Cranberry Honey Orange Butter Recipe
Introduction
Cranberry butter is a delightful and flavorful spread that combines the richness of butter with the tartness of dried cranberries and a hint of orange zest. It’s perfect for adding a festive touch to your breakfast or snacks, especially during the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/3 cup finely chopped dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, finely chopped dried cranberries, honey, grated orange zest, and kosher salt.
- Step 2: Beat the mixture until all ingredients are well blended and smooth.
- Step 3: Transfer the cranberry butter into an airtight container, or shape it into a log and wrap tightly in parchment paper.
- Step 4: Store the butter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Tips & Variations
- For a softer texture, allow the butter to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before spreading.
- Swap dried cranberries for other dried fruits like cherries or apricots to customize the flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
- Use fresh orange zest rather than dried for a brighter citrus flavor.
Storage
Store cranberry butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in a tightly wrapped log for up to 3 months. Allow frozen butter to thaw in the refrigerator before use, and bring to room temperature for easier spreading.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of kosher salt butter?
Yes, using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level. Just be sure to add the 1/8 teaspoon of kosher salt as specified for flavor balance.
Is it necessary to finely chop the dried cranberries?
Finely chopping the cranberries helps distribute them evenly throughout the butter and makes the spread easier to use. However, if you prefer larger pieces for texture, you can chop them coarsely.
PrintCranberry Honey Orange Butter Recipe
This Cranberry Butter is a deliciously sweet and tangy spread made by blending softened butter with dried cranberries, honey, orange zest, and a pinch of kosher salt. Perfect for adding a festive touch to toast, muffins, or holiday breads, this easy-to-make butter combines creamy richness with fruity brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup (serves 8 as a spread) 1x
- Category: Spread
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/3 cup finely chopped dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, add the softened butter, finely chopped dried cranberries, honey, grated orange zest, and kosher salt.
- Mix Until Blended: Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon, beat all the ingredients together until they are well combined and the mixture is smooth with evenly distributed cranberries and zest.
- Shape and Store: Transfer the cranberry butter into an airtight container for storage, or shape it into a log and roll it tightly in parchment paper.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: Store the prepared cranberry butter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for up to 3 months to maintain its freshness.
Notes
- Use unsalted butter if you prefer to control the salt level more precisely.
- Honey adds natural sweetness but can be adjusted or substituted with maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Finely chopping the dried cranberries ensures an even texture and easier spreading.
- Orange zest adds a bright citrus note, enhancing the flavor; fresh zest is best.
- Perfect accompaniment to warm breads, muffins, and crackers during holiday seasons.
- Before using from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Keywords: cranberry butter, holiday spread, fruit butter, cranberry honey butter, festive butter, citrus butter, easy spread
