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This Christmas cranberry honey butter is my secret weapon for making ordinary breads feel festive and special during the holidays. It spreads easily and adds a perfect balance of sweet and tangy that turns toast or warm rolls into a real treat.
I first mixed this butter when unexpected guests arrived one chilly December evening. It saved the day and became a holiday tradition in no time.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: One cup of unsalted butter softened to room temperature for easy mixing and silky texture
- Cranberry sauce: Half a cup of cranberry sauce, either homemade or store-bought, to give vibrant color and tart flavor. Using a fresh, fruity cranberry sauce without too much added sugar works best.
- Honey: A quarter cup of honey brings natural sweetness that complements the cranberries without overpowering
- Vanilla extract: One teaspoon of vanilla extract adds warmth and depth
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the flavors perfectly
Instructions
- Soften the Butter:
- Make sure your unsalted butter is at room temperature so it blends smoothly and evenly with the other ingredients without lumps
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, cranberry sauce, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a spatula or electric mixer on low speed. Mix until everything is fully incorporated and the texture is creamy and spreadable
- Taste and Adjust:
- Give it a little taste and decide if you want more honey for sweetness or more cranberry sauce for extra tang. This step lets you personalize the butter to your favorite holiday balance
- Chill:
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or airtight container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the butter firm up for easier spreading
- Serve:
- Spread it warm biscuits, toast, pancakes, or even muffins. It is particularly lovely on fresh baked breads still a little warm from the oven
My favorite part is the cranberry sauce’s bright pop that tastes like holiday magic in every bite. I remember making this with my mom one Christmas morning to spread on homemade scones. It brought us joy and a cozy feeling that lingers every year since.
Storage tips
Store this butter tightly covered in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to two weeks and can be brought to room temperature before serving for a softer spread. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is possible but texture may change slightly when thawed.
Ingredient swaps
Try swapping honey for maple syrup if you want a slightly earthier sweetness. Orange zest adds a bright citrus note if you want to jazz it up further. A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg gives it a warm spice vibe perfect for winter breakfasts.
Serving ideas
Spread on warm biscuits or scones freshly baked for holiday brunches. Use as a flavorful topping on pancakes or waffles instead of syrup. Try melting a dollop over roasted sweet potatoes or winter squash for a sweet savory twist.
This cranberry honey butter will brighten up your holiday breakfasts and make any bread feel special every time.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of butter is best for this spread?
Use unsalted butter softened to room temperature for creamy texture and control over saltiness.
- → Can I substitute store-bought cranberry sauce?
Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce works well and can save time while maintaining the spread’s vibrant flavor.
- → How long should the butter mixture chill?
Chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and achieve a firm, spreadable consistency.
- → Are there any suggested flavor additions?
A pinch of cinnamon or some orange zest can add warm and zesty undertones, enhancing the overall profile.
- → How should this spread be stored?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to two weeks.