Homemade Jif Extra Crunchy Peanut Butter Twin Pack 80 Ounce Recipe: A Healthier, Crunchier Alternative

Category: Spread

Introduction

Jif Extra Crunchy Peanut Butter has been a pantry staple for decades, beloved for its creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and, of course, its signature crunch. Since its introduction in 1958, Jif has become synonymous with quality and taste, making it a favorite for sandwiches, baking, and snacking. However, many of us wish for a version that’s a bit healthier, with fewer additives and more control over the ingredients. That’s where this homemade recipe comes in—a delicious, customizable alternative that captures the essence of Jif Extra Crunchy but with a healthier twist.

Why Make It at Home?

Making peanut butter at home offers several advantages. You can reduce the amount of added sugar, use higher-quality peanuts, and avoid hydrogenated oils. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and allows you to customize the level of crunch to your liking. This recipe also avoids stabilizers like hydrogenated vegetable oil, making it a cleaner, more natural option.

Personal Anecdote

I remember growing up with Jif peanut butter in my lunchbox every day. It was a constant comfort, but as I got older, I started paying more attention to the ingredients list. I decided to try making my own version at home, and the result was nothing short of amazing. Not only did it taste fresher, but I could also adjust the sweetness and crunch to my liking. It’s been a game-changer for my family’s snacks and recipes.

Recipe Details

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes

Yield:

80 ounces (about 5 jars of 16 ounces each)

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Base:

• 4 cups (480g) raw peanuts
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup (60g) peanut oil or coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp (3g) salt

For the Crunchy Add-In:

• 1 cup (120g) roasted peanuts, chopped into small pieces

Instructions

• Roast the Peanuts:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Spread the raw peanuts on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool slightly.

• Grind the Peanuts:

• Transfer the roasted peanuts to a food processor or high-speed blender.

  • Process for 2-3 minutes until the peanuts break down into a smooth paste. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed.

• Add Sugar and Salt:

• With the processor running, gradually add the sugar and salt. Continue processing for another 2 minutes until well combined.

• Add Oil:

• Slowly pour in the peanut oil while the processor is running. This will help emulsify the peanut butter and give it a smooth consistency.

• Add the Crunch:

• Stir in the chopped peanuts for a chunky texture. If you prefer a slightly crunchier texture, pulse the mixture a few times until the peanuts are evenly distributed but still retain some crunch.

• Taste and Adjust:

• If the peanut butter is too thick, add a little more oil. If it’s too runny, add a bit more peanuts. Adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your taste.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup or even less, depending on your preference.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Honey Roasted Version: Use honey instead of sugar and add a drizzle of honey at the end for extra flavor.
• Smoky Version: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky twist.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Peanuts: Freshness affects the flavor. If your peanuts are stale, the peanut butter won’t taste as good.
• Temperature Control: If the peanut butter becomes too thick after cooling, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few hours to soften.
• Custom Crunch: Adjust the size of the chopped peanuts for the crunch factor. Finely chopped for a subtle crunch or coarsely chopped for a more pronounced texture.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use natural peanut butter as a base?
  Yes! Natural peanut butter can be used, but you’ll need to stir well and possibly add a bit more oil to achieve the right consistency.

• What if I don’t have a food processor?
  You can use a high-speed blender or even a hand mixer, though a food processor works best for smooth results.

• How long does it last?
  Homemade peanut butter typically lasts 3-6 months in the fridge. It may separate, so just stir before use.

• Can I make it chunkier?
  Absolutely! Add more chopped peanuts or even some sea salt for extra texture.

• Is this recipe vegan?
  Yes, as long as you use vegan-friendly sugar and oil options.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic PB&J: Spread on bread with your favorite jelly for a timeless snack.
• Asian-Style Noodles: Whip up a sauce with soy sauce, ginger, and honey for a tasty noodle dish.
• Protein Smoothie: Add a spoonful to your smoothie for a creamy, protein-packed boost.
• Baked Goods: Use in place of store-bought peanut butter for cookies, bars, and cakes.

Conclusion

This homemade Jif Extra Crunchy Peanut Butter recipe offers the best of both worlds: the convenience of store-bought with the benefits of homemade. By controlling the ingredients and the crunch level, you can enjoy a healthier, tastier version of a classic favorite. Give it a try and see why homemade peanut butter is a game-changer for snacks, cooking, and everything in between!