How to Make Coconut Butter and Why You Should!

You probably know that coconut oil has a plethora of beneficial compounds, so it should come as no surprise that coconut butter can be a healthy addition to the diet as well.

Coconut butter is a rich, creamy spread made from finely ground coconut meat. Unlike coconut oil, which contains only the extracted fat, coconut butter includes the entire coconut flesh, giving it a thicker texture and naturally sweet, nutty flavor.

Often used like a nut butter, coconut butter can be spread on toast, blended into smoothies, drizzled over baked goods, or incorporated into desserts and snacks. It’s also surprisingly simple to make at home with just one ingredient: dried coconut.

So keep reading to learn how to make coconut butter, along with its benefits, nutrition and more.

What is coconut butter?

Coconut butter is a creamy spread made by blending or grinding the meat (flesh) of dried coconut until it becomes smooth and spreadable. Unlike coconut oil, which contains only the extracted fat, coconut butter includes the whole coconut meat, giving it a thicker texture and naturally sweet coconut flavor.

Because it contains the entire coconut flesh, coconut butter provides fiber, healthy fats and small amounts of minerals along with its rich taste.

Key characteristics

• Made from ground coconut meat
• Thick, creamy texture similar to nut butter
• Naturally sweet and tropical flavor
• Solid at cool temperatures but softens when warmed
• Contains healthy fats, fiber and trace nutrients

Coconut butter is sometimes labeled as:

• Coconut manna
• Coconut concentrate
• Creamed coconut

These products all refer to coconut meat that has been processed into a spreadable paste.

What does coconut butter taste like?

Coconut butter has a rich, naturally sweet coconut flavor with a creamy texture similar to almond or peanut butter. Depending on temperature, it may be:

• Firm when cool
• Spreadable at room temperature
• Pourable when gently warmed

This versatility makes coconut butter popular in recipes such as:

• smoothies
• oatmeal
• toast or pancakes
• energy bites
• baked goods
• sauces and frostings

What are the benefits of coconut butter?

1. May aid weight loss

Coconut butter contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that the body rapidly converts into energy rather than storing as body fat. These fats may increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation, which can support weight management goals when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

A randomized, controlled clinical trial involving 29 adult men with obesity found that daily consumption of coconut oil alongside a balanced diet improved metabolic markers and increased HDL (“good”) cholesterol compared with soybean oil. Researchers noted that coconut oil may support improvements in body composition and metabolic health.

Because coconut butter contains similar fatty acids and MCTs as coconut oil, it may provide similar metabolic benefits when used in moderation.

2. Helps boost immunity

Coconut butter contains lauric acid, a fatty acid that the body converts into monolaurin, a compound known for its antimicrobial and immune-supporting properties.

Research examining coconut oil and its derivatives has shown that lauric acid can help reduce harmful microbes and support immune defense mechanisms by disrupting the lipid membranes of certain bacteria and viruses.

These antimicrobial compounds may help the immune system maintain a healthy microbial balance in the body.

3. Holds antibacterial power

Lauric acid and monolaurin found in coconut products have demonstrated antibacterial and antimicrobial activity against a variety of microorganisms.

Research shows that lauric acid and monolaurin can damage the lipid membranes of bacteria and enveloped viruses, impairing their ability to infect host cells. For example, experimental research has demonstrated that coconut-derived lauric acid can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, by disrupting bacterial cell walls and enhancing immune cell activity.

In addition, studies on fatty acids from coconut have shown antiviral activity by preventing viruses from binding to host cell membranes and interfering with viral maturation and replication processes, thereby reducing viral infectivity.

4. Combats inflammation

Chronic inflammation is linked to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders and autoimmune conditions. Some research suggests that coconut-derived fats may influence inflammatory markers.

In a randomized, controlled dietary study, women consuming coconut oil experienced a 35 percent reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP), a key marker of systemic inflammation, compared with another dietary oil group.

These results suggest that coconut-derived fats may help support balanced inflammatory responses when included in a healthy diet.

5. May enhance athletic performance

The MCTs found in coconut butter are quickly absorbed and transported to the liver, where they can be converted into rapid energy, making them a popular ingredient in sports nutrition.

Metabolic research has shown that medium-chain fatty acids increase post-meal energy expenditure compared with longer-chain fats. Because of this rapid metabolism, athletes sometimes use MCT-rich foods such as coconut products to support endurance and sustained energy during exercise.

