Compound butters are the secret weapon every home cook should have on hand. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something that instantly elevates everything from steak and roasted vegetables to pancakes and toast. This collection has a flavor-packed option for every occasion.
Take it up a notch and start out by making your own homemade butter.
Why My Recipe
- Cover every flavor craving with sweet, savory, and flavor-packed options all in one place.
- Perfect for prepping ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer for quick boosts of flavor.
- Transform simple dishes like steak, pancakes, veggies, and toast into something extra.
These are incredibly easy to make ahead of time, which means you’ve got a ready-to-go flavor boost waiting in your fridge or freezer whenever you need it. From honey butter that melts perfectly over warm cornbread, to a zesty cowboy compound butter that’s perfect for grilled meats. Each of these six butters brings something special to the table. Let’s walk through each one and how to use it.
From Sweet…
Sweet, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent, honey butter is a classic for a reason. Spread it over cornbread, warm biscuits, or a stack of pancakes. Keep it on hand for brunch or cozy weekend breakfasts.
This one’s all about decadence. Cream cheese adds a slight tang that pairs perfectly with the sweet cinnamon. Try it on toast, bagels, waffles, or anything you’d usually top with cream cheese or butter.
Fresh raspberries give this butter a gorgeous color and a burst of bright, fruity flavor. It’s perfect for spreading over muffins, scones, or waffles. A great way to bring something extra to your breakfast or brunch spread.
Warm, cozy, and packed with cinnamon-sugar goodness, this butter is a go-to for breakfast and brunch. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, bagels, English muffins, or sweet rolls. A quick way to add anextra touch to any morning.
…To Savory!
Savory and herb-packed, this butter is designed to melt over hot, just-cooked meat. It’s ideal for resting steaks, pork chops, or even chicken breasts. As it melts, it creates a built-in finishing sauce that’s loaded with flavor.
Bold, smoky, and loaded with flavor, this butter pulls in spices, garlic, and a touch of heat. It’s perfect for grilled meats, baked potatoes, or corn on the cob. This one brings serious barbecue vibes to the table.
Simple, classic, and incredibly versatile. Use it on everything from garlic bread to roasted veggies, or melt it over pasta and rice. It’s one of those staples that turns basic dishes into something crave-worthy.
Shaping Compound Butters
Shaping compound butter is easy and makes it simple to use and serve. After mixing your ingredients together, you can shape it in one of these three ways:
Log Method: Scoop the butter mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Roll it into a log, twisting the ends to seal. Chill in the fridge until firm, then slice into rounds as needed. This is a great option for meal prep and makes it easy to serve individual portions.
Scoop into Ramekins or Jars: For serving at the table or gifting, spoon the butter into ramekins, small bowls, or glass jars. Smooth the top with a spoon or small spatula. This method works especially well for sweet butters.
Pipe for Presentation: If you want a fancier look, scoop the butter into a piping bag fitted with a large tip and pipe it into decorative swirls onto wax paper or serving dishes. Chill until firm before using. This is a fun option for holiday spreads or dinner parties.
Tips for Gifting
Homemade compound butters make thoughtful, easy gifts for holidays, housewarmings, or hostess thank-yous. Spoon the butter into small glass jars or ramekins, smooth the tops, and seal tightly. Add a ribbon and a handwritten label with the flavor and a use suggestion (like “Try me on toast!” or “Perfect for steaks”).
Keep refrigerated until ready to gift, and if you’re giving a butter with perishable ingredients like fresh fruit or herbs, it’s best for short-term gifting only.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerator Storage: Keep compound butters in an airtight container, wrapped log, or sealed jar in the fridge. Most will stay fresh for up to 1 week, depending on the mix-ins. Butters with fresh herbs or fruit should be used sooner, ideally within 3 to 5 days.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage, freeze your compound butter. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can also freeze it in smaller portions using silicone ice cube trays. Most compound butters will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Use your compound butters on…
Compound butters add an instant upgrade to so many dishes. Sweet options are great to spread on toast, muffins, pancakes, waffles, cornbread, bagels, and even French toast. Savory options are great to melt over grilled steaks, chicken, baked potatoes, or corn on the cob.
You can also set out a trio of butters on a platter for a beautiful and flavorful addition to a brunch, holiday meal, or dinner party.
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