Adding calorie-dense, nutrient-rich foods like nut butters to your daily meals can help you gain weight in a healthy and sustainable way. Here are five great options.
5 Delicious Nut Butters for Weight Gain
1. Almond Butter
Almond butter is a rich, creamy spread made from ground almonds. It offers a naturally sweet, slightly nutty flavor and is packed with healthy fats and protein. This butter is perfect for adding calories without unhealthy ingredients, making it ideal for those trying to gain weight. You can enjoy almond butter on toast, in smoothies, or even stirred into oatmeal. It also contains vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber, which help support overall wellness while bulking up.
- Calories (per 2 tbsp): ~190–200
- Rich in: Vitamin E, magnesium, monounsaturated fats
- Great with: Bananas, smoothies, Greek yogurt
- Texture: Smooth or crunchy
- Best for: Energy-boosting snacks
2. Peanut Butter
A classic favorite, peanut butter is both delicious and incredibly effective for weight gain. Made from roasted peanuts, it’s rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like niacin and folate. With a dense calorie content, just a few spoonfuls can add a significant boost to your daily intake. Choose natural or organic varieties without added sugar or hydrogenated oils for the healthiest option. It works well in sandwiches, sauces, or just straight from the jar.
- Calories (per 2 tbsp): ~190–210
- Rich in: Protein, niacin, folate
- Great with: Whole grain bread, apples, protein shakes
- Texture: Creamy or crunchy
- Best for: Quick, satisfying snacks
3. Cashew Butter
Cashew butter has a mild, buttery flavor and smooth consistency that makes it incredibly versatile. It contains slightly fewer calories than peanut butter but is still energy-dense and nutrient-rich, making it perfect for those looking to gain healthy weight. Cashew butter is also high in copper, magnesium, and iron, which support metabolism and energy production. Its creamy taste makes it great in desserts, sauces, or paired with fruit.
- Calories (per 2 tbsp): ~170–190
- Rich in: Copper, magnesium, iron
- Great with: Smoothies, dates, baking recipes
- Texture: Super smooth
- Best for: Dessert toppings, nutrient-rich snacks
4. Walnut Butter
Walnut butter is less common but a powerhouse for nutrition and healthy fats. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health and reduce inflammation. Its slightly bitter, earthy taste can be an acquired one, but it pairs well with sweet fruits and honey. Walnut butter is also lower in protein than others but high in polyunsaturated fats, making it a valuable addition to your diet if you’re looking to bulk up healthily.
- Calories (per 2 tbsp): ~180–200
- Rich in: Omega-3s, polyunsaturated fats, antioxidants
- Great with: Honey, berries, toast
- Texture: Thick and slightly grainy
- Best for: Heart-healthy fat intake
5. Hazelnut Butter
Beyond its famous chocolate-paired form, hazelnut butter on its own is a delicious way to increase calories and fats naturally. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and is rich in vitamin E and healthy monounsaturated fats. Hazelnut butter works well in both sweet and savory recipes, and it’s particularly tasty in smoothies and baking. Just be sure to choose versions without added sugars if you want to keep it clean and nutritious.
- Calories (per 2 tbsp): ~180–200
- Rich in: Vitamin E, healthy fats
- Great with: Cocoa powder, oatmeal, protein pancakes
- Texture: Creamy with a mild crunch
- Best for: Sweet recipes and spreads
Incorporating a variety of nut butters into your meals can help you gain weight while still nourishing your body with essential nutrients. Choose natural, minimally processed options and enjoy them creatively for the best results.