Have you been swapping all-purpose flour with almond meal lately? If so, then you are probably wondering if you can make almond meal from scratch. While purchasing a pre-made almond meal is easier, making it at home isn't very hard and is an excellent option if you have whole almonds on hand. Ready to learn how to make almond meal? Continue scrolling as we discuss the benefits of homemade almond meal and provide step-by-step instructions on how to make it.
Is Almond Meal Healthy?
When compared to white all-purpose flour, almond flour contains more protein and healthy fats per serving. In fact, just one ounce of almonds and 3.5 grams of fiber, and 6 grams of protein, both of which will leave you feeling satisfied. In addition, because almond meal contains one ingredient, ground almonds, it is also an excellent source of magnesium.
Almond Meal vs. Almond Flour
Wondering what the differences are between almond meal and almond flour. You're not alone. Because the two flours sound the same and can be used interchangeably, they're often confused for one another. The truth is, while the flours are very similar, they do have slight differences. While almond meal is commonly made from whole, raw almonds, almond flour is made from blanched (peeled) almonds. This being so, almond flour often has a more delicate texture and lighter color. In comparison, almond meal has a more grainy texture and brown specks and spots throughout.
Though almond meal and flour can be used in the same recipes, most bakers prefer almond flour for recipes where a more cake-like consistency is desired. The less prominent almond flavor and fine grain of almond flour allow it to create baked foods with a light and fluffy texture, neutral flavor and uniform color.
You can see an example of where almond flour was used to create something a bit more grainy like these Five Ingredient Almond Chicken Tenders, and how almond flour can be used to create something light and fluffy like this Orange Almond Flour Cake.
How to Make Almond Meal
So, you've decided that you want to try making almond meal at home. To make almond meal all you need is one ingredient, a blender, and five minutes. It's that simple! Continue reading for step-by-step instructions on how to make almond meal.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 ½ cups raw almonds (sliced or whole)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Almonds
To make the right amount of almond meal, you want to ensure that you have 1 ½ cups of raw almonds on hand. After gathering the right amount of almonds, choose how you'd like to prepare them. Almonds can be added to the blender slices or whole. However, you must wash them first to remove any residue.
Step 2: Blend
Add 1 ½ cups of raw almonds to a high-speed blender and blend on high until a fine and powder-like flour is created. To ensure that all almonds are blended evenly, turn the blender on the highest setting for about ten seconds and then stop. Next, shake the blender and tap the sides to shake loose any clumps that may have formed. Repeat this process until the mixture is fine and powdery. Be careful not to over blend the almond meal, as it can turn from a flour-like substance to almond butter rather quickly.
Step 3: Check the Blender
Before removing the almond meal from the blender, check the blender for large clumps orbits of nuts. If you find clumps of nuts, continue to shake the base and blend until all nuts are well mixed.
Step 4: Store Your Almond Meal
Once all of the nuts have been blended into a fine flour, your almond meal is done. Transfer it to a jar or container with an airtight seal and store it unrefrigerated for up to 1 month.
Best Ways to Use Almond Meal
Now that you've made a delicious almond meal, it's time to use it. Keep scrolling to discover tasty and unique ways that you can begin using your almond meal today.
Fruit Crumbles
No matter what season it is, fruit crumbles are always a desired treat. When making your next fruit crumble, add a bit of almond meal to it. The crunch and nuttiness that almond meal provides are sure to take your recipe to the next level. To make an almond paste, combine a bit of almond meal with sugar and butter and mix until the consistency thickens. Crumble this over your fruit and bake until it's bubbly and golden.
Baked Goods
Almond meal can be used to make delicious baked treats. Cookies, scones, brownies and muffins are just a few of the many desserts that can be with this superfood ingredient. Baked goods will be slightly chewy because almond meal is denser than almond flour and traditional flour. Or, to lighten some of your favorite baked desserts up a bit, try substituting some almond meal for a quarter to half of the all-purpose flour in your favorite baking recipes.
Crust for fish and chicken
Say sayonara to bread crumbs and use almond flour as a crust instead. Crispy, crunchy and loaded with a nutty flavor, dip fish, chicken or pork in beaten eggs, roll it in almond meal, and pan-fry it until it reaches a golden crisp for an adult love and lip approved meal. Gluten free, low carb, and loaded with nutrients, it's sure to become a family favorite.
Homemade Almond Butter
Not a fan of peanut butter? No problem. By blending it just a bit longer, you can turn almond meal into almond butter quickly. Use it as a spread on your morning toast, add it to a bowl of oatmeal, or drop a dollop into a smoothie recipe.
Almond Meal Recipes
Ready to use almond meal to create a delicious meal? We've compiled a list of our favorite almond meal recipes below. Keep reading to discover which sounds best to you.
Almond Meal Bread
Wondering how you can enjoy bread on a low-carb diet? We've got the perfect solution. For a low-carb, gluten free bread, make this Almond Meal Bread. Though it may look similar to a loaf of banana bread, it tastes quite different. Made of a unique blend of coconut flour and almond meal, it features the same whole grain texture and savory flavor that traditional bread does, despite being made from gluten free ingredients. Excellent for sandwiches, toast and snacking, everyone in the family is sure to enjoy this treat. To replicate the texture of traditional bread, eggs are used to replace gluten and starch. So, whether you're looking to reduce your carb intake or have a bag of almond meal ready to use in the pantry, this is the perfect recipe for you.
Almond Meal Fish Sticks
Easy to make and kid-friendly, these Almond Meal Fish Sticks taste so much better than those that you'll find in the frozen food section. While it does require a bit more work—purchasing fish, coating it and frying it, the result is well worth the effort. Plus, by making these from scratch, you get to choose quality ingredients that you can feel good about eating. A crispy delight that anyone can enjoy, this fish stick recipe is grain free, dairy free, gluten free and paleo-friendly. There's nothing else like it!
Apricot Almond Muffins
A dessert recipe that doubles as a sweet breakfast, these Apricot Almond Muffins are an excellent way to start your day. Made from almond meal, dried apricots and orange zest, they're entirely grain-free, making them ideal for people who have a gluten intolerance or wheat allergy. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, or slice them and spread a bit of jam on top. We're confident that this is one recipe you'll want to make again and again.
Almond Brownies
Finally, a dessert recipe that you can enjoy guilt-free. These moist and chewy Almond Brownies are a delightful treat. They're made with a mix of almond meal flour and unsweetened cocoa powder to keep the recipe entirely gluten free. Ideal for small gatherings or when you're cooking for guests with food allergies, this dessert recipe is one that you can't go wrong with. Additionally, For lactose-free baking, swap the butter out with a non-dairy alternative.
Whether you choose to purchase an almond meal like our Bob's Red Mill Almond Meal or make one at home using the steps above, we're confident that you'll love the many recipes that you can bake with it. We can't wait to see what you come up with. From everyone at Bob's Red Mill, happy baking!
Love using almond meal to create a delicious recipe? We’d love to hear more about the baked goods you’re creating. Share your favorite almond meal recipes with us in the comments below!
