FoodsNutPeanut
Peanut

Nut

Peanut

Peanuts are a fantastic source of protein and healthy fats for your baby's growth and development.[1] They have a creamy, rich texture that many babies enjoy, and they're packed with nutrients that support brain health and energy.[2] Introducing peanuts early can actually help reduce the risk of developing a peanut allergy later in life.[3]

6m+Common allergenChoking risk: High
First age6m+
CategoryNut
Common allergenYes
Choking riskHigh

When can babies eat Peanut?

You can introduce peanut products around 6 months of age, once your baby is showing readiness for solids and has tried a few other foods first. Early introduction is now recommended to help prevent allergies.[3]

How to serve Peanut by age

For babies 6-9 months, serve smooth peanut butter thinned with water, breastmilk, or formula to a runny, drippy consistency. Offer it on a pre-loaded spoon or mix a small amount into soft foods like oatmeal or yogurt to help your baby practice swallowing safely.
6 to 9 months

For babies 6-9 months, serve smooth peanut butter thinned with water, breastmilk, or formula to a runny, drippy consistency. Offer it on a pre-loaded spoon or mix a small amount into soft foods like oatmeal or yogurt to help your baby practice swallowing safely.

  • Thin peanut butter until it drips slowly off a spoon to reduce choking risk.
  • Start with just 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon to monitor for allergies.
  • Mix into mashed bananas or avocado for added flavor and nutrients.
  • Avoid adding salt, sugar, or honey to peanut butter for babies.
  • Always supervise closely during feeding.
For babies 9-12 months, you can offer slightly thicker peanut butter or finely ground peanut powder mixed into foods. Spread a thin layer on soft toast strips or stir into porridge to encourage self-feeding and texture exploration as chewing skills develop.
9 to 12 months

For babies 9-12 months, you can offer slightly thicker peanut butter or finely ground peanut powder mixed into foods. Spread a thin layer on soft toast strips or stir into porridge to encourage self-feeding and texture exploration as chewing skills develop.

  • Use peanut powder stirred into applesauce or yogurt for a protein boost.
  • Spread a thin layer on whole-grain toast cut into finger-sized strips.
  • Combine with pureed fruits like pears or peaches to balance flavors.
  • Gradually increase portion size if no allergic reactions occur.
  • Continue to avoid whole nuts or large chunks.
For toddlers 12 months and up, you can introduce more textured forms like finely chopped peanuts or chunky peanut butter, but ensure pieces are tiny and soft. Serve as a topping on oatmeal or mixed into baked goods, always supervising to prevent choking.
12 months +

For toddlers 12 months and up, you can introduce more textured forms like finely chopped peanuts or chunky peanut butter, but ensure pieces are tiny and soft. Serve as a topping on oatmeal or mixed into baked goods, always supervising to prevent choking.

  • Chop peanuts into very small, soft pieces and mix into muffins or pancakes.
  • Offer chunky peanut butter only if your child chews well and under close watch.
  • Use peanuts in homemade trail mixes with soft dried fruits for snacks.
  • Encourage self-feeding with peanut-based dips for veggies or fruits.
  • Maintain regular peanut exposure to support ongoing tolerance.

Safety & allergens

Choking risk: High

Whole peanuts and chunky peanut butter are serious choking hazards for babies and toddlers. Always serve peanut butter thinned with water, breast milk, or formula to a smooth, runny consistency. Never give whole peanuts to children under 4 years old.

Common allergen

Peanut allergy affects about 2% of children in the United States.[4]

Vitamins & minerals

Peanuts provide healthy fats that support brain development and vitamin E that acts as an antioxidant to protect cells.[1][2] They're also rich in magnesium for bone health and B vitamins like folate (B9) that are essential for growth and energy production.[6]

Vitamins
Vitamin VITAMIN EVitamin VITAMIN B3Vitamin VITAMIN B6Vitamin VITAMIN B9
Minerals
MagnesiumPhosphorusPotassiumCopperManganese