Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cranberry Honey Butter combines the sweet and tangy flavor of cranberries with the smooth richness of honey butter. It’s incredibly easy to make and adds a festive, colorful touch to any meal. Perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or rolls, this butter is also a great homemade gift for the holiday season. The vibrant red color and deliciously balanced taste make it a versatile and irresistible addition to your kitchen.
Ingredients
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1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
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2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 tsp orange zest (optional, for added brightness)
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Pinch of salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook the Cranberries: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries and honey. Stir occasionally for 5–7 minutes until the cranberries burst and soften. Use a spoon or fork to mash the cranberries into a chunky sauce. For a smoother texture, blend briefly with an immersion blender or in a food processor. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
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Mix with Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cooled cranberry mixture, orange zest (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or salt to your preference.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 1 cup
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil or plant-based butter.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced version.
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More Tangy: Increase the amount of cranberries for a stronger tart flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store cranberry honey butter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Let it soften before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried cranberries?
Fresh or frozen cranberries are preferred for the best texture, but dried cranberries can work in a pinch—just soak them in warm water for a few minutes.
2. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives.
3. How can I make the butter smoother?
Blend the cranberry mixture for a smoother texture before mixing with the butter.
4. Can I freeze cranberry honey butter?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
5. How do I serve this butter?
Cranberry honey butter is perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, pancakes, or as a topping for rolls.
Conclusion
Cranberry Honey Butter is a simple yet flavorful treat that will brighten up your breakfast or snack time. Its balance of sweetness, tartness, and creamy texture makes it a unique and versatile spread. Whether for holiday gatherings, gifts, or everyday indulgence, this butter will add a festive touch to any meal!

Cranberry Honey Butter
- Author: Amy
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Category: Spreads, Condiments, Holiday Recipes
- Method: Stovetop, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cranberry Honey Butter is a festive, flavorful spread that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the creamy richness of honey butter. Easy to make and perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or rolls, this butter also makes a wonderful homemade gift. With its vibrant red color and balanced taste, it’s a must-have for the holiday season and beyond
Ingredients
1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp orange zest (optional, for added brightness)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
-
Cook the Cranberries:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries and honey. Stir occasionally for 5–7 minutes until the cranberries burst and soften. Mash the cranberries into a chunky sauce using a spoon or fork. For a smoother texture, blend briefly with an immersion blender or in a food processor. Let it cool completely. -
Mix with Butter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cooled cranberry mixture, orange zest (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or salt to your liking.
Notes
Vegan Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter for a vegan version.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced variation.
More Tangy: Increase the cranberries for a stronger tart flavor.