Pumpkin Seed Butter

Whether it is Fall or not, pumpkins and their nutritional powerhouse seeds are great sources of yumminess and fiber! A perfect combination to support gut health.

Pumpkin seeds contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source!

Here are some other benefits:

• Rich in nutrients

• May have antioxidant properties

• May have anti-inflammatory properties

• May have antiparasitic properties

• May support heart health

• May promote balanced blood sugar levels

• May promote a healthy sleep pattern

• May promote kidney health

• May support prostate health

• May support urinary health

• May promote bone health

Now, let’s get to the part you came here for – pumpkin seed butter!

Pumpkin Seed Butter

For those wondering, pumpkin seeds are whole seeds with their shells still on, whereas pepitas are the shell-less interior of pumpkin seeds and are still classified as pumpkin seeds. Pepitas, in Spanish, means “little seeds of squash.”

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw, unsalted pepitas (hull-free pumpkin seeds)
• 1/4 cup raw honey (or more if you’d like)
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp. salt

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF and line a baking pan with parchment paper
2. Combine the pepitas, honey, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl and toss until evenly coated.
3. Spread the pepitas in an even layer on the lined baking pan and cook for 10 minutes or until slightly golden.
4. After baking, let cool for 5 minutes before proceeding.
5. Transfer to a food processor and process at one-minute intervals, scraping down the sides between intervals until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. Patience is the key here; it may take a few minutes.
6. When desired consistency is reached, transfer to a glass jar and store at room temperature.