The Specific Peanut Butter Spread
The peanut butter in the Starbucks Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box is a custom-made 'honey peanut butter spread', not a standard commercial brand. This unique formulation is integral to the snack box's flavor profile and is not available for purchase on its own.
Ingredients Breakdown
Starbucks provides the ingredient list for its honey peanut butter spread in the US Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box. The key components are:
- Dry roasted peanuts
- Organic honey
- Organic cane sugar
- Peanut oil
- Palm oil
- Sea salt
The combination of peanuts, honey, and cane sugar results in a sweet spread, while palm oil acts as an emulsifier to maintain a smooth consistency and prevent separation.
Comparison: Starbucks Spread vs. Natural Peanut Butter
The Starbucks honey peanut butter spread differs from typical natural peanut butter, which usually contains only peanuts and salt.
| Feature | Starbucks Honey Peanut Butter Spread | Natural Peanut Butter (Peanuts + Salt) |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetness | Significant (Organic Honey, Organic Cane Sugar) | None (sugar-free) |
| Emulsifiers | Palm Oil | None (requires stirring) |
| Ingredient List | Peanuts, honey, cane sugar, peanut oil, palm oil, sea salt | Peanuts, salt |
| Consistency | Creamy and uniform | Often separated, requiring stirring |
| Flavor | Sweet, with a hint of honey | Pure, roasted peanut flavor |
How to Recreate the Starbucks Honey Peanut Butter Spread at Home
For those who enjoy the Starbucks spread, a homemade version can be easily created with control over the ingredients and sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry roasted peanuts
- 2-3 tbsp organic honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp organic cane sugar (optional)
- A pinch of sea salt
- 1-2 tsp peanut oil (if needed)
Instructions:
- Process dry roasted peanuts in a food processor until creamy.
- Add honey, optional sugar, and salt; blend until combined.
- If a thinner consistency is desired, add peanut oil gradually and process.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator; stirring may be needed before serving due to the absence of emulsifiers like palm oil.
The Role of Palm Oil
The inclusion of palm oil in the Starbucks spread helps to stabilize it and prevent oil separation. Homemade versions typically omit palm oil, resulting in a spread that may require stirring.
What About Other Starbucks Protein Box Options?
The honey peanut butter spread is featured in the Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box. Other Starbucks protein offerings, such as the Peanut Butter & Jam Protein Box or products like Perfect Bars, use different types of peanut butter or spreads.
Conclusion
The peanut butter in the Starbucks protein box is a distinct honey peanut butter spread, made by Starbucks rather than being a retail brand. Its sweet and smooth profile comes from a blend of dry roasted peanuts, organic honey, organic cane sugar, and stabilizing oils including palm oil. For those who enjoy this unique taste, a simple homemade recipe allows for a customizable alternative.