Five Ways to Flavor Butter

Flavored butter, also known as compound butter, is a simple way to elevate your dishes with a burst of flavor. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, melting it over vegetables, or using it to finish a steak, these butter variations are sure to impress. Here, we explore five different ways to flavor butter, including a savory-sweet maple bacon butter that combines the richness of bacon with the sweetness of maple syrup.

Base Recipe for Flavored Butter

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

This is the base for all your flavored butter variations. Make sure the butter is at room temperature to make it easier to mix with your chosen ingredients.

1. Maple Bacon Butter

This sweet and savory butter is perfect for spreading on pancakes, waffles, or biscuits. The smoky bacon combined with sweet maple syrup makes for an irresistible flavor combination.

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Adds sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a smoky, salty crunch.
• 1 tablespoon bacon grease: Enhances the bacon flavor and adds a touch of richness.

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with maple syrup, crumbled bacon, and bacon grease.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Transfer the butter to a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap, shape it into a log, and refrigerate until firm.
4. Use as a spread on breakfast items, or melt over roasted vegetables for a sweet and savory finish.

2. Garlic Herb Butter

Garlic herb butter is a classic choice for enhancing the flavor of bread, steaks, or roasted vegetables. It’s a versatile butter that adds a burst of freshness and a touch of luxury to any dish.

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust, savory flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a bright, fresh note.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped: Provides an earthy, aromatic flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor.

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Shape the butter into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
4. Use this butter to enhance garlic bread, sauté vegetables, or top a grilled steak.

3. Honey Cinnamon Butter

This sweet and aromatic butter is perfect for breakfast foods like toast, muffins, or pancakes. The combination of honey and cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness to every bite.

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons honey: Adds natural sweetness and a floral note.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice.

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with honey and cinnamon.
2. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
3. Shape the butter into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
4. Spread on warm toast, pancakes, or use as a sweet topping for roasted sweet potatoes.

4. Chili Lime Butter

This zesty and slightly spicy butter is excellent for adding a kick to grilled corn, seafood, or roasted vegetables. The combination of chili and lime gives a vibrant, tangy flavor.

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a mild heat and earthy flavor.
• Zest of 1 lime: Provides a fresh, citrusy note.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Adds tanginess and enhances the chili flavor.
• Salt to taste: Balances the flavors.

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter with chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, and salt.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Shape the butter into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
4. Use this butter on grilled corn, fish, or chicken for a flavorful kick.

5. Blue Cheese and Chive Butter

This rich and tangy butter is perfect for steaks, burgers, or baked potatoes. The sharpness of blue cheese pairs beautifully with the mild onion flavor of chives.

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped: Provides a mild onion flavor and a touch of color.

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with blue cheese and chives.
2. Mix until evenly combined.
3. Shape the butter into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
4. Use this butter to top a juicy steak, melt over a burger, or spread on a baked potato.

Cook’s Notes & Tips

• Storage: Flavored butters can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
• Portioning: For easy use, you can portion the butter into small patties or cubes before refrigerating or freezing.
• Serving Suggestions: Flavored butters are perfect for spreading on bread, melting over grilled meats and vegetables, or enhancing sauces and pastas.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the additional salt in your flavoring ingredients. You may want to reduce or omit added salt.

2. How do I soften butter quickly?

To soften butter quickly, cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it on a low setting for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones. Use about 1/3 of the amount specified for fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

4. What other flavor combinations can I try?

You can experiment with different flavors such as lemon zest and dill for seafood, roasted garlic for a robust flavor, or even espresso powder for a unique twist.

5. How can I use flavored butter in cooking?

Flavored butter can be used in various ways, such as topping grilled meats, stirring into sauces, spreading on bread, or adding to roasted vegetables for extra flavor.

Elevate Your Dishes with Flavored Butter

Flavored butter is a simple yet impactful way to add depth and richness to your dishes. Whether you prefer sweet, savory, or spicy flavors, there’s a flavored butter combination that’s perfect for your culinary needs. Try out these recipes, experiment with your own flavorings, and enjoy the endless possibilities that flavored butter brings to your meals.