Cranberries have always been a cherished part of my family’s holiday traditions. Growing up, I can vividly remember the aroma of simmering cranberry sauce filling our home each Thanksgiving. The tart, yet subtly sweet flavor was the perfect complement to the savory dishes on our table. As I got older, I developed an even deeper appreciation for the versatility of this ruby-red fruit. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Cranberry Butter recipe with you – it’s a game-changer that’s bound to become a new household staple.
Table of Contents
Why This Cranberry Butter Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cranberry Butter
This Cranberry Butter is truly something special. The secret lies in the perfect balance of flavors – the tartness of the cranberries is expertly mellowed by the richness of the butter, creating a spread that’s both indulgent and refreshing. What’s more, this recipe yields a generous 12 servings, so you can enjoy it for days (or share it with friends and family!).
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Cranberry Butter, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Together, these components come together to create a spread that’s bursting with flavor.
Step-by-Step Cranberry Butter Instructions
Preparing Your Cranberry Butter
This recipe takes 22 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 12 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a medium saucepan, a wooden spoon, and a food processor or blender to bring this Cranberry Butter to life.
1- Start by combining the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, and orange zest in the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 12 minutes until the cranberries have softened and released their juices.
2- Carefully transfer the cooked cranberry mixture to a food processor or blender, and blend until smooth. Be sure to scrape down the sides as needed.
3- Add the unsalted butter and a pinch of salt, and pulse until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the Cranberry Butter has a silky, spreadable consistency.
4- Look for the Cranberry Butter to have a deep, vibrant red color and a glossy sheen.
5- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a touch more sugar for sweetness or a pinch of salt for balance.
6- Transfer the finished Cranberry Butter to a jar or airtight container, and let it cool completely before serving or storing.
Pro Tips for Success
For the best results, be sure to use fresh, high-quality cranberries. Avoid overcooking the berries, as you want them to retain a bit of their signature tart bite. And when blending, take it slow to achieve the perfect creamy texture. Lastly, don’t be afraid to get creative with add-ins like cinnamon, vanilla, or even a splash of brandy for a festive twist.
Serving and Storing Your Cranberry Butter
Perfect Pairings for Cranberry Butter
This Cranberry Butter is incredibly versatile – it’s the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving turkey, but it also shines as a spread for toast, scones, or even pancakes. Try it alongside a cup of hot apple cider for a cozy autumn treat. And with each serving being just 2 tablespoons, this 12-serving recipe is sure to please a crowd.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Cranberry Butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer-term storage, it also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option for busy holiday seasons or whenever you need a quick, flavorful spread on hand.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cranberry Butter
Creative Cranberry Butter Variations
While this classic Cranberry Butter recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, the fun doesn’t have to stop there. Try stirring in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch, or swirl in a touch of maple syrup for a cozy, autumnal twist. You can also experiment with different citrus zests, such as lemon or lime, to complement the tartness of the cranberries.
Making Cranberry Butter Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, this Cranberry Butter can easily be adapted. To make it gluten-free, simply ensure your butter is certified gluten-free. For a vegan version, swap the butter for your favorite plant-based alternative. And to cut down on carbs, you can reduce the amount of sugar used – just be mindful that this may result in a more tart, less sweet spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as frozen berries may release more liquid.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 12 servings, with each serving being 2 tablespoons.
Q: Can I make Cranberry Butter ahead of time?
A: Yes, Cranberry Butter is a great make-ahead option. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How do I know when the Cranberry Butter is done?
A: The Cranberry Butter is ready when it has a deep, vibrant red color and a glossy, spreadable consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cranberry Butter
- Total Time: 22
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Cranberry Butter is a delightful spread that combines the tart, fruity flavor of cranberries with the richness of creamy butter. This versatile condiment can be used as a topping for breads, scones, and pancakes, or as a dip for fresh fruits and vegetables.
Ingredients
– 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. 1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
2. 2. Remove the cranberry mixture from the heat and let it cool completely.
3. 3. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. 4. Add the cooled cranberry mixture, orange zest, and cinnamon to the whipped butter. Beat until well combined.
5. 5. Transfer the Cranberry Butter to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
– For a smoother texture, you can puree the cooked cranberry mixture before adding it to the butter.
– Cranberry Butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
– Try serving Cranberry Butter with warm breads, scones, pancakes, or as a dip for fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Dips, Boards & Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Cranberry Butter recipe is a true delight, perfectly balancing the tartness of cranberries with the richness of butter. Whether you enjoy it on toast, scones, or alongside your Thanksgiving feast, it’s sure to become a new household favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think! I can’t wait to hear how you incorporate this versatile spread into your culinary creations.
