Collective Organic Creamy Peanut Butter - Best Organic Option
Once Again Creamy Peanut Butter is one of our favorites because it’s made with only USDA organic dry roasted peanuts, so you don’t have to worry about those unhealthy added oils or other additives.
While it requires stirring, it spreads easily once the natural oils are mixed. Stirring the product when opening it is recommended, and then putting it in a refrigerator to reduce continued separation.
However, depending on your preference, Once Again offers a no-stir variety containing palm oil and sweetened and salt-added options.
If peanut butter is a staple in your diet, they sell a 16oz bottle in singles, packs of 2, or cases of 12, saving you about 15% if you buy bulk.
Also, we love that Once Again is committed to sustainability from their sourcing to packaging through their Honest in Trade program.
10. MaraNatha Organic Peanut Butter - Best Texture Sugar-Free Peanut Butter
If you’re searching for salt-free unsweetened peanut butter that doesn’t require stirring, consider Maranatha Creamy Peanut Butter. It’s non-GMO and USDA organic, made with palm oil and dry roasted peanuts. Its velvety, smooth texture makes it the perfect choice for spreading.
While the low sodium content is appealing, its impeccably smooth texture is what sets it apart. This exceptional quality is achieved through a distinctive double-grind process, eliminating the need for additional oils.
The brand also focuses on sustainable initiatives, using recyclable glass jars and only sourcing nuts from environmentally sensitive growers.
11. Justin’s Classic Peanut Butter - Most Diet-Friendly Peanut Butter
Justin’s Classic Peanut Butter is an excellent choice to enhance your weight loss diet. It’s devoid of added sugars and is gluten-free.
With just two ingredients, it maintains a clean and satisfying taste while requiring minimal time for snack preparation.
Like other nut butter, Justin’s is rich in healthy fats, offers moderate protein content, and contains relatively low carbs, making it a perfect complement to your meals. With 7 grams of protein, you receive a relatively high-protein content helping you feel satiated, which is conducive to dieting.
This versatile peanut butter can be seamlessly incorporated into various recipes, such as peanut butter cookies or coconut flour bread.
12. Justin’s Peanut Butter Squeeze Packs - Best Single-Serve Peanut Butter Packet
When you’re on the go, enjoying peanut butter can sometimes be challenging. Jars are difficult to pack and tend to create a mess.
Thankfully, single-serve packets provide a convenient solution, allowing you to savor your beloved peanut butter anytime and anywhere.
Justin’s offers their Classic Peanut Butter in individual squeeze packs, making it incredibly easy to enjoy. All you need to do is tear open the side slit and squeeze the nut butter onto your favorite fruit, cracker, or even directly into your mouth.
Each 1.15-ounce packet contains Justin’s delightful gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO Project Verified nut butter.
For those who prefer a sweeter nut butter, Justin’s also offers squeeze packs with six other flavors, including Honey Peanut Butter, and almond butter. These single-serve packs provide a convenient and portable way to enjoy your favorite nut butter without hassle.
13. Big Spoon Roasters Crunchy Peanut Butter - Best Sweetened No-Sugar Peanut Butter
The crunch peanut butter from Big Spoon Roasters is one of our personal favorites. Sweetened with sorghum syrup and featuring a subtle saltiness, this peanut butter combines two peanut varieties to deliver a satisfying crunch and serves as an excellent toast topping.
In particular, sorghum syrup imparts a unique flavor profile to the peanut butter spread, with hints of caramel and molasses. This adds depth and complexity to the overall taste, enhancing the sensory experience of enjoying the spread.
It boasts a high-quality and delicious taste, free from fillers, preservatives, and GMO ingredients.
14. Teddie's All Natural Smooth Peanut Butter - Best Peanut Butter for Keto Dieters
Teddie is an exceptional all-natural peanut butter that takes great pride in being made in the USA, exclusively using peanuts grown within the country.
This peanut butter is non-GMO and free from preservatives and sugar. With just one ingredient, natural 100% peanuts, it embodies simplicity and purity.
You’ll quickly notice it’s quite chunky and has a smooth crunch and texture to mimic the natural thickness of standard peanut butter.
Since it has no solidifying oils, we recommend storing it in the fridge upside down. This helps the butter to solidify naturally and makes it easier to store.
Containing 16 grams of fat and 8 grams of carbs, it’s the perfect fat source and low-carb option for keto dieters.
15. RX Nut Butter Chocolate Peanut Butter - Most Nutritious Peanut Butter
For those looking for peanut butter with a delightful twist of flavor, the RX Chocolate Peanut Butter is a definite must-try.
Although it uses extra ingredients, rest assured that they’re wholesome and include egg whites, dates, coconut oil, chocolate, natural flavors, and salt. Unlike many flavored peanut butter that contain numerous additives and artificial ingredients, RX focuses on organic ingredients.
The inclusion of dates contributes a touch of sweetness, which, when combined with chocolate, creates a balanced and satisfying taste.
Consider spreading this blend on a slice of toast and pairing it with bananas and strawberries to give your classic PB&J sandwich a nice twist.
Add One of These Sugar-Free Peanut Butter to Your Diet!
Some peanut butter spreads are healthier than others.
Look for sugar-free peanut butter with minimal ingredients, ideally only peanuts and salt. Avoid products that are heavy in calories or hydrogenated vegetable oils.
Be sure to review the nutrition label and ingredient list on the peanut butter jar to ensure it fits your needs.
Since peanut butter can be addicting, make sure to eat it in moderation as part of your balanced diet filled with other nutritious whole foods.
That said, Living Ratio offers some of the best butter options.
Our manufacturing process involves stone-grinding ingredients at freezing temperatures to preserve nutrients and flavors. Only natural and organic ingredients are used, so you can enjoy sweet and fruity flavors without worrying about adverse health effects.
Give Living Ratio butters a try today!
--Featured Image Credit: pexels.com / @roman-odintsov