Blending PB2 into Smoothies and Shakes
One of the most popular uses for PB2 is adding it to blended drinks. Its powdered form mixes seamlessly, providing a delicious peanut flavor without the added fat and calories of traditional peanut butter. For a classic combination, pair PB2 with a frozen banana and your milk of choice for a creamy, high-protein shake.
Classic Peanut Butter Smoothie
- 2 tbsp PB2
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- Optional: 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
PB&J Smoothie
- 2 tbsp PB2
- 1/2 cup frozen berries (strawberries or raspberries work well)
- 1 cup milk or yogurt
- Optional: A touch of honey for sweetness
Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake
- 2 tbsp chocolate PB2
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- Optional: A few ice cubes for extra thickness
Mixing PB2 into Breakfast Foods
Start your day with a boost of peanut butter flavor by incorporating PB2 into your morning meal. It can be easily stirred into many breakfast staples to add flavor and a protein kick, helping you stay full and focused.
- Oatmeal: Stir 1-2 tablespoons of PB2 into your hot or overnight oats after cooking. Add toppings like sliced banana, cinnamon, or chocolate chips for a treat.
- Yogurt: Mix a scoop of PB2 into plain Greek yogurt for an instant protein-packed fruit dip or breakfast bowl base. Top with granola or fresh fruit.
- Pancakes and Waffles: Whisk PB2 directly into your pancake or waffle batter before cooking to infuse them with a nutty flavor. You can also mix it with a little water and drizzle it over the top.
- Chia Seed Pudding: Add a scoop to your chia pudding mix along with your favorite milk for a peanut butter-flavored version.
Baking and Creating Desserts with PB2
PB2's versatility shines in baking and desserts, offering a healthier way to indulge your cravings. It can be used in its powdered form or rehydrated and used as a replacement for traditional peanut butter.
- Cookies and Brownies: Use PB2 as a substitute for some of the flour or rehydrated in place of peanut butter in recipes for cookies, brownies, or other baked goods.
- Frozen Treats: Blend PB2 with frozen bananas and a liquid for a healthy, creamy ice cream alternative. You can also mix it with fat-free whipped topping for frozen peanut butter cups.
- Energy Bites: Combine rehydrated PB2 with oats, honey, and other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for no-bake energy bites.
- Flavoring: Add PB2 powder directly to frosting, cake mixes, or other dessert batters for a subtle peanut butter taste.
Crafting Savory Sauces and Dressings with PB2
Don't limit PB2 to just sweet dishes. Its nutty flavor makes it a fantastic base for savory sauces and dressings. Since it’s a powder, it blends easily into liquids for a smooth, consistent texture.
- Thai Peanut Sauce: Mix PB2 with coconut milk, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic for a flavorful sauce for stir-fries, noodle dishes, or wraps.
- Salad Dressings: Whisk PB2 with water, rice wine vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup for a light and tasty peanut dressing for your salads.
- Marinades: Create a quick marinade for chicken or salmon by combining rehydrated PB2 with honey and soy sauce.
Snacking with PB2
For a quick, satisfying snack, PB2 is an excellent ingredient. It’s perfect for dipping and can be used in a variety of simple applications.
- Fruit Dip: Rehydrate PB2 with just enough water or milk to create a thick paste for dipping apple slices, celery sticks, or bananas.
- Toast or Rice Cakes: Mix PB2 with a little water until it's spreadable and use it on toast, bagels, or rice cakes. Add sliced bananas for extra flavor.
- Popcorn Topping: Sprinkle PB2 powder directly onto air-popped popcorn for a delicious and unexpected nutty seasoning.
- Sprinkle Topping: Add a teaspoon or two over a scoop of ice cream or into a cup of yogurt for a simple, instant flavor upgrade.
How PB2 Compares to Traditional Peanut Butter
Choosing between PB2 and traditional peanut butter often comes down to your dietary goals and how you plan to use it. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide.
| Feature | PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter | Traditional Peanut Butter |
|---|---|---|
| Fat Content | 90% less fat (1.5g per 2 tbsp) | High in fat (16g per 2 tbsp) |
| Calories | 60 calories per 2 tbsp | 191 calories per 2 tbsp |
| Texture | Powder form, can be rehydrated to a paste or sauce | Creamy or crunchy spread |
| Versatility | Excellent for blending, baking, and sauces | Best for spreading and dipping |
| Vitamin E | Very little or none, as it is fat-soluble | Good source, as it is found in the nut's fats |
Conclusion: The Versatile Peanut Powder
From protein-packed smoothies to savory stir-fry sauces and guilt-free desserts, PB2 offers a world of culinary possibilities. Its low-fat and low-calorie profile, combined with its seamless ability to integrate into both liquids and batters, makes it a healthy and versatile kitchen staple. No longer limited to just a spread, PB2 can be put in a multitude of sweet and savory dishes to add a satisfying peanut flavor. The next time you open a jar, think beyond the classic sandwich and explore the many creative ways to incorporate this powdered peanut butter into your cooking. Read more about PB2's nutritional profile on Healthline.
