You know that cozy feeling when you slather warm toast with something homemade and just right? That’s what this cranberry honey butter recipe is all about. Sweet, tangy, and creamy with a pop of orange zest, it’s a five-ingredient wonder that turns ordinary bread into a little holiday magic.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Honey Butter
If you’ve got 10 minutes and a soft stick of butter, you’ve got time for this gem.
Here’s why you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge all season:
- The sweet-tart combo is addictive
- It’s perfect on anything from toast to turkey
- You only need 5 pantry-friendly ingredients
- It keeps well in the fridge or freezer
- It makes a thoughtful, beautiful homemade gift
Trust me one taste and you’ll be spooning it onto everything.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Core Five
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey (or swap with maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A dash of cinnamon or cloves for a warm holiday twist
Feel free to play around with the flavors the base is super forgiving and versatile.
How to Make Cranberry Honey Butter (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 Soften & Chop
Let your butter come to room temp (super soft, but not melted). Meanwhile, finely chop the dried cranberries so they blend in smoothly.
Step 2 Whip It Good
Add the softened butter, chopped cranberries, honey, zest, and salt to a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat everything until fluffy and well combined.
Step 3 Taste & Adjust
Want it sweeter? Add more honey. Brighter? A little extra zest. This is your moment to customize.
Step 4 Store or Serve
Transfer to a jar, ramekin, or roll into a log with parchment. You can serve it right away or refrigerate to let flavors meld.
Tip: Want to make it fancy? Pipe it into small jars and tie them with ribbon for the cutest edible holiday gift.
Delicious Ways to Use It
Breakfast Bliss
Spread it on pancakes, waffles, or a slice of sourdough while it’s still warm. It’s also dreamy on bagels or English muffins.
Sweet & Savory Combos
Try it on turkey sandwiches, crostini, or sweet potato toast.
It adds just the right touch of flavor without overpowering.
Party Ideas
Use it as a dip with soft rolls on a butter board or pack into jars for hostess gifts.
Psst… Pair it with these warm, fluffy leftover cranberry sauce muffins for the ultimate post-holiday breakfast.
Easy Variations to Try
Switch the Sweetener
Use maple syrup, agave, or even brown sugar for deeper flavor.
Try New Fruits or Zests
Swap cranberries for chopped dried cherries, blueberries, or figs. Lemon or lime zest works beautifully too.
Add Warm Spices
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg gives it a cozy kick.
Go Savory or Spicy
Mix in some rosemary, red pepper flakes, or even a bit of garlic for a totally different twist.
For another sweet-tart idea, this cranberry-orange buttermilk breakfast cake is a crowd-pleasing brunch pick.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks
- Freeze in logs or jars for up to 3 months
- To serve from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight
Wrap tightly to keep it fresh and flavorful!
Helpful Recipe Tips
- Use a food processor if you want super-fine cranberries
- If using fresh cranberries, cook them down with a little sugar and cool before mixing
- Want to use salted butter? Skip the extra pinch of salt
- It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for holiday spreads or brunch boards
Spread this on a slice of our buttery cranberry-orange curd tart for double the festive flavor.
FAQ: Cranberry Honey Butter
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes just simmer them with a spoonful of sugar until they burst and thicken. Cool completely before mixing into the butter.
What is compound butter?
It’s just a fancy way of saying “flavored butter.” Whether sweet or savory, compound butters are great for adding flavor with minimal effort.
How do I make it sweeter or saltier?
Easy! Just adjust the honey or salt to taste. Start small a little goes a long way.
Wrap-Up & Serving Idea
You’re gonna fall in love with this cranberry honey butter recipe it’s cozy, quick, and full of sweet-tart joy. Whether you’re making breakfast magic or wrapping up sweet gifts, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug.
Try it this weekend, leave a review, or pin it for later!
Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas,or join the fun on Facebook!
Cranberry Honey Butter
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: A dash of cinnamon or cloves
Instructions
- Let the butter come to room temperature until it’s very soft but not melted. Meanwhile, finely chop the dried cranberries.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped cranberries, honey, orange zest, and a pinch of salt.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat until fluffy and well combined.
- Taste and adjust—add more honey for sweetness or more zest for brightness.
- Transfer to a jar, ramekin, or roll into a log using parchment paper. Serve immediately or refrigerate to let the flavors meld.