Name: Maple Cranberry Butter Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (about 120g); 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (about 120ml); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (about 115g); 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a spread that feels like a cozy hug with every bite, look no further than this vibrant and luscious Maple Cranberry Butter. It’s a magical blend of tart cranberries and rich, smooth butter sweetened just right with pure maple syrup. The balance of flavors will brighten your morning toast, elevate your muffins, or add a festive touch to any dish. Trust me, once you try this homemade delight, it will quickly become your favorite way to enjoy a classic fall flavor in a silky, spreadable form.

Maple Cranberry Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a starring role in making this Maple Cranberry Butter irresistible. You’ll find the list refreshingly simple, yet every item adds depth, sweetness, and that beautiful scarlet hue that makes this recipe shine.

Fresh or frozen cranberries (1 cup): The star ingredient giving the butter its delightful tartness and vibrant color.
Pure maple syrup (1/2 cup): Adds a natural, rich sweetness that perfectly balances the cranberries.
Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Provides creaminess and a luscious texture that makes this spread dreamy.
Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): A warm spice note that enhances the flavor complexity without overpowering.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Small but mighty, salt heightens all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.

How to Make Maple Cranberry Butter

Step 1: Cook the Cranberries with Maple Syrup

Start by combining the cranberries and pure maple syrup in a medium saucepan. Heat it over medium, stirring occasionally, until the berries burst and the mixture thickens—this usually takes about 10 minutes. This gentle cooking softens the cranberries and marries the tartness with the syrup’s sweetness, creating a beautiful base for the butter.

Step 2: Blend with Butter, Cinnamon, and Salt

Once the cranberry mixture cools slightly, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add the softened unsalted butter, a touch of cinnamon, and salt. Blend everything together until it turns into a silky, smooth spread. This step transforms the chunky cooked fruit into creamy bliss.

Step 3: Adjust the Flavors and Consistency

Give your creation a taste test. If you prefer it sweeter or thinner, feel free to stir in a bit more maple syrup until it’s just right. This flexibility lets you customize the butter perfectly to your liking.

Step 4: Chill to Meld Flavors

Transfer your Maple Cranberry Butter into a bowl or airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to firm into that perfect spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Ready to Serve

Now comes the best part: spreading that glossy, ruby-hued butter on your favorite breads or breakfast treats. Your homemade Maple Cranberry Butter is ready to shine on all your morning favorites.

How to Serve Maple Cranberry Butter

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh cranberries or a dash of cinnamon on top of the butter just before serving for an extra festive touch. A few toasted pecans can also add crunch and a nutty contrast that complements the creamy texture beautifully.

Side Dishes

Maple Cranberry Butter pairs wonderfully with warm toast, freshly baked muffins, or flaky croissants. It’s also an absolute knockout slathered over pancakes or waffles, adding a fruity and buttery twist to your breakfast table. Don’t hesitate to experiment by spreading it on baked sweet potatoes or roasted winter vegetables—it’s surprisingly versatile!

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve your Maple Cranberry Butter in a pretty dish surrounded by different breads, bagels, and crackers. You can also frost cupcakes or swirl it into homemade frostings for a flavorful twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, dollop some on top of creamy yogurt or oatmeal to upgrade your breakfast game instantly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Maple Cranberry Butter keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually mature over time, so if you can wait, it might taste even better after a day or two!

Freezing

This butter freezes well, making it perfect to prepare ahead of the holiday rush. Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It should maintain its peak quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Maple Cranberry Butter, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can also warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it back to that perfect spreadable consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before cooking to help them break down faster.

Is there a substitute for maple syrup?

While pure maple syrup is what gives this recipe its distinctive flavor, you can use honey or agave syrup if needed—though the taste will be slightly different, it will still be delicious.

Can I make this vegan?

You can swap the unsalted butter for a high-quality vegan butter, and you’ll still achieve the creamy texture and wonderful taste of Maple Cranberry Butter.

How long does the butter keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this butter will stay fresh for about two weeks, making it perfect to enjoy over several breakfasts or snacks.

Can I adjust the sweetness in this recipe?

Definitely! The amount of maple syrup can be adjusted to your taste during the blending step. If you want it sweeter, add a little more syrup; if you prefer it less sweet, feel free to reduce it slightly.

Final Thoughts

Making Maple Cranberry Butter is such a joyful experience that brings a burst of flavor and warmth to any meal. Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday spread or just a simple way to brighten your mornings, this recipe is one to treasure. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your kitchen as it has become in mine!

Maple Cranberry Butter Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup (serves 8) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Maple Cranberry Butter is a deliciously smooth and creamy spread combining tart cranberries with the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup and rich unsalted butter, finished with a hint of cinnamon and salt. Perfect for enhancing toast, muffins, pancakes, or any breakfast item, it offers a unique seasonal twist that is both comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (about 120g)
1/2 cup pure maple syrup (about 120ml)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (about 115g)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries and maple syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Blend Ingredients: Transfer the cranberry mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the softened butter, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Adjust Flavor: Taste the butter and adjust sweetness or seasoning if necessary. If it is too thick, add a little more maple syrup until you reach your desired consistency.
Chill Mixture: Transfer the cranberry butter to a mixing bowl or an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Serve the Maple Cranberry Butter on toast, muffins, pancakes, or any of your favorite breakfast items.
Storage: Consider storing any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freezing for longer storage.

Notes

Use fresh or frozen cranberries depending on availability; both work well.
Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup to your taste preference.
Softened butter blends more easily and yields a creamier texture.
This butter can be made ahead of time; chilling helps the flavors develop better.
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months to maintain freshness.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Spread
Method: Stovetop and Blending
Cuisine: American