Peanut Butter for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve peanut butter to your baby, by age.

Protein-RichBrain-Boosting FatsIron-RichEasy to DigestEnergy-Dense

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very High (5/5)

Choking Hazard

Low (2/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Peanut Butter to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

Never serve peanut butter by the spoonful or as a thick glob, as it poses a high choking risk. Instead, thin a small amount (about 1/4 teaspoon or 1–1.5 grams) with breast milk, formula, or water until smooth and easy to mix into foods. Spread thinly on a strip of toast or mix thoroughly into warm cereal or pureed fruits/vegetables. Always observe baby closely while eating.

Serving Instructions

To introduce peanut butter, start with a very small amount (about 1/4 teaspoon or 1–1.5 grams) mixed well into other foods, like oatmeal, yogurt, or pureed fruits/vegetables. This helps reduce choking risk and sensitively exposes baby to the allergen. Serve with iron-rich foods like fortified cereals or puréed meats, and include a vitamin C source (like mashed berries or citrus) for optimal absorption. Avoid serving alone or in large quantities during this stage.

How to Serve Peanut Butter to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

Continue to avoid serving peanut butter by the spoonful. Offer thin layers (up to 1/2 teaspoon or 2–3 grams) spread on thinly sliced toast strips, pancakes, or stirred into porridge or yogurt. Always supervise, as toddlers may attempt to scoop thicker portions. For variety, mix with mashed fruits or veggies. Avoid thick clumps to minimize choking risk.

Serving Instructions

Peanut butter can be offered in slightly larger, but still thin, portions—up to 1/2 teaspoon (2–3 grams) per meal, spread on soft bread strips, pancakes, or stirred into warm foods. Combine with iron-rich foods and fruits/vegetables for balance. Continue to avoid thick chunks and always supervise closely. If introducing for the first time, use a very small portion and watch for allergic reactions over the next 2 hours.

How to Serve Peanut Butter to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

Around 18 months, some children may be ready for slightly thicker spreads (up to 1 teaspoon or 5 grams), but continue to avoid large dollops or offering it by the spoonful. Encourage self-spreading with supervision. Pair with whole-grain bread, pancakes, or fruit slices. Always ensure the spread remains thin and smooth to avoid choking risk. If new to peanut, introduce in very small amounts.

Serving Instructions

Most toddlers can handle up to 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of peanut butter spread thinly on whole grains, fruit slices, or pancakes as part of a balanced meal. Pair with proteins (like yogurt, eggs, or beans), iron-rich foods, and vitamin C for a rounded plate. Introduce new foods alongside, and supervise self-feeding. Avoid large globs or serving by the spoonful due to persistent choking risk.