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Walnuts and almonds do have protein, and both are surprisingly solid plant-based sources of it.
Walnuts deliver about 4.3 grams of protein per ounce, while almonds come in higher at around 6 grams per ounce.
That means snacking on a handful of either nut gives your body a meaningful protein boost without any animal products.
If you’ve ever asked yourself “do walnuts and almonds have protein?”, the short answer is a resounding yes.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how much protein walnuts and almonds have, why that protein matters, and how to work both nuts into your daily diet.
Let’s get into it.
Why Walnuts and Almonds Have Protein
Walnuts and almonds have protein because all nuts naturally contain some protein, and these two are no exception.
Here’s why that protein content is worth paying attention to.
1. Nuts Are Plant-Based Protein Packages
Every nut is essentially a seed designed to nourish a growing plant, which is why it packs protein, fat, and fiber together.
Walnuts and almonds have protein as part of that natural design, storing amino acids that support the tree’s early growth.
That same protein becomes available to you when you eat them.
2. Almonds Lead the Pack on Protein
Almonds have more protein per ounce than most tree nuts, including walnuts.
A single ounce of almonds gives you roughly 6 grams of protein, which is about 12% of your daily value.
That’s why almonds show up in so many protein-focused snack mixes and energy bars.
3. Walnuts Hold Their Own
Walnuts have protein too, just a bit less than almonds at around 4.3 grams per ounce.
They also bring a hefty dose of omega-3 fatty acids, a combination that makes them a favorite among people eating plant-based diets.
So while almonds edge out walnuts on protein, walnuts bring other nutrients that keep them valuable.
4. The Protein Comes With Fiber and Healthy Fats
One of the best things about the protein in walnuts and almonds is that it never travels alone.
Both nuts pair their protein with fiber and unsaturated fats, which help you feel full longer.
That combo makes walnuts and almonds a far more satisfying snack than a plain protein bar.
How Much Protein Do Walnuts and Almonds Have?
Walnuts and almonds have protein amounts that are easy to work into your day once you know the numbers.
1. Protein in a One-Ounce Serving
A one-ounce serving of almonds, about 23 nuts, delivers roughly 6 grams of protein.
A one-ounce serving of walnuts, about 14 halves, delivers around 4.3 grams of protein.
So a small handful of either gets you well on your way to a protein-rich snack.
2. Protein in a Quarter Cup
If you measure by volume, a quarter cup of almonds has about 7 grams of protein.
A quarter cup of walnuts has roughly 5 grams of protein.
That’s a useful measurement to remember when you’re tossing nuts into oatmeal or salads.
3. Protein Across a Whole Day
Two ounces of almonds spread across the day gives you around 12 grams of protein.
Add an ounce of walnuts and you’ve tacked on another 4 grams or so.
Both nuts make it easy to build up protein without eating heavy meals.
How to Add Walnuts and Almonds to Your Diet
Since walnuts and almonds have protein, the only question left is how to eat more of them.
Here are simple ways to work both into your routine.
1. Use Them as Everyday Snacks
Keep a small container of almonds in your bag for an easy protein snack on the go.
Walnuts work just as well, and pairing either with a piece of fruit rounds out the nutrition.
2. Sprinkle Them Into Meals
Crushed almonds add a protein-rich crunch to yogurt, cereal, or roasted vegetables.
Chopped walnuts do the same for salads, pasta, and stir-fries.
This is one of the easiest ways to boost protein when walnuts and almonds are already in your pantry.
3. Blend Them Into Smoothies or Butter
Toss a scoop of almonds or walnuts into your morning smoothie for a creamy protein lift.
You can also make homemade almond or walnut butter and spread it on toast.
4. Watch Your Portions
Both nuts are calorie-dense, so a small handful goes a long way.
Stick to about one ounce per sitting if you’re watching your calorie intake.
That way you still get the protein from walnuts and almonds without overdoing it.
So, Do Walnuts and Almonds Have Protein?
Walnuts and almonds do have protein, and both deserve a spot in your daily eats.
Almonds bring the bigger protein punch at around 6 grams per ounce, while walnuts offer about 4.3 grams plus a dose of omega-3s.
Either way, walnuts and almonds have protein that pairs beautifully with fiber and healthy fats.
Toss them in your breakfast, blend them into smoothies, or simply snack on a handful, and you’ll be getting this plant-based protein with almost no effort.