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Rustic Cranberry Honey Butter Recipe

4.6 from 145 reviews

Rustic Cranberry Honey Butter is a delightful spread combining softened unsalted butter with tart dried cranberries, sweet honey, and a hint of orange zest. This easy-to-make butter log, chilled to firm perfection, adds a luscious and festive touch to toast, biscuits, pancakes, or holiday rolls.

Ingredients

Scale

Butter Base

  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

Mix-ins

  • ⅓ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a twist)
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (optional, if using unsalted butter)
  • Zest of ½ an orange (optional, for a citrus touch)

Instructions

  1. Soften & Prep: Allow the unsalted butter to soften at room temperature until it is easily spreadable. Meanwhile, finely chop the dried cranberries to ensure they incorporate smoothly into the butter.
  2. Mix it Up: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, finely chopped cranberries, and orange zest if using. Add the sea salt if desired. Stir thoroughly using a spatula or a hand mixer until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is soft and golden.
  3. Shape the Log: Place a sheet of parchment paper flat on your work surface. Spoon the butter mixture down the center of the parchment in a line. Using the parchment, roll the butter into a tight log shape, twisting the ends like a candy wrapper to secure it.
  4. Chill: Refrigerate the butter log for at least 2 hours or until it firms up enough to slice. For quicker chilling, freeze the log for 30 minutes and then transfer it to the refrigerator.
  5. Serve or Gift: Once firm, slice the butter into rounds. Spread on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or holiday rolls for a flavorful touch. Keep wrapped and refrigerated; the butter will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Notes

  • Using maple syrup instead of honey provides a unique flavor variation.
  • The orange zest is optional but adds a fresh citrus aroma that complements the cranberries.
  • Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for easy mixing.
  • The butter can be frozen for longer storage but is best consumed within one week refrigerated.
  • Adjust the salt quantity based on whether your butter is salted or unsalted.

Keywords: cranberry butter, honey butter, holiday spread, scented butter, festive butter, cranberry honey butter recipe