When it comes to elevating the flavor of bread, vegetables, meats, or even pasta, a simple yet powerful tool lies at our fingertips: compound butter. By blending together rich, creamy butter with an array of herbs, spices, and other ingredients, we can create a world of flavors that are both familiar and excitingly new. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering compound butter recipes, each one perfect for every occasion – whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply add a little excitement to your daily meals.
From classic combinations like garlic and herb to bold and adventurous options like chipotle lime and truffle sea salt, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. So grab a stick of butter and let’s dive into the wonderful world of compound butters!
Garlic Herb Compound Butter
Elevate your meal with a flavorful compound butter that’s perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or meats. This garlic herb butter combines the pungency of garlic with the freshness of herbs for a delicious and aromatic addition to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the minced garlic and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and chives.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a compound butter that’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature.
Lemon Dill Compound Butter
Elevate your culinary creations with this bright and zesty lemon dill compound butter, perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or meats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill weed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the chopped fresh dill weed, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Wrap the compound butter in plastic wrap or wax paper and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This is a spreadable mixture that can be used immediately or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Spicy Chili Lime Compound Butter
This zesty butter combines the warmth of chili peppers with the brightness of lime juice, perfect for adding a pop of flavor to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re looking to elevate a simple grilled cheese or add some excitement to your morning toast, this spicy compound butter is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1-2 diced jalapeño peppers (depending on desired level of heat)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and diced jalapeños until well combined.
2. Add the lime juice and lime zest, mixing until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Wrap the butter mixture in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Cooking time: None! This butter is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Honey Cinnamon Compound Butter
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet impressive honey cinnamon compound butter. Perfect for topping toast, waffles, or even using as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, cream the softened butter with a fork until light and fluffy.
2. Add the honey, cinnamon, and salt to the butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level to your liking.
4. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use as desired: spread on toast, top waffles, or use as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply chill and serve.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Compound Butter
Elevate your culinary game with this rich and flavorful compound butter, perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or meats. This roasted garlic parmesan compound butter combines the savory flavors of roasted garlic and parmesan cheese with the creaminess of unsalted butter.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3-4 cloves roasted garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic by wrapping it in foil and baking for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. Allow the roasted garlic to cool, then mince it into small pieces.
4. In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced roasted garlic, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (butter is ready when ingredients are fully incorporated)
Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Compound Butter
Elevate your meals with this flavorful compound butter, perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or as a finishing touch for pasta dishes. This sun-dried tomato and basil-infused butter is easy to make and adds a burst of Mediterranean flair to any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves to the butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Shape the mixture into a log or roll, wrapping it in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Slice and serve as needed.
Cooking Time: None
Maple Bourbon Compound Butter
Elevate your baked goods and savory dishes with this sweet and sophisticated compound butter. Rich maple syrup and bourbon whiskey meld together to create a deep, velvety spread perfect for topping toast, biscuits, or using as a finishing touch for roasted meats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the maple syrup and bourbon, whisking until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use as needed within 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Orange Zest Thyme Compound Butter
Elevate your snacks and sandwiches with this vibrant compound butter, infused with the citrusy zing of orange zest and the earthy charm of thyme. Perfect for topping crackers, bread, or vegetables, this flavorful spread is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated orange zest
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the orange zest and thyme leaves; mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Shape into a log or roll, wrapping in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Slice and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None
Rosemary Garlic Compound Butter
This aromatic compound butter combines the piney flavor of rosemary with the pungency of garlic, making it a perfect accompaniment to bread, vegetables, meats, or as a topping for pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
2. Add the chopped rosemary leaves and mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Shape the mixture into a log or roll, wrapping it in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled, sliced or softened as desired.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a spread and not cooked.
Smoked Paprika Compound Butter
Smoked Paprika Compound Butter Recipe
Transform your bread, vegetables, or meats with the rich flavor of Smoked Paprika Compound Butter. This aromatic spread combines the deep smokiness of smoked paprika with the creaminess of compound butter.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the softened butter, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Transfer the mixture to a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Shape the mixture into a log, about 1 inch in diameter and 6 inches long.
4. Wrap the log tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 week.
Cooking Time:
– None required! Simply slice and serve when needed.
Blue Cheese Walnut Compound Butter
This rich and savory butter is perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or meats. Its creamy blue cheese flavor pairs beautifully with the earthy taste of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, crumbled blue cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped walnuts.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, mashing any remaining lumps with a fork.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This compound butter is ready to use straight from the fridge.
Chive and Shallot Compound Butter
Chive and Shallot Compound Butter is a delicious addition to any meal, perfect for spreading on warm bread or using as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables. This butter combines the pungency of shallots with the oniony flavor of chives, resulting in a rich and savory condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 2 tablespoons thinly sliced shallot
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped chives, and thinly sliced shallot until well combined.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap or wax paper and shape into a log or roll.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Truffle Sea Salt Compound Butter
Elevate your culinary game with this luxurious Truffle Sea Salt Compound Butter, perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup truffle salt
– 1 tablespoon fleur de sel sea salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the truffle salt and fleur de sel sea salt to the whipped butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the honey until fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the compound butter to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time:
– None required! This compound butter is ready to use immediately.
Chipotle Lime Compound Butter
This spicy and tangy compound butter is perfect for adding a bold flavor to grilled meats, vegetables, or bread. The chipotle peppers add a smoky heat, while the lime juice provides a bright and citrusy note.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter with a fork until light and fluffy.
2. Add the lime juice, chipotle peppers, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use as desired: spread on grilled meats or vegetables, serve with bread or crackers, or use as a topping for soups or salads.
Cooking Time: None
Lavender Honey Compound Butter
This sweet and fragrant compound butter combines the floral flavor of lavender with the warmth of honey, perfect for topping toast, scones, or using as a spread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the softened butter and dried lavender buds.
2. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted and the lavender is fragrant (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the honey until fully incorporated.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Transfer the compound butter to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cilantro Jalapeño Compound Butter
Elevate your dishes with the bold flavors of this Cilantro Jalapeño Compound Butter. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2-3 jalapeños peppers, seeded and finely chopped
• Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped cilantro, and chopped jalapeños until well combined.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Transfer the compound butter to an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Use within 1 week.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a compound butter that can be stored and used at your convenience.
Vanilla Bean Compound Butter
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this simple yet impressive homemade vanilla bean compound butter. This sweet and creamy spread is perfect for topping toast, waffles, or even using as a filling for pastries.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean pod, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, cream together the softened butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Add the kosher salt and mix until combined.
3. Insert the split vanilla bean pod into the butter mixture, folding gently to distribute the bean’s flavor and aroma.
4. Mix until the butter is evenly infused with the vanilla flavor.
5. Wrap the compound butter in plastic wrap or parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Black Pepper and Sage Compound Butter
This aromatic compound butter combines the earthy flavors of black pepper and sage, perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or meats. With its subtle sweetness and savory depth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the softened butter with an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy.
2. Add the freshly ground black pepper and chopped sage leaves to the butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Transfer the compound butter to an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Use within 1 week.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 35 minutes
Summary
Elevate your cooking with these 18 flavorful compound butter recipes! From classic garlic herb to bold chipotle lime, and from sweet maple bourbon to savory blue cheese walnut, there’s a flavor combination for every occasion. Whether you’re looking to add a finishing touch to roasted vegetables or a burst of flavor to grilled meats, these compound butters are sure to impress. Try them on bread, vegetables, meats, or even as a dip – the possibilities are endless!
