How to Make Homemade Garlic Herb Butter: An Easy and Delicious Spread

Homemade Butter is a simple, satisfying kitchen project that delivers rich, creamy results far superior to store-bought versions. This flavored butter recipe combines fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon zest for a versatile spread that adds instant flavor to bread, vegetables, grilled meats, and more. All you need is fresh cream and a few pantry staples to create a gourmet touch for your meals.

What Is Homemade Butter?

Homemade Butter is fresh butter made from heavy cream by whipping it until the fat solids separate from the buttermilk. This traditional method dates back centuries, long before commercial butter became available. By adding fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest, you can create a flavored compound butter that elevates even the simplest dishes. Spread it on warm bread, melt it over grilled steak, or toss it with steamed vegetables for a burst of fresh flavor.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• There are so many reasons to fall in love with making your own Homemade Butter:
• Incredibly easy to make with just cream and a mixer.
• Customizable with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
• Rich, creamy texture with no additives or preservatives.
• A perfect way to use up fresh herbs from your garden.
• Makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Cooking Tips

1. Use high-quality, fresh heavy cream for the best flavor and texture.
2. Whip the cream until it visibly separates into butter and buttermilk; be patient as this takes a few minutes.
3. Rinse the butter thoroughly to remove any remaining buttermilk and extend its shelf life.
4. For a milder garlic flavor, use half a clove; for a bolder taste, use a whole clove.
5. The butter will firm up beautifully after chilling in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, a hand mixer works very well. The process might take a few minutes longer, but the results are the same.

What is the purpose of rinsing the butter?

Rinsing removes leftover buttermilk, which helps prevent the butter from spoiling too quickly.

How long does Homemade Butter last?

Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 1 month. For longer storage, you can freeze it.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs give the best flavor and texture, but you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Reduce the quantity, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What can I do with the leftover buttermilk?

Save it for baking! It is excellent in pancakes, muffins, biscuits, and other baked goods.

How to Store

Wrap the Homemade Butter in parchment paper or plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Always use clean utensils to prevent contamination.

How to Freeze

Homemade Butter freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in parchment paper, then in a layer of foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

How to Make Homemade Butter With Herbs

Step 1

Step 1

Start by pouring the fresh heavy cream into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Begin whipping at high speed. After a few minutes, you will notice the cream thickening and eventually separating into yellow butter solids and a milky liquid known as buttermilk.

Start by pouring the fresh heavy cream into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Begin whipping at high speed. After a few minutes, you will notice the cream thickening and eventually separating into yellow butter solids and a milky liquid known as buttermilk.

If you do not have a stand mixer, an electric hand mixer works perfectly well. The process may take slightly longer but is just as effective.

While the cream is whipping, finely chop the parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, chives, and garlic. If you are using lemon zest, prepare it at this time as well.

Step 2

Step 2

If you do not have a stand mixer, an electric hand mixer works perfectly well. The process may take slightly longer but is just as effective.

Once the cream has fully separated, pour off the buttermilk and reserve it for another use. Transfer the butter solids to a clean bowl and gently squeeze them with your hands or a spatula to remove any remaining liquid. Rinse the butter under cold running water until the water runs clear.

Place the rinsed butter in a mixing bowl. Add the salt, chopped herbs, minced garlic, and lemon zest if using. Mix well with a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3

Step 3

While the cream is whipping, finely chop the parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, chives, and garlic. If you are using lemon zest, prepare it at this time as well.

To shape the butter, place it on a sheet of parchment paper. Roll it into a log, twisting the ends of the paper to secure. Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours until firm.

Step 4

Step 4

Once the cream has fully separated, pour off the buttermilk and reserve it for another use. Transfer the butter solids to a clean bowl and gently squeeze them with your hands or a spatula to remove any remaining liquid. Rinse the butter under cold running water until the water runs clear.

Your Homemade Butter is now ready to use. Spread it on bread, melt it over vegetables, or use it to enhance your favorite dishes.