Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cranberry honey butter is a wonderful mix of sweet and tart flavors, with a silky smooth texture that spreads effortlessly on your favorite baked goods. The combination of butter and honey gives it richness, while the cranberries add a pop of color and a bit of tangy freshness. It’s not just for holidays—this recipe is perfect for any time of year when you’re craving something both indulgent and refreshing. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and a bit of mixing.

Cranberry Honey Butter Delight

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup fresh cranberries (or cranberry sauce)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and honey. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat them together until smooth and creamy.
If using fresh cranberries, pulse them in a food processor a few times until they’re chopped into small pieces. If you’re using cranberry sauce, you can skip this step.
Add the cranberries, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt to the butter-honey mixture. Continue to mix until everything is well combined.
Taste the butter and adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed by adding more honey or salt.
Transfer the cranberry honey butter to a serving dish or jar, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes approximately 1 cup of cranberry honey butter (about 8-10 servings, depending on usage)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes or longer for better flavor infusion

Variations

Add nuts: You can stir in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Use flavored honey: If you prefer, experiment with flavored honey such as orange blossom or lavender for a unique twist.
Infuse with herbs: For a savory take, try infusing the butter with rosemary or thyme, which pairs well with the cranberries.

Storage/Reheating

Store cranberry honey butter in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving, as it may harden in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cranberry honey butter for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh cranberries?

Yes, you can substitute dried cranberries. Just chop them finely before mixing them into the butter. Keep in mind that dried cranberries are sweeter, so you might want to adjust the honey amount accordingly.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

While unsalted butter is ideal to control the seasoning, salted butter can work if you’re in a pinch. Just be mindful to skip or reduce the pinch of salt added to the recipe.

Is it necessary to chill the butter before serving?

Chilling the cranberry honey butter helps the flavors meld together. However, if you can’t wait, it’s fine to serve it immediately, though the taste may be slightly less developed.

How long can I store cranberry honey butter?

In the refrigerator, cranberry honey butter will stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you want to store it longer, freezing is a great option.

Can I make cranberry honey butter in advance?

Yes, cranberry honey butter is great to make ahead. Prepare it and store it in the fridge for at least a few hours or up to a week before serving.

Can I make this recipe without honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup if you prefer a different sweetener. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor.

What can I serve cranberry honey butter with?

Cranberry honey butter is fantastic on warm rolls, scones, muffins, toast, pancakes, or waffles. It also makes a great addition to a cheese board or as a topping for roasted meats.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, cranberry honey butter is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no animal products other than butter.

Can I add more spices to the cranberry honey butter?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for a seasonal kick, especially around the holidays.

How can I make cranberry honey butter dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, and check that your honey is sourced from a vegan-friendly brand if needed.

Conclusion

Cranberry Honey Butter Delight is a versatile, easy-to-make spread that elevates any meal or snack. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy morning with your favorite toast, this creamy and tangy spread will add a delightful touch. With a few simple ingredients, it’s a quick way to bring joy to your kitchen and your taste buds.