Garlic Herb Honey Butter Recipe – Sweet, Savory, and Packed with Flavor
For a delicious mix of sweet and savory, this Garlic Herb Honey Butter is the perfect spread! Combining the natural sweetness of honey with the rich, savory flavor of garlic and fresh herbs, this butter is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for spreading on warm bread, slathering on roasted vegetables, or using as a topping for grilled meats.
Let’s get started on this flavorful Garlic Herb Honey Butter recipe!
Ingredients for Garlic Herb Honey Butter
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a balanced, flavorful butter with a hint of sweetness and savory notes.
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons honey (your favorite variety)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, rosemary, or a mix)
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- A pinch of sea salt: to enhance the flavors, especially if using unsalted butter.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: for a bit of spice.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: adds a fresh, bright note.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Garlic Herb Honey Butter
This recipe is easy to make and takes only a few minutes to prepare.
Step 1: Soften the Butter
Let your butter sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until softened. Softened butter ensures easy mixing and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 2: Mince the Garlic and Chop the Herbs
Mince the garlic finely and chop your fresh herbs. You can use a single herb, such as parsley or thyme, or mix a few of your favorites, like rosemary, oregano, and chives.
Step 3: Mix the Butter, Honey, Garlic, and Herbs
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Using a hand mixer or whisk, blend the mixture until smooth and evenly combined. If you're adding sea salt, black pepper, or lemon zest, mix them in now.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste your garlic herb honey butter and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer more garlic flavor, you can add an extra clove. For a stronger herb flavor, toss in more chopped herbs.
Step 5: Store Your Garlic Herb Honey Butter
Transfer the butter to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For the best spreadable texture, let it soften at room temperature before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Honey Butter
This versatile butter can be used to enhance a variety of dishes with its savory-sweet flavor. Here are some ideas:
- Spread on warm bread, biscuits, or dinner rolls: The perfect accompaniment to any meal.
- Use as a topping for roasted vegetables: Try it with roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a flavorful finish.
- Slather on grilled or roasted meats: Adds a rich, savory glaze to chicken, pork, or steak.
- Melt over baked potatoes: A quick and delicious way to elevate simple baked potatoes or mashed potatoes.
- Use in pasta dishes: Stir it into hot pasta or spread over garlic bread for a garlicky, herby, and slightly sweet flavor.
Tips for the Best Garlic Herb Honey Butter
To ensure your garlic herb honey butter turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs give this butter a vibrant flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch (just reduce the quantity).
- Adjust sweetness and garlic: Start with 2 cloves of garlic and 2 tablespoons of honey, then adjust to your taste. More garlic for a stronger savory flavor, or more honey for a sweeter touch.
- Use softened butter: Make sure the butter is fully softened so it blends easily and evenly with the other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes! If you use salted butter, just skip adding extra salt to the recipe. The salty-sweet balance will still be delicious.
2. How long will Garlic Herb 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! Simply substitute the regular butter with a plant-based or vegan butter alternative, and the recipe will still turn out delicious.
4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If using dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of each herb in place of fresh. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so you’ll need less.
Conclusion
This Garlic Herb Honey Butter combines the sweet richness of honey with the savory depth of garlic and fresh herbs, making it the perfect spread for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re using it to enhance grilled meats, roasted veggies, or warm bread, this butter is sure to add a burst of flavor to your meals. It’s easy to make and incredibly versatile—perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet-savory goodness of homemade garlic herb honey butter!
Whip up a batch of Garlic Herb Honey Butter and let me know how you like to serve it! Whether it’s for bread, meats, or vegetables, this flavorful butter is sure to impress.