Strawberry Honey Butter

This Strawberry Honey Butter is a delightful addition to your kitchen, perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or pancakes. Its rich flavor comes from fresh strawberries and honey, making it a superior alternative to store-bought options. Ideal for brunches, picnics, or simply enjoying at home, this recipe will elevate your breakfast game and impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious butter in no time.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for toast, scones, or as a sweet dip for fruits and desserts.
• Natural Sweetness: The combination of strawberries and honey provides a wholesome sweetness without refined sugars.
• Great for Gifting: Package in cute jars for thoughtful homemade gifts that friends and family will love.
• Long-Lasting: Properly canned, this butter can be stored for months, letting you enjoy the taste of summer all year round.

Tools and Preparation

To get started with your Strawberry Honey Butter, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the proper equipment will streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Deep pot
• Jar lifter
• Canning jars (4 half-pint)
• Boiling water canner

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: It makes pureeing strawberries quick and easy, ensuring a smooth texture for your butter.
• Deep pot: A deep pot allows for even cooking without splattering while simmering the mixture.
• Jar lifter: This tool helps safely transfer hot jars without burns during the canning process.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Honey Butter

• 3 pounds strawberries (washed and hulled)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup honey
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp bottled lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp salt

How to Make Strawberry Honey Butter

Step 1: Prepare Your Canning Setup

1. Prepare your boiling water canner by heating it up.
2. Heat four half-pint jars in simmering water until you’re ready to use them; do not boil.
3. Wash lids in warm soapy water and set them aside with their bands.

Step 2: Puree the Strawberries

1. Place the washed and hulled strawberries into a food processor.
2. Puree the strawberries until smooth.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

1. In a deep pot over medium heat, combine the strawberry puree with sugar, honey, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring frequently to avoid scorching.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened

1. Lower the heat to a simmer once it boils.
2. Continue cooking until very thick (about 60-90 minutes), stirring often.
3. The strawberry honey butter is done when it holds its shape on a spoon.

Step 5: Fill Your Jars

1. Use a jar lifter to grab one canning jar; place it on a towel or wooden cutting board.
2. Ladle hot butter into the hot jar while leaving a 1/4 inch headspace.
3. Remove air bubbles with a headspace tool and wipe the rim of the jar clean.

Step 6: Seal Jars

1. Center the lid on top of the jar and apply its band; adjust it to fingertip tightness.
2. Carefully place each filled jar into your boiling water canner.

Step 7: Process Jars

1. Once all jars are filled and in the canner, bring water back to a boil.
2. Process jars for 10 minutes (adjusting for altitude if necessary).
3. Turn off heat after processing, remove lid from canner, and let jars stand in hot water for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Down

1. Remove jars from water using your jar lifter.
2. Let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours before checking seals; lids should not flex when pressed in the center.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Honey Butter as a delightful treat!

How to Serve Strawberry Honey Butter

Strawberry honey butter is a delightful spread that enhances many dishes. Its sweet and fruity flavor makes it perfect for various occasions, whether you are hosting brunch or enjoying a quiet breakfast at home.

On Toast

• Spread on Toast: A generous layer of strawberry honey butter on warm toast creates a deliciously sweet start to your day.

With Pancakes

• Pancake Topping: Instead of syrup, top your pancakes with strawberry honey butter for a fruity twist that elevates your breakfast experience.

In Desserts

• Dessert Dip: Use strawberry honey butter as a dip for fresh fruits or cookies. It adds a creamy, sweet element that pairs perfectly with desserts.

With Scones

• Scone Companion: Serve strawberry honey butter alongside freshly baked scones for an elegant afternoon tea treat.

On Biscuits

• Biscuits Spread: Slather strawberry honey butter on warm biscuits for a comforting and indulgent snack any time of the day.

How to Perfect Strawberry Honey Butter

For the best results when making strawberry honey butter, keep these tips in mind to enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: The fresher the strawberries, the better the flavor. Look for ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of sugar or honey based on your preference. Taste the mixture before canning.
• Ensure Proper Consistency: Cook until thickened properly; the mixture should hold its shape on a spoon for the perfect spreadable consistency.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the mixture while simmering. Overcooking can lead to caramelization, which alters the flavor.
• Sterilize Jars Well: Ensure jars are properly sterilized before filling them with strawberry honey butter to prevent spoilage.
• Cool Completely Before Storing: Allow jars to cool completely after processing to ensure a tight seal and longer shelf life.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Honey Butter

Strawberry honey butter pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, adding a delightful sweetness that complements both savory and sweet flavors.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of strawberry honey butter.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a nutritious dish that benefits from a dollop of buttery sweetness.
3. Oatmeal Bowl: Stir in some strawberry honey butter into your morning oatmeal for added flavor and creaminess.
4. Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers, where strawberry honey butter can be served as a delightful spread.
5. Savory Muffins: Serve with cornbread or savory muffins for an unexpected yet delicious pairing that balances flavors nicely.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Elevate traditional grilled cheese by spreading some strawberry honey butter inside before grilling; it adds an exquisite hint of sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry honey butter can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the prep: Not preparing your jars properly can lead to spoilage. Always ensure jars are hot and clean before filling.
• Boldly ignore the heat: Cooking the mixture at too high a temperature can cause it to scorch. Stir frequently and maintain a medium heat.
• Boldly overlook headspace: Filling jars too full can prevent proper sealing. Always leave a 1/4 inch headspace from the top.
• Boldly forget about altitude: Processing times may vary based on altitude. Adjust your processing time accordingly for best results.
• Boldly rush cooling: Letting jars cool too quickly can break the seal. Allow them to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• It will last up to 2 weeks when kept cold.

Freezing Strawberry Honey Butter

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 6 months. Label with date for reference.

Reheating Strawberry Honey Butter

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place covered butter in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until just warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat, stirring frequently until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and using strawberry honey butter.

What is Strawberry Honey Butter?

Strawberry honey butter is a sweet spread made from fresh strawberries, honey, and other ingredients. It’s perfect for toast or pancakes.

How long does Strawberry Honey Butter last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 2 weeks in the fridge and up to 6 months in the freezer.

Can I customize my Strawberry Honey Butter?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or use different berries for a unique flavor twist.

Is Strawberry Honey Butter easy to make?

Yes! With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create this delicious treat at home without fuss.

What should I serve with Strawberry Honey Butter?

It pairs wonderfully with bread, muffins, scones, and even as a dip for fruit!

Final Thoughts

This strawberry honey butter is not only delicious but also versatile in its uses. Spread it on your favorite baked goods or use it as a dip. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors!