Peanut butter is a rich, creamy spread that has the unique ability to perfectly complement just about any other food. It's the perfect companion for your morning toast, afternoon sandwich, or late-night dessert. And there's a reason why peanut butter is so popular: This creamy treat is delicious, nutritious, and versatile.

National Peanut Butter Day was first celebrated in 2012 to commemorate the anniversary of when peanut butter made its commercial debut in the United States. The Adult Peanut Butter Lovers Fan Club and the National Peanut Board both sponsored a day that saw full-page spreads of peanut butter in newspapers across America.

The History of Peanut Butter

The history of peanut butter is a long and illustrious one. In fact, it's almost as rich and complex as the delicious spread itself.

The first known use of peanuts dates back to 7500 BC in Central America, where they were used by the Aztecs and later Spanish explorers as food for both humans and animals. It wasn't until 1894 that John Harvey Kellogg invented crunchy peanut butter with his patented process for blending roasted peanuts with sugar syrup—a popular ingredient at American sanitariums during that time period.

According to the National Peanut Board, the peanut butter that we know and love today was first introduced at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904 by a St. Louis physician who made the concoction for his patients who have difficulty swallowing solid foods. In the first two world wars, the peanut butter and jelly sandwich were a go-to meal for soldiers.

How To Celebrate National Peanut Butter Day

We celebrate peanut butter on this day to honor its delicious, nutty flavor. Here are some ways to celebrate National Peanut Butter Day:

Make Yourself a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

What better way to celebrate National Peanut Butter Day than by making yourself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? It’s a classic American treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. The best part is that you can make it however you want. You can use different kinds of bread, peanut butter, and jelly flavors and even add in some extras like raisins or chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless!

Go To Your Local Grocery Store and Grab A Jar of Peanut Butter

If you’re feeling adventurous, head over to the grocery store on National Peanut Butter Day and pick up a jar or two of peanut butter. The good news is that there are so many different types available these days so you won’t have any problem finding one that suits your taste buds.

Try a New Peanut Butter

Almond, cashew, sunflower seed, hazelnut—the list goes on and on. You’ll find that each type has its own unique flavor and texture, and you may discover that you like one better than another. There are even chocolate-flavored peanut kinds of butter that are sure to please those who love a little sweetness with their peanut butter.

Make Your Own Peanut Butter

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try making your own peanut butter, there are a few different ways to do it. You can use a food processor, which works well if you have the right attachment. Alternatively, you could use an old-fashioned hand blender or even just mix everything up with a fork. Once you’ve got your peanut butter made, spread it on toast or crackers for breakfast—or enjoy it straight from the jar!

Host A Peanut Butter Party!

Hosting a peanut butter party is a great way to get everyone together and enjoy this tasty food. Whether you have kids or adults coming, there’s something for everyone at such an event! Serve up different types of peanut butter, along with some delicious crackers and bread for dipping. You could also set up a DIY peanut butter bar, where guests can make their own peanut butter concoctions! Just add different ingredients to a big jar of peanut butter—like chocolate chips or crackers—and let everyone have at it.

Plant Your Own Peanut Tree

If you’re a peanut butter lover who has a garden or backyard, consider planting your own peanut tree. Peanut trees are easy to grow and can be found at many nurseries around the country. The trees will produce nuts in just a few years, and they’ll provide you with plenty of fresh peanut butter to enjoy!

Proclaim Your Love For Peanut Butter on Social Media

Use social media to show your love for peanut butter! Share a picture of your favorite way to eat it, or use the #NationalPeanutButterDay. Post a funny meme or quote about peanut butter, and tag your friends in it. Tell everyone that today is the day to celebrate all things peanut butter!

Fun Facts About Peanut Butter

It's no secret that peanut butter is a delicious treat, but did you know that it has some pretty remarkable fun facts? Here are some of our favorites:

•  The most common brand of peanut butter in the United States is Jif.
• To make a 12-ounce jar of peanut butter, you'll need approximately 540 peanuts.
• US Presidents Thomas Jefferson and Jimmy Carter are both peanut farmers.
• More than $800 million are spent annually on peanut butter in the US alone.
• Peanut butter is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamin E. They have been known to have the ability to lower cholesterol, reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, and even protect against certain cancers.
• Peanuts are not nuts; they are legumes. In fact, they're technically a seed.
• There are four types of peanuts: Virginia, Runner, Spanish, and Valencia.
• In a high-pressure environment, peanuts can be turned into diamonds!

Conclusion

Today, we celebrate all things peanut buttery. From the health benefits to the history, we are grateful for the tasty treat that is peanut butter.

It is a food that brings us together, reminds us of our childhoods, and makes us smile. So if you haven’t already, go grab yourself a spoonful of peanut butter and enjoy!