Maple Cranberry Butter

$- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional) You need fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe. Fresh ones burst with flavor, but frozen works just as well. Use unsalted butter to control the salt level. Pure maple syrup adds sweetness and a rich taste. Ground cinnamon gives warmth, while salt enhances all the flavors. Lemon juice adds a nice tang. You can include chopped pecans for extra crunch, but they are optional. If you want to swap ingredients, here are some ideas: - Use brown sugar instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness. - Coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free option. - Try a splash of orange juice instead of lemon for a fresh twist. - Any nut can work instead of pecans, like walnuts or almonds. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Washing cranberries: Start by rinsing your cranberries under cold water. This step removes dirt and ensures your butter tastes fresh. If you use fresh cranberries, check for any stems and remove them. - Softening butter correctly: To soften butter, leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you're in a hurry, cut it into small pieces. This helps it soften faster. Never microwave butter, as it can melt and ruin your spread. - Combining ingredients in a saucepan: In a small saucepan, mix the cranberries with lemon juice and a splash of water. This mixture helps the cranberries burst and soften during cooking. - Cooking time and stirring technique: Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst. This step creates a rich, flavorful base for your butter. - Using a blender vs. food processor: After cooking, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. A blender makes your butter very smooth. A food processor gives you the option to leave some chunks for texture. - Importance of chilling for flavor: Spoon the mixture into a bowl or jar. Cover it and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to blend well and helps the butter firm up. Enjoy this delicious spread on your favorite foods! To make the best maple cranberry butter, focus on texture. First, blend your cooked cranberries well with the butter. This step ensures a smooth and creamy spread. If you like some crunch, leave a few small chunks of cranberry. This adds fun and interest to each bite. Want to boost the flavor? Try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger. They give a warm kick to the butter. You can also use flavored syrups. Consider vanilla or even orange syrup for a twist. These small changes can make a big difference. Maple cranberry butter shines on many dishes. Spread it on warm toast or muffins for a tasty breakfast. It also pairs well with pancakes or waffles. You can even use it as a topping for oatmeal. Get creative! Consider using it in dessert recipes, like filling for pastries or topping for cheesecake. The options are endless! Pro Tips Use Fresh Cranberries: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh cranberries when in season. They provide a vibrant taste that enhances the butter. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can modify the amount of maple syrup. Start with less and add more to taste after blending. Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully. Presentation Matters: For a lovely presentation, serve the butter in a mason jar or decorative bowl, and garnish with a few whole cranberries or pecans on top. {{image_2}} You can have fun with your maple cranberry butter by using different nuts or seeds. Try walnuts or almonds for a new taste. You can also leave out the nuts if you prefer a smooth spread. Infusing your butter with other fruit flavors makes it even more exciting. Consider adding chopped apples or pears, which pair well with cranberries. You can even mix in some orange zest for a bright pop of flavor. For a vegan option, swap the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter spread. This way, you still enjoy a rich texture without dairy. If you want a low-sugar version, reduce the maple syrup. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. This keeps it sweet while cutting down on calories. During the holidays, add warm spices like nutmeg or ginger for a festive twist. These spices make the butter cozy and perfect for your winter meals. Incorporating seasonal fruits can also add a unique touch. In fall, try adding roasted pumpkin or squash for a rich flavor. In summer, mix in fresh berries for a bright flavor that shines. You can store maple cranberry butter in two main ways: in the fridge or the freezer. If you keep it in the fridge, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. The butter will be easy to spread right away. For longer storage, use the freezer. In the refrigerator, maple cranberry butter lasts about one to two weeks. You can tell it’s gone bad if it smells sour or has mold. Always check before using! If you have leftover maple cranberry butter, do not throw it away! Spread it on pancakes or waffles. You can also use it on toast or in sandwiches. Try mixing it into oatmeal for a sweet twist. This butter adds flavor to many dishes! Maple cranberry butter is a sweet and tangy spread made from cranberries, butter, and maple syrup. You can use it on toast, muffins, pancakes, or oatmeal. This spread adds a festive touch to your breakfast or snack. Yes, you can make maple cranberry butter ahead of time. To prep in advance, follow these steps: - Make the butter and chill it in the fridge for at least an hour. - Store it in a sealed jar or container. - It stays fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge. You can find maple cranberry butter at many grocery stores. Look for it in the spreads or specialty foods section. Some popular brands include Stonewall Kitchen and Trader Joe’s. You can also find it online from various retailers. In this post, we explored the tasty world of maple cranberry butter. We covered essential ingredients, easy steps to make it, and tips for the best flavors. You learned about variations and ways to store your butter for later use. This simple recipe offers room for creativity. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and uses. Your kitchen will welcome this spread, whether for breakfast or a holiday feast. Try it out, and let your taste buds enjoy!$

A delicious spread made with cranberries and maple syrup, perfect for toast and pancakes.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 7

Total Time 1 15

Course Condiment

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 100 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
0.25 cup pure maple syrup
0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.25 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
0.25 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse them under cold water and remove any stems. If using frozen, there's no need to thaw them.
Cook the Cranberries: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries with lemon juice and a splash of water. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until the cranberries burst and soften, stirring occasionally.
Blend the Mixture: Transfer the cooked cranberries to a blender or food processor. Add the softened butter, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. You can leave some small chunks of cranberry for texture if desired.
Incorporate Pecans: If using, fold in the chopped pecans gently with a spatula for added crunch.
Chill the Butter: Spoon the mixture into a bowl or decorative jar. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together and the butter to firm up.
Serve: Spread the maple cranberry butter on toast, muffins, pancakes, or use it as a topping for oatmeal.

Notes

Chill for at least an hour to enhance flavors.

Keyword butter, cranberry, maple, spread