6. Aids gut health

Coconut butter provides a combination of dietary fiber and antimicrobial fatty acids, both of which may help support digestive health.

Emerging research suggests that coconut-derived nutrients can influence the gut microbiome and inflammatory activity in the digestive tract. For example, clinical research investigating coconut products has shown that they may help modulate gut microbiota and improve intestinal health markers in certain conditions.

Additionally, the fiber in coconut butter may support regular digestion and beneficial gut bacteria.

7. Gives hair a shine

Coconut butter, much like coconut oil for hair, can make for a great hair mask that offers many benefits, including hair growth, preventing dandruff and as a conditioner. Coconut lipids can penetrate the hair shaft and help reduce protein loss from hair, which may improve shine, smoothness and hair strength.

Since it’s easily absorbed by the hair (and skin), it can reduce the negative effects of free radical damage while enhancing those gorgeous locks.

You can simply blend it with your favorite essential oil, like rosemary, and massage it into your hair. Leave it on for 20 minutes, and then shower as you normally would.

If you prefer, you can heat coconut butter a little bit to soften it, then apply it to the hair. Either way, it adds shine and helps maintain a healthy head of hair.

8. Protects skin

Unsurprisingly, you can use coconut butter for skin health similarly to coconut oil for skin. In fact, coconut-derived fats have long been used for skin care because they help hydrate the skin barrier and reduce moisture loss.

For instance, systematic reviews of human trials show that topical coconut oil can help improve symptoms of atopic dermatitis and skin dryness, likely due to its emollient and antimicrobial properties.

While coconut butter is primarily consumed as food, the same fatty acids may support skin health when included as part of a balanced diet.

9. Supports brain health

The MCTs found in coconut butter can be converted by the liver into ketones, an alternative fuel source for brain cells. Research has shown that diets containing MCTs can increase circulating ketone levels, which may help support cognitive function and energy metabolism in the brain.

Because coconut butter naturally contains these fats, it may contribute to brain energy metabolism when included in a nutrient-dense diet.

A 2026 randomized, controlled trial involving 36 young adults found that consuming MCT oil (a fat derived largely from coconut) improved working memory after four weeks of daily intake compared with long-chain triglycerides. Researchers concluded that MCTs can influence cognitive function by providing rapidly metabolized energy for brain cells.

Coconut oil vs. coconut butter

Many people confuse coconut butter with coconut oil, but they are very different products.

These relatives are similar in many ways, though the biggest difference is that coconut oil is a 100 percent full fat oil, whereas the butter contains fiber and other nutrients.

Coconut Butter	Coconut Oil
Made from whole coconut meat	Extracted oil from coconut
Contains fiber and nutrients	Pure fat
Thick, creamy spread	Clear oil that solidifies when cold
Used in spreads, desserts and smoothies	Used mostly for cooking or frying

Because coconut butter includes the whole coconut, it works well in recipes, sauces, desserts, smoothies and homemade spreads.

How to make coconut butter

This easy coconut butter recipe shows how to turn shredded coconut into a smooth, versatile spread in minutes. Once prepared, it can be used to add creamy texture and tropical flavor to everything from breakfast bowls and energy bites to sauces and baked treats.

Since coconut butter only contains the one ingredient, coconut, you just need to understand what to buy: 100 percent unsweetened, dried coconut that’s either shredded or flakes.

You may want to try both since the texture is different for each. Flakes often turn into a smoother butter than shredded coconut does.

Using a food processor and a high-powdered blender, place about 4.5 cups of coconut into your food processor or blender. The blending time is about 15 to 20 minutes if using a food processor and 10 to 15 minutes (or less) if using a blender.

For best results, occasionally stop the machine, and scrape down the sides to push the coconut into the mixture.

As you are making the coconut butter, it will initially have a finely shredded texture. Eventually, it will start to get somewhat thin and grainy, becoming a smooth, thick liquid.

You may find that the final product seems runny, but when you try it, it will have more of a thick, sticky texture, similar to a grainy nut butter.

Keep it in a glass jar at room temperature in the kitchen cabinet or cupboard. Once it cools to room temperature, it will help it have a more solid, spreadable consistency.

Coconut butter is delicious on anything from toasted sourdough to pancakes. It’s great in smoothies, coffee, or blended with other nut butters and dark chocolate as a tasty treat.  You can add a little to your favorite curry dishes too.

