When can babies eat Peanut Butter?

From 6 months

Start with: Liquid / Thinned drizzle.

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is an energy-dense food providing high-quality plant protein, healthy monounsaturated fats, and Vitamin E. While it is highly nutritious, it is also a common allergen. Modern pediatric guidelines suggest early introduction (around 6 months) to help reduce the risk of developing a lifelong peanut allergy. It must always be served thinned down for safety.

How to serve Peanut Butter, by age

  1. 6mo

    From 6 months: Liquid / Thinned drizzle.

    NEVER serve thick peanut butter or on a spoon. Thin 1-2 teaspoons of smooth peanut butter with warm water, breast milk, or formula until it is a liquid, 'drizzle' consistency. Stir this into baby's cereal or puree. Use only 'Creamy' and 'Unsweetened' varieties. Monitor closely for any allergic reaction during the first few exposures.

  2. 9mo

    From 9 months: Very thin spread.

    Spread a very thin, translucent layer of smooth peanut butter onto a soft strip of toast or a teething wafer. You can also whisk peanut butter into full-fat Greek yogurt. Ensure there are no large globs, as these can stick to the roof of the mouth and cause choking. Avoid 'Crunchy' peanut butter until at least age 4.

  3. 12mo

    From 12 months: Creamy spread.

    Toddlers can enjoy peanut butter spread on fruit slices (like thin apple or banana) or mixed into oatmeal. While they are better at chewing, peanut butter remains a sticky hazard. Always encourage the child to take a sip of water between bites of peanut butter-coated foods to help clear the palate.

Choking risk & safe preparation

High choking risk

Peanut butter is a major choking risk because its thick, sticky texture can form a 'plug' in a baby's airway that is very difficult to clear. Never serve it plain, thick, or in chunks. Always thin it with liquid or spread it so thinly that the bread is still visible through it. Whole peanuts and 'crunchy' bits are strictly avoided until age 4+.

Allergen information

This is one of the common childhood allergens. Introduce it on its own and watch for a reaction before mixing it with new foods.

Contains or relates to these allergens:

  • Peanut

Nutrition & benefits

An incredible source of Vitamin E (9mg), a powerful antioxidant that protects cell membranes. It is also packed with Magnesium (154mg) and Potassium (649mg), supporting heart health and muscle function. Its high healthy-fat content is vital for infant brain insulation (myelin).

  • Brain Food
  • Heart Health

Per 100 g

Energy
598kcal
Protein
22.2g
Fat
51.4g
Fiber
5g
Iron
1.7mg
Vitamin C
0mg
See all nutrients (25)

Macronutrients

Energy
598 kcal
Protein
22.2 g
Carbohydrates
22.3 g
Fat
51.4 g

Key Minerals

Iron
1.7 mg
Calcium
49 mg
Zinc
2.5 mg
Sodium
17 mg
Potassium
558 mg
Magnesium
168 mg
Phosphorus
335 mg
Selenium
4.1 mcg
Copper
0.4 mg
Manganese
1.7 mg

Vitamins

Vitamin A
0 mcg
Vitamin C
0 mg
Vitamin D
0 mcg
Vitamin B6
0.4 mg
Vitamin B12
0 mcg
Vitamin E
9.1 mg
Vitamin K
0.3 mcg
Folate
87 mcg
Thiamin (B1)
0.1 mg
Choline
63 mg

Other

Fiber
5 g

Source: USDA FoodData Central

Pairs well with

Recipes with Peanut Butter

Soft Banana & Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Soft Banana & Peanut Butter Energy Balls

A naturally sweet, no-bake snack perfect for little hands. These soft bites combine potassium-rich bananas with protein-packed peanut butter and fiber-filled oats for a healthy energy boost.

40 minFrom 12 mo
Butternut Squash & Peanut Butter Baby Meatballs

Butternut Squash & Peanut Butter Baby Meatballs

Juicy, iron-rich meatballs with hidden butternut squash for sweetness and smooth peanut butter for binding and allergen exposure. Egg-free and dairy-free. Soft enough for baby to mash with their gums, cut in halves for pincer grasp practice.

35 minFrom 9 mo
Iron Rich Liver Brownie

Iron Rich Liver Brownie

Soft, fudgy, and naturally sweet brownie packed with iron-rich chicken liver, banana, and dates. Specially adapted for toddlers 12 months and older as a nutrient-dense snack with no added sugars. The cocoa and fruit flavors disguise the liver completely for a picky-eater friendly boost.

70 minFrom 12 mo
Peanut Butter & Banana Puree Swirl

Peanut Butter & Banana Puree Swirl

A safe and delicious way to introduce peanuts. This recipe features a smooth banana base with thinned peanut butter swirled in, providing healthy fats and protein while following early allergen introduction guidelines.

5 minFrom 6 mo
Peanut Butter & White Bean Bliss Balls

Peanut Butter & White Bean Bliss Balls

Protein-packed no-bake balls combining creamy peanut butter with white beans, oats, and dates. The beans are completely hidden, adding plant protein and keeping every ball soft and satisfying.

10 minFrom 18 mo
Soft Puffed Quinoa & Banana Toddler Cookies

Soft Puffed Quinoa & Banana Toddler Cookies

These simple three-ingredient cookies combine naturally sweet ripe banana with smooth peanut butter and crisp puffed quinoa. They bake into soft, wholesome bite-sized biscuits that are perfect for toddlers practicing self-feeding.

32 minFrom 12 mo

Frequently asked

When should I introduce peanut butter to avoid allergies?

Current research (LEAP study) suggests starting as early as 4-6 months, once your baby is ready for solids. Early, consistent exposure is shown to reduce the risk of peanut allergy by up to 80%. If your baby has severe eczema or an existing egg allergy, consult your pediatrician first.

What kind of peanut butter should I buy?

Choose '100% Peanuts' only. Avoid brands with added sugar, salt, or palm oil/hydrogenated oils. Check the label to ensure it is 'Smooth/Creamy'—never buy 'Crunchy' for a baby.

Track Peanut Butter in the Nica app

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