Start with dry, roasted nuts. If your nuts are raw, you can roast them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Let them cool before proceeding.
Place the nuts and salt in a food processor. If desired, add any optional sweeteners or flavorings at this stage.
Process the nuts: Turn on the food processor and let it run continuously. Initially, the nuts will break down into a fine meal. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Continue processing: As you process further, the nuts will release their natural oils and start to clump together. This process can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the type of nuts and the desired consistency.
Optional: Add oil if needed. I usually never have to add any oil. But if the nut butter seems too dry or isn't coming together, you can add a tablespoon or two of oil to help smooth it out. Process again until desired consistency is reached.
Taste and adjust: At this point, you can taste the nut butter and adjust the flavorings or sweetness to your preference. Add more sweeteners or flavorings if desired and process briefly to incorporate.
Transfer to a jar: Once you're satisfied with the consistency and flavor, transfer the nut butter to a clean, airtight jar or container. Store it in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. Note: The processing time may vary depending on the power and quality of your food processor. Be patient and stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. The nut butter will become creamier the longer you process it.
