Coconut butter is a creamy spread made from the flesh of coconuts. Unlike coconut oil, which is purely the fat extracted from the coconut, coconut butter contains both the fat and the fiber of the coconut meat, providing a rich texture and flavor. It’s packed with healthy fats, minerals, and nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to various recipes.

Using a Vitamix to make coconut butter has several advantages:

Speed: It takes only about 1 minute to make coconut butter in a Vitamix compared to 15-20 minutes in a food processor.
Smoothness: The powerful motor of the Vitamix creates a much smoother and creamier texture than a food processor can achieve.

To make coconut butter, you will need just one ingredient:

Unsweetened shredded coconut or flaked coconut (6-8 cups)

Equipment

Vitamix blender
Tamper (optional but recommended)

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start with at least 6 cups of unsweetened shredded or flaked coconut. If you prefer a smoother texture, coconut flakes may be a better choice than shredded coconut.

Step 2: Blend the Coconut

Add Coconut to the Vitamix: Pour the shredded coconut into your Vitamix container.
Start Blending: Begin blending on a low speed and gradually increase to high speed.
Use the Tamper: If your coconut gets stuck on the sides, use the tamper to push it down towards the blades. This will help the blending process.
Blend Until Smooth: Continue blending for about 1-4 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides occasionally.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency

If your coconut butter is too thick, you can add a teaspoon of coconut oil to help thin it out. Blend again until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Store Your Coconut Butter

Once blended, pour the coconut butter into a clean, airtight glass container. Unlike nut butters, coconut butter can be stored at room temperature in a pantry for several months. If it solidifies, simply place the container in warm water to soften it.

Quantity Matters: Ensure you use at least 6 cups of coconut to allow the Vitamix blades to work effectively. Smaller quantities may not blend well.
Scrape Down the Sides: Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the container halfway through blending to ensure all coconut is incorporated.
Cooling Time: The coconut butter will be liquid immediately after blending but will firm up as it cools. Allow it to set for about 24 hours for best results.

Coconut butter is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate it into your diet:

Spread on Toast: Use it as a spread on toast or pancakes.
In Baking: Substitute it for butter in recipes for cookies, cakes, and muffins.
Smoothies: Add a spoonful to your smoothies for a creamy texture and coconut flavor.
Desserts: Use it in raw desserts, fudge, or chocolate truffles.

Making coconut butter in a Vitamix is not only simple but also a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy a delicious and healthy spread at home. With just one ingredient and a powerful blender, you can create a creamy, smooth coconut butter that’s perfect for a variety of recipes. So, grab your Vitamix, and start blending your way to homemade coconut butter today!