Cranberry Butter

 

Ingredients
1 cup fresh cranberries

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 teaspoon orange zest (optional but recommended)

1 tablespoon orange juice or water

Pinch of salt

Instructions2. Prepare the Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or wooden spoon until light and smooth.

3. Combine: Once the cranberry mixture is cool, fold it into the butter along with the orange zest and a pinch of salt. Stir or beat gently until evenly combined and marbled with color.

4. Serve or Store: Spoon into a small serving dish or jar. Use immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving for easy spreading.

Tips & Variations
Sweeter or Tart: Adjust sugar to taste—start with ⅓ cup for a tarter spread or use up to ¾ cup for a sweeter one.

Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger to the cranberries while cooking.

Make Ahead: Cranberry butter can be made up to a week in advance. Flavors deepen as it sits.

Gifting Idea: Pack into small jars, seal with a lid, and tie with twine or ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Serving Suggestion: Perfect on fresh bread, pancakes, waffles, or alongside roasted turkey or chicken.