Prep warning
Never serve whole peanuts or thick globs of peanut butter to a child under 4.
Choking notes
A spoonful of peanut butter is a well-documented choking hazard. Always thin it out or spread thinly, and never serve by the spoonful to a child under 4.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Thick spoonfuls can block the airway, so always thin or spread very thinly on toast or food. Per AAP and NIAID (LEAP study), early regular intake helps prevent peanut allergy.
Start with about a quarter teaspoon of smooth peanut butter, thinned with water, breast milk, formula, or puree until loose and runny. Increase gradually.
9-12 months
Maintain regular exposure (twice weekly) once introduced to keep tolerance steady. Never spoon-feed plain peanut butter; the thick paste remains a choking hazard.
Continue smooth peanut butter thinned or stirred into other foods like oatmeal, yogurt, or batter. Spread very thinly on toast or pancake strips.
12-18 months
Always serve with water or milk so sticky residue clears the mouth. Choking risk persists; offer thin spreads, not spoonfuls.
Continue mixing smooth peanut butter into soft, scoopable foods or batter for baking. Honey is now safe in recipes that include peanut butter.
2 years and up
Continue close supervision; chunky varieties still pose a choking risk if spread too thickly. Keep thick spoonfuls and dollops off the spoon.
Chunky peanut butter is now acceptable when thinly spread on other foods. Smooth versions remain a fine choice for younger toddler siblings sharing meals.
Key nutrients
Allergen information
Peanut is a common allergen. Read Peanut guidance
Common questions
When can my baby eat Peanut butter?
Most babies can try Peanut butter from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.
General informational content, not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician about introducing new foods, especially if your baby has any medical conditions or family history of allergies.
Track Peanut butter and every first food in nappi
Log solids, watch for reactions, and get reminders to reintroduce new foods. Free to try.