Cranberry Butter: A Festive Spread Worth Celebrating
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your holiday spread, cranberry butter is the answer. With its rich, creamy texture and tangy-sweet flavor, this vibrant spread is a delightful twist on traditional cranberry sauces. It’s versatile, easy to make, and the perfect addition to your seasonal repertoire.
Let’s dive into what makes cranberry butter so special and how you can create this stunning treat in your kitchen.
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Jump to RecipeWhat Is Cranberry Butter?
Cranberry butter is a luscious, smooth blend of fresh or frozen cranberries sweetened and spiced to perfection. Think of it as a cross between fruit preserves and compound butter, with a bright, tart flavor that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory dishes.
Its vivid color makes it a showstopper, and its silky texture ensures it spreads effortlessly on toast, scones, biscuits, and more.
Why You’ll Love Cranberry Butter
- Flavorful & Unique: Combines the zing of cranberries with the creamy richness of butter.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory addition to roasted meats.
- Easy to Make: Requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores beautifully, making it ideal for gifting or holiday prep.
Ingredients Needed
To make cranberry butter, you’ll need:
- Cranberries (fresh or frozen): The star ingredient. Their natural tartness creates a balanced flavor.
- Sweetener: I use brown sugar but honey, or maple syrup work well also. Adjust to your preferred sweetness level.
- Orange Zest and Juice: Adds a citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries.
- Spices (optional): Cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, warm undertone.
Make It!
Measure Ingredients
- Add 24-oz bag (about 6 cups) cranberries to the Instant Pot or a saucepan.
- For fresh oranges, add zest of 2 oranges to pot. Juice oranges into a measuring cup and add enough water to make 1 cup (if not enough juice).
- Alternatively, add 1 cup orange juice if you don’t have fresh oranges.
- Add brown sugar and spices and mix until well combined.
Cook the Cranberries
- Place all ingredients into an Instant Pot and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Allow pressure to release naturally.
- Alternatively, simmer cranberry mixture in a sauce pan until the cranberries burst and form a thick sauce (about 10-15 minutes).
Blend Until Smooth
Allow the cranberry mixture to cool slightly, then blend it until smooth and creamy using a blender or immersion blender.
Strain
Strain the cranberry mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any fibrous bits. This results in a smooth, velvety butter.
Adjust the Flavor
- Taste and add more sweetener or a pinch more spice if desired. This recipe is slightly tart, and I add a tablespoon of honey for a perfect balance. Add sweetener to yours if desired for your perfect taste!
Store & Chill
- Transfer the cranberry butter to an airtight container or jar. I like to use these 4-oz mason jars, especially when gifting. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Creative Ways to Use Cranberry Butter
Cranberry butter isn’t just for spreading on bread—it’s a versatile addition to your kitchen. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- On Breakfast Favorites: Spread it on pancakes, waffles, or muffins for a fruity twist.
- With Cheese Boards: Pair it with sharp cheddar, brie, or goat cheese for a sophisticated appetizer.
- As a Glaze: Spread it over roasted vegetables or use it as a glaze for baked ham or turkey.
- For Desserts: Swirl it into cheesecake batter or drizzle over pound cake for a festive flair.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Butter
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality matters! A good butter base ensures a creamy, rich spread.
- Strain for Extra Smoothness: If you prefer a super-smooth texture, strain the cooked cranberry mixture after blending.
- Gift It: Pour cranberry butter into decorative jars, add a festive ribbon, and you have a thoughtful homemade holiday gift.
Why Cranberry Butter Belongs on Your Table
Cranberry butter is more than just a condiment—it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Its vibrant color, tangy-sweet profile, and creamy texture make it a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or looking for a unique homemade gift, cranberry butter is sure to impress.
So grab those cranberries, whip up a batch, and let this festive spread bring a little extra joy to your table this season.
Cranberry Butter Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot OR large sauce pan
- measuring cups/spoons
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (about a 24-oz bag)
- 2 oranges and zest OR 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
- Add 24-oz bag (about 6 cups) cranberries to the Instant Pot or a saucepan.
- For fresh oranges, add zest of 2 oranges to pot. Juice oranges into a measuring cup and add enough water to make 1 cup (if not enough juice).
- Alternatively, add 1 cup orange juice if you don't have fresh oranges.
- Add brown sugar and spices and mix until well combined.
- Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Allow pressure to release naturally.
- Alternatively, simmer cranberry mixture in a sauce pan until the cranberries burst and form a thick sauce (about 10-15 minutes).
- Allow the cranberry mixture to cool slightly, then blend it until smooth and creamy using a blender or immersion blender.
- Strain the cranberry mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any fibrous bits. This results in a smooth, velvety butter.
- Taste and add more sweetener or a pinch more spice if desired. This recipe is slightly tart, and I add a tablespoon of honey for a perfect balance. Add sweetener to yours if desired for your perfect taste!
- Transfer the cranberry butter to an airtight container or jar. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
