Delicious Cranberry Holiday Butter Recipe

Have you ever experienced the joy of spreading something uniquely festive on your morning toast? Picture this: a rich, creamy spread infused with the vibrant tartness of cranberries and the warmth of spices, transforming an ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary one. Cranberry Holiday Butter not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings an inviting aroma to your kitchen that resonates with the spirit of the season.

This delightful recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy breakfasts at home. The sweet-tart flavor pairs wonderfully with warm rolls, pancakes, or even served alongside a cheese platter. Imagine your guests’ faces lighting up as they taste this luxurious butter that celebrates the essence of the holidays. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that captures the essence of joy and togetherness during this special time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Holiday Butter

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort and just a few ingredients, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of sweet and tart cranberries with rich buttery goodness creates a flavor profile that embodies the spirit of the holidays.
• Versatile Use: Use it as a spread on breads, muffins or pancakes, or serve it as a topping for desserts like vanilla ice cream or cheesecake.

Ingredients for Cranberry Holiday Butter

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Unsalted Butter: Make sure to use room temperature butter so it mixes easily with other ingredients.
• Fresh Cranberries: Choose bright red cranberries for their tart flavor and beautiful color; frozen cranberries work too if fresh ones are unavailable.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar will balance the tartness of cranberries; you can adjust based on personal preference.
• Cinnamon: This warm spice adds depth to the flavor profile; feel free to add more if you love cinnamon.
• Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg enhances the overall warmth and complexity of flavors in this festive butter.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cranberry Holiday Butter

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Ensure your butter has softened at room temperature for easy mixing.

Step 2: Cook Cranberries

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries and sugar. Cook until the cranberries burst and become soft — this should take about 5-8 minutes.

Step 3: Mash Mixture

Once cooked, use a fork or potato masher to mash the cranberries into a chunky consistency. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine mashed cranberries with softened unsalted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until fully integrated.

Step 5: Chill Butter

Transfer your cranberry mixture onto parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape it into a log and refrigerate until firm — about one hour.

Step 6: Serve

Slice off pieces of your chilled cranberry butter when ready to serve. Transfer to plates alongside warm bread or pastries for enjoyment.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cranberries when possible; they yield better flavor than dried ones.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar based on how sweet you want your butter; tasting as you go helps find that perfect balance.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftover cranberry butter wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

With these simple steps and tips in mind, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable addition to your holiday table. Enjoy every bite.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Ingredients: When making Cranberry Holiday Butter, it’s crucial not to overmix the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a grainy texture that detracts from the butter’s creamy consistency. Instead, mix just until everything is combined. This ensures a smooth blend of flavors without compromising the texture. Remember, gentle mixing is key for achieving that luscious spreadability.
• Using Dried Cranberries Instead of Fresh: One common mistake is opting for dried cranberries instead of fresh. While dried cranberries have their charm, they lack the vibrant flavor and moisture that fresh cranberries provide. Fresh cranberries will enhance the overall taste of your Cranberry Holiday Butter, giving it a festive flair that dried versions simply cannot match.
• Not Allowing Butter to Soften: Another mistake many make is not allowing the butter to soften before mixing. Cold butter does not blend well with other ingredients and can lead to uneven distribution of flavors. Aim for room temperature butter; this guarantees a smooth blend and allows spices and cranberries to incorporate evenly into your Cranberry Holiday Butter.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Holiday Butter

This Cranberry Holiday Butter is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Freshly Baked Bread: Spread this delightful butter on warm, crusty bread rolls or slices of baguette for a festive touch. The tartness of the cranberry complements the richness of the butter beautifully.
• Pancakes and Waffles: Elevate your breakfast by topping pancakes or waffles with a dollop of Cranberry Holiday Butter. It adds a seasonal twist that guests will love.
• Cheese Boards: This butter makes an excellent addition to any cheese platter. Pair it with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a perfect balance of flavors.

FAQs about Cranberry Holiday Butter

What ingredients are in Cranberry Holiday Butter?

Cranberry Holiday Butter features simple yet flavorful ingredients. You will need unsalted butter, fresh or dried cranberries, powdered sugar, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. The combination brings out a rich taste that’s both sweet and tart. For best results, ensure your butter is softened at room temperature before mixing in the other ingredients. This allows everything to blend smoothly together, creating a creamy texture that’s easy to spread.

How should I store Cranberry Holiday Butter?

To maintain its freshness, store your Cranberry Holiday Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to two weeks when stored properly. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Simply scoop portions into freezer-safe containers or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best quality.

Can I make Cranberry Holiday Butter ahead of time?

Absolutely. Making Cranberry Holiday Butter ahead of time is not only convenient but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can prepare it up to five days prior to serving. Just keep it refrigerated until needed. If you’re planning for a holiday gathering, preparing this butter in advance will save you time on the day of your event.

What are some variations of Cranberry Holiday Butter?

There are many delicious ways to customize your Cranberry Holiday Butter. You can add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth during the holiday season. For a bit of crunch, consider mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. Alternatively, try incorporating different citrus zests like lemon or lime for a refreshing twist that complements the cranberries well.

Conclusion for Cranberry Holiday Butter

In summary, this delectable Cranberry Holiday Butter offers a festive burst of flavor that elevates any meal or occasion. With its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, it’s an ideal addition to your holiday gatherings. Whether you use it on baked goods, pancakes, or as part of a cheese board, its versatility shines through. Plus, you can easily store and even customize this recipe according to your taste preferences. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat with friends and family during the holiday season.

Print

Cranberry Holiday Butter

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Cranberry Holiday Butter is a delightful and festive spread that brings the joy of the season straight to your breakfast table. Infused with the tartness of fresh cranberries and a hint of warm spices, this creamy butter transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary treats. Perfect for slathering on warm rolls, pancakes, or as a topping for desserts, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a showstopper at any holiday gathering.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
• Category: Spread
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients ensuring the butter is softened.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries and sugar; cook until cranberries burst (5-8 minutes).
3. Mash the cooked cranberries with a fork until chunky.
4. In a bowl, mix mashed cranberries with softened butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined.
5. Shape into a log using parchment paper; refrigerate until firm (about 1 hour).
6. Once chilled, slice and serve alongside warm breads or pastries.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (14g)
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Adjust sugar to taste for desired sweetness. For added warmth, experiment by adding ginger or allspice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.