Strawberry Compound Butter: A Burst of Sweet & Creamy Flavor
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Strawberry Compound Butter
The concept of compound butter is rooted in French cuisine, where chefs would blend softened butter with herbs, spices, or other ingredients to create flavorful accompaniments. Over time, home cooks adopted the technique, experimenting with unique combinations. This strawberry version celebrates seasonal produce, making it a refreshing addition to any meal. Whether slathered on warm bread or paired with grilled fish, it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with minimal effort.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, desserts, or savory dishes.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness or add herbs/spices for variety.
- Impressive Presentation: Roll it into a log for a restaurant-quality touch.
Variations
- Savory Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for a herby-sweet combination.
- Citrus Zest: Mix in lemon or orange zest for a tangy kick.
- Spiced Version: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Berry Blend: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry butter.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store for up to 2 days (best for immediate use).
- Refrigerator: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and store for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze rolled logs in airtight bags for up to 3 months; slice as needed.
Leftovers
- Melt over pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal for a sweet topping.
- Use as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
- Blend into mashed potatoes for a fruity twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing to prevent watery butter.
How do I shape the butter?
Place softened butter on plastic wrap, roll into a log, and chill until firm.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Absolutely! Adjust sweetness based on your preference or omit entirely for savory uses.
What can I pair this butter with?
Try it on toast, scones, biscuits, seafood, or even corn on the cob!
Strawberry Compound Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (+ chilling time)
- Servings: 1 cup (about 8 servings)
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest for brightness
Directions
- In a medium bowl, mash the softened butter with a fork or spatula until smooth.
- Add the finely chopped strawberries, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.
- If desired, fold in lemon zest for extra freshness.
- Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Shape into a log by rolling tightly and twisting the ends. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Once set, slice and serve as needed. Store leftovers wrapped tightly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, ~2 tablespoons)
| Calories | 120 |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Protein | 1g |
Recipe Notes
- Pat dry chopped strawberries to remove excess moisture before mixing.
- For a smoother texture, puree the strawberries before adding them to the butter.
- Experiment with different sweeteners like agave or powdered sugar if preferred.
- If freezing, label the log with the date for easy tracking.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Compound Butter is a simple yet luxurious addition to your kitchen repertoire. With its vibrant color, sweet-tart flavor, and endless versatility, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting brunch, preparing a special dinner, or simply looking to elevate everyday meals, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the magic of homemade compound butter!
Leave a Comment