5 Ways to Pair Apples & Peanut Butter

Originally published in May 2019; updated February 2021.

The Classic Combo

This is going to sound odd but peanut butter has become part of my daily routine. I’ve mentioned many times before that my youngest son is quite the picky eater and while I still think (or hope!) that time will help him come to love a variety of foods, I’ve also succumbed to his wishes and perfected the art of making a peanut butter and jelly (or occasionally honey) sandwich for his school lunch each day. His love for peanut butter runs as deep as my love for ice cream, I guess! Luckily, one of his favorite choices aside from a sandwich is one that I proudly support: the classic combo of apples and peanut butter!

Enjoying apples with peanut butter is not only a tasty snack, but one that fuels your body with nutrients. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, while peanut butter contains protein. Eating these two foods together can help keep you feel full longer. The sustenance apples and peanut butter provide is especially great for people trying to lose weight. So, next time you can’t decide what to eat with your apple slices, peanut butter is a healthy option to keep you energized and healthy.

Let’s Talk Snacking Options

When it comes to bringing apples and peanut butter together, you simply can’t go wrong. The most popular choice is cutting an apple into slices and dipping them into a bowl of peanut butter (or maybe taking peanut butter in by the spoonful!). You could even add a touch of honey to the peanut butter make it a sweeter treat. The combo of apples and peanut butter also lends itself to lots of creativity! Consider adding apples to your next peanut butter sandwich for an extra crunch or use the two foods in a granola bar for a protein and fiber-filled snack that’s ready at a moment’s notice. You can even make a powerful workout recovery smoothie with apples, chocolate, and peanut butter. Yum!

The wide variety of apples availability today can also keep your apple and peanut butter combinations interesting. At Stemilt, our recommended apples to pair with peanut butter are Gala, Pink Lady®, and Granny Smith apples. Pinata® is a great choice too, while regional apples, like Empire, are great when in season.

5 Ways to Pair Apples & Peanut Butter:

Now that you know all about the classic combo of apples and peanut butters, I must share some of my favorites with you. Give these a try, and be sure to share any apple and peanut butter snacks you love in the comments below.

1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Apple Recovery Smoothie
2. Peanut Butter and Apple Sandwich
3. Apple & PB Wraps
4. Baked Apple Chips with Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip
5. Apple Nachos

What if you can’t eat peanuts?

I know peanuts are a common allergen for many, but there’s good news for those that can’t indulge in this classic combo. You can substitute peanut butter with other nut or nut-alternative butters. Common peanut butter substitutes are: almond butter, sunflower butter, cashew butter, tahini, and the many types of mixed/superfood butters available now. One of my secrets to adding a bit of variety to my picky eater’s lunch is to substitute peanut butter with a nut butter a few days a week.