Calories in Cashew Butter: Nutrition Facts & Serving Sizes

Cashew butter is a creamy, mild-flavored nut butter made from ground roasted or raw cashews. One tablespoon contains about 94 calories, with a balanced profile of healthy fats, plant protein, and important minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc. It is one of the lower-fat nut butters available, making it a popular choice for those seeking a nutrient-dense spread without as many calories as other options.

Calories by serving size:

Cashew butter is an excellent source of magnesium (about 83 mg per 2-tablespoon serving, roughly 20% of the daily value), and also provides meaningful amounts of iron, zinc, copper, and phosphorus. Its naturally sweet, buttery taste makes it versatile in both sweet and savory dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a tablespoon of cashew butter?

One tablespoon of cashew butter (about 16 grams) contains approximately 94 calories. It provides 7.9 grams of total fat, 2.8 grams of protein, and 4.4 grams of carbohydrates, making it a moderately calorie-dense spread.

How does cashew butter compare to peanut butter?

Cashew butter has slightly fewer calories than peanut butter — about 94 calories per tablespoon versus 96 for peanut butter. Cashew butter is also somewhat lower in total fat and protein but higher in carbohydrates and iron. Peanut butter tends to have more fiber and slightly more protein per serving, while cashew butter offers a creamier texture and milder flavor.

Is cashew butter a good source of minerals?

Yes, cashew butter is notably rich in several essential minerals. A 2-tablespoon serving provides about 20% of the daily value for magnesium, 10% for iron, and 11% for zinc. It is also a good source of copper and phosphorus, making it one of the more mineral-dense nut butters available.

Is cashew butter lower in fat than other nut butters?

Cashew butter is among the lower-fat nut butters, with about 7.9 grams of fat per tablespoon compared to roughly 9 grams in macadamia nut butter and 8.1 grams in almond butter. While the difference is modest, it does make cashew butter slightly lower in total calories, which can add up over time for those watching their intake.

Can cashew butter be used in cooking and baking?

Absolutely. Cashew butter's mild, slightly sweet flavor makes it highly versatile — it works well in smoothies, salad dressings, stir-fry sauces, and baked goods. It can be used as a 1:1 substitute for peanut butter in most recipes, and its creamy consistency blends especially well into dairy-free sauces, soups, and desserts.