Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter
Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter is one of those simple yet magical holiday recipes that instantly elevates any breakfast or dinner table. The combination of creamy butter, sweet-tart cranberries, and fragrant orange zest creates a festive flavor that pairs beautifully with everything from warm rolls to fluffy pancakes. Here is a detailed, easy-to-follow, expanded version of the recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
- ¼ cup honey (use a good-quality floral honey if possible)
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh orange zest
- Pinch of salt (optional but enhances flavor)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cranberries
Start by finely chopping the dried cranberries. Smaller pieces blend more evenly into the butter and prevent large chewy bits. If you want, you can pulse them 2–3 times in a food processor. Avoid over processing, or they’ll turn into paste.
2. Soften the Butter Properly
For the best texture, the butter should be very soft, almost whipped naturally. Leave it at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you’re short on time, microwave it for 5–7 seconds—just enough to soften, not melt. Soft butter ensures smooth mixing and a creamy spread.
3. Combine All Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, add the softened butter, chopped cranberries, honey, orange zest, and salt. Using a spatula or hand mixer, whip everything together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and evenly pink from the cranberries. The orange zest should release a bright, citrusy aroma.
4. Taste and Fine-Tune
Taste a small amount. If you prefer it sweeter, add another teaspoon or two of honey. For more citrus punch, increase the orange zest. The optional pinch of salt helps balance everything and brings out the flavors more clearly.
5. Shape and Store
Transfer the mixture to a clean jar or form it into a log using parchment paper. To make a log, spoon the butter onto the paper, fold it over, and roll tightly. Twist the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least one hour so the flavors meld and the butter firms up.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this festive butter with warm dinner rolls, toast, muffins, pancakes, waffles, scones, or even cornbread. It also makes a wonderful edible gift—just pack it into a cute jar and tie with ribbon.
Storage
Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for 3 months.
Let me know if you want a cinnamon version, whipped version, or printable holiday label!