Name: Cranberry Honey Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (Make sure it's at room temperature for best results.); 1/4 cup honey (Use high-quality honey for the best flavor.); 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped (Chop finely to distribute evenly.); 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) (Add for extra flavor if desired.)

Jump to Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite spread: Cranberry Honey Butter! Imagine the creamy, velvety texture of freshly whipped butter blended with the tangy pop of cranberries and the golden sweetness of pure honey—it’s an instant upgrade for your breakfast, brunch, or holiday table. You know those recipes that instantly steal the show at family gatherings? This is one of them! I first stumbled across this butter during a cozy holiday brunch with friends, and since then, it’s been a game-changer for my toast, pancakes, and dinner rolls. What I love most? It comes together in just minutes with only a handful of ingredients! If you’re already a fan of my Homemade Maple Cinnamon Butter, you’ll be thrilled by the bright twist cranberries bring to this version. Trust me, once you try this easy, festive spread, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed a hot biscuit without it!

What is Cranberry Honey Butter?

So, what exactly is Cranberry Honey Butter? With a name like this, you may picture a secret family recipe passed down through the ages—or perhaps something a woodland fairy might serve at a magical tea party! But really, this whimsical concoction combines just three pantry favorites: butter, honey, and dried cranberries. Why the name? It’s pretty straightforward… and delicious! The classic saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and nothing proves it quite like this sweet, tangy, and creamy spread. Ready to see what all the fuss is about? Put on your apron and let’s make a batch—you’ll be swooning in no time!

Why You’ll Love This

First and foremost, Cranberry Honey Butter is all about that irresistibly creamy texture with a pop of festive flavor—think classic buttery goodness elevated by tart cranberries and mellow honey. It’s a cost-effective treat that’s far cheaper than store-bought specialty spreads and requires just four simple ingredients you likely already have. The real standout here is the medley of flavors: a hint of cinnamon, a touch of sweetness, and bursts of cranberry in every scoop. Compared to my wildly popular Cinnamon Sugar Butter, this recipe offers an eye-catching color and a bright, fruity twist. Whether you use it on pancakes, muffins, or roasted vegetables, Cranberry Honey Butter is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t wait—whip up a batch and watch your breakfast (or brunch) go from basic to blissful!

How to Make

Quick Overview

What makes Cranberry Honey Butter a must-try? It’s incredibly quick, delightfully tasty, and ready in just 10 minutes. With no cooking required, you only need to soften, mix, and spread. The creamy butter base is effortlessly blended with honey and finely chopped cranberries, resulting in a spread that’s both velvety and decorative. Whether you’re a novice or a kitchen pro, you’ll love the simplicity and festive flair this recipe brings to your table.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Step-by-Step

Begin by placing the softened unsalted butter in a medium mixing bowl. Make sure your butter is truly soft—set it out at room temperature for about 30–60 minutes beforehand for the best results.
Add honey to the butter. If you’re using cinnamon, sprinkle it in at this point.
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer (or even a sturdy spatula), blend the butter and honey together on medium speed until fully combined and fluffy.
Fold in the finely chopped dried cranberries using a spatula. Stir until the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
Taste and adjust the sweetness or cinnamon as desired.
Transfer your Cranberry Honey Butter to a small serving bowl or mold it in parchment paper for a log shape. For a firmer spread, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Serve at room temperature to enjoy the creamy texture and maximize flavor.

What to Serve Cranberry Honey Butter With

Cranberry Honey Butter is as versatile as it is delicious. Try it slathered on warm buttermilk biscuits, fluffy pancakes, hearty waffles, or toasted bagels. It also pairs beautifully with cornbread, scones, and quick breads like banana or pumpkin loaf. Hosting a special breakfast or brunch? Add it to your breakfast spread alongside Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, and coffee, or pair it with a holiday turkey dinner for an unexpected twist on classic dinner rolls.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Use room temperature butter for the fluffiest texture—cold butter won’t mix evenly, and melted butter makes the spread too runny.
Opt for high-quality honey and real unsalted butter for the richest flavor.
Chop the dried cranberries finely so you get juicy bits in every bite without overwhelming the spread.
For a nutty twist, add a teaspoon of orange zest or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans.
Want a vegan version? Substitute with plant-based butter and maple syrup instead of honey.
Avoid over-mixing—the butter should be just blended and creamy, not greasy or melted.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftover Cranberry Honey Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, shape the butter into a log using parchment paper, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To soften, let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before serving—never microwave, which could melt the butter and alter the texture. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or gifting during the holiday season!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries are best for this recipe, as fresh ones will add too much moisture and could alter the texture of your butter.

How long does Cranberry Honey Butter last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just keep it tightly sealed.

Can I freeze Cranberry Honey Butter?

Absolutely! Wrap it in parchment paper or plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to two months.

What kind of bread goes best with Cranberry Honey Butter?

It pairs beautifully with almost any kind of bread, including sourdough, cornbread, biscuits, and even bagels.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use a high-quality vegan butter and swap the honey for agave or maple syrup for a plant-based alternative.

Conclusion

Cranberry Honey Butter is proof that a few simple ingredients can transform your breakfast, brunch, or holiday meal into something truly special. With its creamy texture, sweet-tart flavor, and eye-catching color, this delightful spread is both pantry-friendly and party-ready. Whether you’re a culinary beginner or a seasoned cook, this is a recipe you can whip up in minutes and serve with pride. So, grab your ingredients, get mixing, and bring a little sweetness into your kitchen today—don’t forget to check out more delicious butter and spread recipes on the blog too. Happy cooking!