Butter Bean hummus

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The creamiest butter bean hummus made with tahini, smoked paprika, cumin, and lemon juice! Enjoy it with veggies and crisps, or spread it on bread.

Calling all HUMMUS LOVERS! Remember that stunning dill pickle hummus recipe I shared a few moths ago? Well, now I present to you the ultimate creamy butter bean hummus! Just take a look at its beautiful smoky colour!

Butter beans, also known as baby lima beans, have the softest texture. They're starchy, buttery, and ideal for creating an ultra-creamy dip. Blending them with tahini, garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin results in an incredible variation that you'll want to use for everything! It's easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining!

Butter bean hummus spread on crackers with parsley. Cucumber sticks to the side.

Ingredients you'll need

All you need to make this butter bean hummus recipe are 7 key ingredients:

Butter Beans: These will make a creamy base for the hummus. Make sure to drain and rinse them first.
Garlic: Fresh is best but you can also use garlic powder if that is what you have.
Tahini: As with classic hummus, a key ingredient in this recipe is tahini paste. Made from ground sesame seeds, it lends the dip a delightful nutty flavour and creamy texture.
Lemon: The juice from one lemon provides a zesty and vibrant flavour.
Seasonings: Ground cumin, smoked paprika and salt, enhancing the dip with delicious flavours.
To garnish: Freshly minced parsley, toasted sesame seeds, paprika, and olive oil.

The complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

Recipe Variations

White Beans: Experiment with cannellini beans or navy beans to create a different variety of white bean hummus.
Seasonings: Instead of smoked paprika, try sweet paprika, coriander, or even curry powder for a sweeter or stronger flavour profile.
Nut Butter: Explore alternatives to tahini such as almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a different nutty taste.
Spicy: Add a fiery kick to the dip with red chili flakes or cayenne powder. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of heat.

How to make butter bean hummus

Rinse the beans: Drain and rinse the butter beans thoroughly.

Blend: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the butter beans, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and 3 tablespoons of water. Puree for 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Adjust and ice: Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Then, add an ice cube and blend again. The ice cube helps maintain the hummus's freshness and gives it a light, airy texture.

Optional: Serve topped with freshly minced parsley, toasted sesame seeds, paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Serving suggestions

As a spread: It’s the perfect thick, creamy sauce for burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and toast.
As a dip: Use this hummus to dip tortilla chips, toasted pita or flatbread into it. fresh vegetables, flatbread, crackers, or pretzels.
In a dressing or sauce: Add oil and vinegar to this hummus to make a salad dressing or a sauce.
To pile: Top your hummus with charred vegetables like Charred Broccoli for a light vegan meal!

Butter bean hummus in a bowl with a cracker.

How to store

Butter bean hummus is ideal for preparing ahead as its flavour enhances over time. Transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For added freshness, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing the container.

Recipe FAQ

Can I freeze the hummus?

Yes, you can freeze this hummus for later use. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Can I make this hummus ahead of time?

Absolutely! This hummus actually tastes better when allowed to sit for a while, so feel free to prepare it a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use canned butter beans?

Yes, canned butter beans work perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before using.

Can you make butter bean hummus without tahini?

Absolutely! you can make butter bean hummus without tahini. While tahini adds a distinct flavor and texture to traditional hummus recipes, you can omit it or substitute it with nut butter, Greek yogurt, or avocado!

More delicious dip recipes

Dill Pickle Hummus

Avocado Lime Crema

High Protein Hummus

Roasted Broccoli Hummus

If you try this butter bean hummus recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.