Chili Lime Honey Butter Recipe – Sweet, Spicy, and Citrusy

For a zesty twist on traditional honey butter, this Chili Lime Honey Butter combines the sweetness of honey with a kick of heat from chili powder and a refreshing tang from lime. It’s perfect for spreading on cornbread, slathering on grilled meats, or using as a topping for roasted vegetables. The sweet-spicy-citrusy balance is sure to add bold flavor to your favorite dishes.

Let’s get started with this easy and flavorful chili lime honey butter recipe!

Ingredients for Chili Lime Honey Butter

This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a spread that’s bursting with sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.

Basic Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
  • ¼ cup honey (your favorite variety)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest (for extra citrusy flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste, or use cayenne for more heat)

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:

  • A pinch of sea salt: enhances the sweet and spicy flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: for a smoky, savory twist.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: adds a savory depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chili Lime Honey Butter

This recipe is quick to make, and the result is a rich, flavorful butter with the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and citrus.

Step 1: Soften the Butter

Let your butter sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until softened. Softened butter blends easily with the honey, lime, and spices.

Step 2: Zest and Juice the Lime

Grate the zest of one lime and set it aside. Squeeze fresh lime juice from the same lime to get about 1 tablespoon of juice. The zest adds an extra burst of lime flavor, while the juice brings a refreshing citrus tang.

Step 3: Mix the Butter, Honey, Lime, and Chili Powder

In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, lime juice, lime zest, and chili powder. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. If adding sea salt, smoked paprika, or garlic powder, mix them in now.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Taste your chili lime honey butter and adjust the flavors as needed. If you want it spicier, add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne. For more tang, add an extra squeeze of lime juice.

Step 5: Store Your Chili Lime Honey Butter

Transfer the butter to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Let it soften at room temperature before serving for easy spreading.

How to Serve Chili Lime Honey Butter

This bold and flavorful butter can be used in a variety of ways to add a sweet, spicy, and citrusy kick to your dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

  • Spread on cornbread or biscuits: The perfect accompaniment to your Southern-style meals.
  • Slather on grilled corn: Adds a sweet, tangy, and spicy glaze to corn on the cob.
  • Top grilled or roasted meats: Use it as a finishing butter for grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, or fish.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables: Spread on roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for extra flavor.
  • Use as a dip for warm bread or tortillas: Perfect for dipping crusty bread or freshly made tortillas.

Tips for the Best Chili Lime Honey Butter

  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice: Fresh lime juice and zest give the best, brightest flavor. Bottled juice can taste artificial or overly sour.
  • Adjust heat levels: Start with 1 teaspoon of chili powder and add more to taste. For more heat, use cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
  • Let it soften before serving: For a smooth, spreadable texture, let the butter sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes! If using salted butter, skip the added sea salt. The salted butter will still balance the sweetness of the honey and the tang of the lime.

2. How long will Chili Lime Honey Butter last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this butter will last for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for up to three months.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute regular butter with a plant-based or vegan butter alternative to make a dairy-free version of chili lime honey butter.

4. Can I use other spices?
Absolutely! You can experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chipotle powder for a smoky twist. Add a pinch of cayenne if you want extra heat.

Conclusion

This Chili Lime Honey Butter brings together the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making it a versatile spread for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re using it to top grilled corn, spread on cornbread, or add a spicy kick to meats, this butter is sure to be a hit. It’s quick and easy to make, and the flavor combination will take your meals to the next level.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet, spicy, and citrusy goodness of chili lime honey butter!

Whip up a batch of Chili Lime Honey Butter, and let me know how you like to serve it! Whether for barbecues, dinner, or a special meal, this flavorful butter is sure to impress.