The Best Food Processor For Chopping Nuts, According To Rigorous Testing

Our pick: Ninja Food Processor, Professional Plus

The Ninja Professional Plus Food Processor (Model BN601) stands out as a high-performing and reliable kitchen appliance. After hands-on use for meal prep tasks ranging from chopping vegetables to mixing pizza dough, I found it impressively powerful and efficient. The 1000-peak-watt motor offers consistent, smooth processing, even when handling tougher ingredients like nuts or dense dough.

Its 9-cup capacity is perfect for preparing larger meals or batch cooking, and the Auto-iQ preset functions remove the guesswork from common tasks. Whether you're dicing onions, slicing cucumbers, or whipping up a dough, the machine delivers even, clean results. The sturdy construction and modern silver finish also make it a stylish addition to any countertop.

Pros

• Powerful 1000-watt motor handles tough ingredients

• 4 Auto-iQ presets for easy one-touch operation

• Large 9-cup bowl great for batch cooking

• Dishwasher-safe, BPA-free parts for easy cleanup

Cons

• Slightly noisy at full power

• Base unit is heavy for some users

The Ninja BN601 Food Processor is a professional-grade tool for home cooks who need both power and versatility. With smart features, easy cleaning, and a sleek design, it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to streamline their food prep routine. Highly recommended for busy kitchens.

Also great: Hamilton Beach Food Processor 

The Hamilton Beach 70730 Food Processor offers solid performance and practical features at a very accessible price point. After testing it across a variety of food prep tasks—from chopping onions and mincing garlic to shredding cheese and blending dips—it proved capable and convenient for daily kitchen use. The standout feature is the built-in bowl scraper, which allows you to keep ingredients moving without stopping the machine or opening the lid.

While the 450-watt motor isn’t as powerful as some high-end models, it handles most basic to moderate tasks well. The 10-cup capacity is generous for family meals, and the large feed chute minimizes the need for pre-cutting. It’s also easy to clean, with all removable parts being dishwasher safe and BPA-free.

Pros

• Built-in bowl scraper for added convenience

• 10-cup bowl accommodates large batches

• Two-speed control with pulse for versatility

• Affordable and easy to clean

Cons

• Less powerful motor (450W) compared to premium models

• Blade and disc storage not included

The Hamilton Beach 70730 is a practical choice for home cooks seeking a reliable food processor without breaking the bank. It’s user-friendly, easy to maintain, and equipped to handle most common kitchen prep tasks efficiently. A great value for everyday cooking needs.

Also great: KitchenAid KFC3516ER 3.5 Cup Food Chopper

The KitchenAid KFC3516ER 3.5 Cup Food Chopper is a small but mighty tool designed for quick and easy food prep. After putting it through its paces with everyday tasks—like making salsa, chopping garlic, and blending hummus—it’s clear that this mini chopper is ideal for small-batch needs. It’s especially convenient for those with limited counter space or anyone who wants a simple, efficient option for daily use.

Despite its compact size, the chopper delivers precise results with its two-speed and pulse settings. The drizzle basin is a nice touch, making it easier to create dressings and emulsified sauces. Cleanup is also quick, with dishwasher-safe parts and a smart cord wrap that helps keep things tidy.

Pros

• Compact design perfect for small kitchens

• Easy to use and clean with dishwasher-safe parts

• Drizzle basin for incorporating liquids while processing

• Reliable performance with two speeds and pulse

Cons

• Limited capacity (3.5 cups) not ideal for large batches

• Not suited for tougher ingredients like dough or nuts

The KitchenAid 3.5 Cup Food Chopper is a great companion for quick chopping, blending, and mixing. While it’s not a full-sized processor, it excels at what it’s designed for: convenience, speed, and simplicity. A perfect fit for small kitchens or everyday light prep.

Source: Amazon

Yes, you can use a food processor to chop nuts. Food processors are equipped with sharp blades and a powerful motor, making them suitable for chopping various ingredients, including nuts, into smaller pieces. Simply add the nuts to the food processor bowl and pulse the machine until you achieve the desired consistency.

Which food processor can grind nuts?

Many food processors can grind nuts effectively, especially those with powerful motors and sharp blades. Look for food processors with strong motor power and durable blades to ensure efficient grinding of nuts. Additionally, models with variable speed settings or pulse functions can offer better control over the grinding process.

What is the best method for chopping nuts?

The best method for chopping nuts depends on personal preference and the tools available. Some common methods for chopping nuts include:

• Using a food processor: Add the nuts to the food processor bowl and pulse until you achieve the desired consistency.
• Using a knife and cutting board: Chop the nuts manually with a sharp knife on a cutting board, using a rocking motion to achieve even chopping.
• Using a nut chopper or grinder: Specialty nut choppers or grinders can also be used to chop nuts into smaller pieces quickly and efficiently.

Can you use a food processor as a chopper?

Yes, you can use a food processor as a chopper. Food processors are versatile kitchen appliances capable of performing various food preparation tasks, including chopping, slicing, shredding, and mixing. Simply use the appropriate blade attachment and pulse or process the ingredients until you achieve the desired consistency.

What is the difference between a food processor, blender, and chopper?

• Food Processor: Food processors are versatile kitchen appliances designed for various food preparation tasks, including chopping, slicing, shredding, mixing, and pureeing ingredients. They typically come with different blade attachments and bowl sizes to handle a wide range of tasks efficiently.
• Blender: Blenders are primarily designed for blending and pureeing ingredients into smooth or semi-smooth textures, such as smoothies, soups, and sauces. They usually consist of a pitcher with rotating blades powered by an electric motor.
• Chopper: A chopper is a kitchen tool specifically designed for chopping or mincing ingredients into smaller pieces. It typically consists of a container or bowl with sharp blades operated manually or by a motorized mechanism. Choppers are often used for tasks like chopping vegetables, nuts, herbs, and fruits.

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If you're serious about chopping nuts quickly, evenly, and without the hassle, investing in a high-quality food processor is absolutely worth it. Whether you're prepping for baking, making nut butters, or just adding some crunch to your dishes, the right food processor can save you time and effort while delivering consistent results. From powerful motors to sharp blades and compact designs, the options we've covered offer something for every kitchen. Choose the one that best fits your needs and budget, and get ready to take your nut-chopping game to the next level.