And let’s not forget the magic it does on the body. It can be a great hair mask or body scrub.

Risks and side effects

Coconut butter is great for so many things from vegan sweet treats and curry dishes to the skin and hair, but if you decide to heat it up on the stove, please be careful. It burns very easily. Keep temps on low for safe cooking, and keep your eye on it.

Keep in mind that while lauric acid is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women in normal food amounts, larger amounts should be avoided. Simply check with your physician.

Overall, coconut butter can be a nutritious addition to many diets when used in moderation. However, like any high-fat food, it may come with certain risks or side effects for some individuals.

High in calories and fat

Coconut butter is calorie-dense because it contains the natural fats from coconut meat. Just one tablespoon provides roughly 100 calories and 10 grams of fat. Eating large amounts regularly may contribute to excess calorie intake and potential weight gain if not balanced within a healthy diet.

Contains saturated fat

Coconut butter is rich in saturated fat, primarily in the form of MCTs. While some research suggests MCTs may have metabolic benefits, health organizations still recommend moderating saturated fat intake to support heart health.

Individuals with high cholesterol or cardiovascular concerns may want to speak with a healthcare provider before consuming large amounts of coconut-based foods.

May cause digestive discomfort

Eating too much coconut butter at once may lead to digestive issues such as:

• bloating
• stomach discomfort
• diarrhea

This can happen because coconut fats are rapidly absorbed and may be difficult for some people to digest in large quantities. Starting with small servings can help reduce the likelihood of digestive upset.

Potential allergic reactions

Although coconut allergy is uncommon, some people may experience allergic reactions to coconut products. Symptoms could include itching, swelling or digestive distress.

Anyone with known tree nut or coconut sensitivities should consult a healthcare professional before consuming coconut butter.

Not ideal for certain diets

Because coconut butter is high in fat and calories, it may not fit well with certain low-fat or medically prescribed diets. People following specific dietary guidelines should check with a healthcare provider before adding coconut butter regularly.

Coconut butter can be a flavorful and versatile ingredient, but it is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid excess calories, saturated fat intake or digestive discomfort.

Frequently asked questions

What is coconut butter made of?

Coconut butter is made from pure coconut meat that has been finely ground or blended until it forms a thick, creamy spread. The best coconut butter contains just one ingredient: coconut.

Is coconut butter the same as coconut oil?

No. Coconut butter and coconut oil are different products.

• Coconut butter: made from the whole coconut flesh and contains fiber.
• Coconut oil: extracted fat from coconut meat with no fiber.

Because coconut butter contains the entire coconut, it has a thicker texture and more nutrients.

What does coconut butter taste like?

Coconut butter has a rich, creamy texture and naturally sweet coconut flavor. It tastes similar to coconut combined with the consistency of a nut butter.

How do you use coconut butter?

Coconut butter is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many ways, including:

• spreading on toast
• stirring into oatmeal
• blending into smoothies
• drizzling over fruit
• making energy bites
• adding to desserts or baked goods
• using in sauces and frostings

It can also be eaten straight from the jar.

How do you make coconut butter at home?

To make coconut butter:

1. Add unsweetened shredded coconut to a food processor.
2. Blend for 10 to 20 minutes, stopping to scrape the sides.
3. Continue processing until the coconut releases oils and becomes smooth.

The result is homemade coconut butter with no added ingredients.

Is coconut butter healthy?

Coconut butter contains healthy fats, fiber and small amounts of minerals, such as iron and calcium.
Because it is energy-dense, it is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Does coconut butter need to be refrigerated?

Coconut butter does not require refrigeration. It can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for several months. If it becomes too firm, gently warm the jar to soften it.

Why is my coconut butter hard?

Coconut butter becomes firm in cooler temperatures because its natural fats solidify. Warming the jar slightly or placing it in warm water will make it soft and spreadable again.

Conclusion

• Coconut butter is amazing in just about as many ways as coconut oil, and maybe a little more. But, just like coconut oil, you have to enjoy it in moderation. While it is a healthy fat, it is still fat.
• Substituting coconut butter instead of regular butter can be a great way to gain some added nutritional value.
• Coconut butter benefits include potentially aiding weight loss, boosting immunity, warding off viruses, helping prevent disease, providing a performance boost for athletes, containing beneficial fiber, giving hair a shine and providing minerals.

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