Peanut butter is a go-to ingredient for most of us. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, we love adding a dollop of peanut butter to our meals. But, have you ever wondered how many calories are in 1/2 cup of peanut butter? Well, you don’t have to worry anymore because we have all the details for you.
In this blog post, we will take a look at the calories in 1/2 cup peanut butter and show you how to make two delicious recipes using this ingredient. So, let’s get started!
Calories in 1/2 Cup Peanut Butter
1/2 cup of peanut butter contains approximately 760 calories. It also has 67 grams of fat, 30 grams of protein, and 24 grams of carbohydrates. While this may seem like a lot, peanut butter is a good source of healthy fats and protein, making it a great addition to your diet in moderation.
Recipe 1: Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1 banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup ice
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
- Serving size: 1 smoothie
- Calories: 557
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 41g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
Cooking Time:
5 minutes
Equipment:
- Blender
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for added flavor.
Variations:
Use chocolate almond milk instead of regular almond milk for a chocolatey twist.
Substitutions:
You can use any type of milk in this recipe, such as cow’s milk or soy milk.
Storage:
This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately, but you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Tips:
If you prefer a thinner smoothie, add more almond milk.
Notes:
This smoothie is a great way to start your day with a healthy dose of protein and healthy fats.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work great in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the amount of ice accordingly.
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can use any type of milk in this recipe.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes, any nut butter will work in this recipe.
Recipe 2: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Stir in the rolled oats.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information:
- Serving size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 161
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Cookie scoop
- Wire rack
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy with a glass of cold milk.
Variations:
Add chocolate chips or raisins to the dough for added flavor.
Substitutions:
You can use any type of nut butter in this recipe.
Storage:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips:
Make sure to cream the butter and sugars together thoroughly for the best texture.
Notes:
These cookies are the perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet but still want to keep it healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats will work in this recipe.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine will work in this recipe.
Can I use a gluten-free flour?
Yes, any gluten-free flour will work in this recipe.
Wrap Up
Whether you’re in the mood for a healthy smoothie or a sweet treat, peanut butter is a versatile ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to any recipe. We hope you enjoyed these two recipes and that you give them a try for yourself. Let us know what you think in the comments below!