Bookmark
This festive cranberry honey butter brings the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors to your holiday table. The vibrant red hue makes it not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to any Christmas breakfast or brunch spread.
I first created this butter for a Christmas morning brunch and it's become our family tradition. My children now insist that Santa needs cranberry butter with his cookies instead of plain butter!
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter softened to room temperature for the smoothest texture and cleanest flavor foundation
- Cranberry sauce provides that signature holiday flavor and gorgeous color whether homemade or quality store bought
- Honey adds natural sweetness and a subtle floral note that balances the tart cranberries beautifully
- Vanilla extract brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile look for pure extract for best results
- Pinch of salt essential for enhancing all the flavors and creating balance
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soften the Butter
- Allow your butter to come completely to room temperature for about an hour before starting. Properly softened butter should yield easily to gentle pressure but still hold its shape. This crucial first step ensures your compound butter will have the perfect creamy consistency without any lumps.
- Mix Ingredients
- Combine all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl using a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes. Start slowly to prevent splattering then increase speed once ingredients begin incorporating. The color will transform into a beautiful pink hue as you mix. Continue until the mixture becomes light fluffy and evenly colored throughout.
- Taste and Adjust
- Take a small sample on a spoon and let it melt slightly on your tongue. This is the moment to perfect your butter by adding more honey for sweetness or extra cranberry for tartness. Remember flavors will meld and intensify slightly during chilling so subtle adjustments are best.
- Chill
- Transfer your finished butter into a decorative container using a silicone spatula to get every last bit. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon for an attractive presentation. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes though overnight is ideal for maximum flavor development.
- Serve
- Remove from refrigerator about 10 minutes before serving to allow for easier spreading. Place on your table with a dedicated butter knife for an elegant presentation that guests will appreciate.
Bookmark
The cranberry sauce is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered that using a chunky homemade version with whole berries creates delightful bursts of flavor in every bite. Last Christmas my grandmother tried it and declared it better than her famous cranberry relish a compliment I'll treasure forever.
Perfect Pairings
This cranberry honey butter transforms ordinary bread into something extraordinary. Try it slathered on warm biscuits where it melts into every nook and cranny creating pockets of sweet tangy goodness. For a truly indulgent experience spread it on toasted brioche or croissants. The butter also makes a surprising addition to pancakes or waffles replacing syrup for a less sweet breakfast option.
Gifting Ideas
Transform this cranberry honey butter into charming homemade gifts that friends and family will appreciate. Spoon the finished butter into small mason jars or decorative containers leaving about half an inch of space at the top. Cover with a circle of parchment paper before securing the lid then decorate with festive ribbon and a handwritten tag with serving suggestions. For an extra special touch include a loaf of homemade bread or package of gourmet crackers alongside your butter gift.
Storage Tips
To maintain optimal freshness store your cranberry honey butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to two weeks. For longer storage freeze portions in ice cube trays then transfer the frozen butter cubes to a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to three months. This method allows you to thaw only what you need. When ready to use again allow frozen butter to thaw overnight in the refrigerator rather than using the microwave which can cause separation.
Recipe Q&A
- → How long does cranberry honey butter last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, cranberry honey butter typically lasts 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. For best quality and flavor, use within the first week.
- → Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter instead of unsalted, but you should omit the additional pinch of salt in the recipe. The final spread will have a slightly saltier profile, which some people prefer.
- → What type of cranberry sauce works best?
Both homemade and store-bought cranberry sauce work well. Whole berry sauce adds texture, while smooth cranberry sauce creates a more uniform spread. For the most vibrant flavor, choose a high-quality cranberry sauce without excessive sweeteners.
- → Can I freeze cranberry honey butter?
Yes, cranberry honey butter freezes well for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container with a piece of parchment paper pressed against the surface to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
- → What can I serve with cranberry honey butter besides bread?
Beyond toast and biscuits, cranberry honey butter is delicious on pancakes, waffles, muffins, scones, cornbread, and sweet potato dishes. It also makes an excellent topping for baked brie or as a flavorful addition to a holiday cheese board.
- → Can I make this without a mixer?
Absolutely! While a hand mixer makes the process faster, you can use a fork or wooden spoon to blend the ingredients. Just ensure your butter is very soft (but not melted) for easier mixing by hand.