How to Make Fresh, Homemade Butter – A Simple & Delicious Guide

Making homemade butter is a rewarding experience that delivers fresh, creamy, and natural butter with zero preservatives. With just one ingredient—heavy cream—you can create a rich, golden spread that elevates your dishes to the next level.

Whether you want a healthier alternative, a budget-friendly option, or simply the unmatched flavor of fresh butter, this step-by-step guide will show you how to make perfect butter at home in minutes!

Why You’ll Love Homemade Butter

Healthier & Natural – Control the quality of ingredients with organic or grass-fed cream, free from additives.
Cost-Effective – Making butter at home saves money, especially when buying cream in bulk.
Unmatched Freshness – Homemade butter has a richer flavor and creamier texture than store-bought brands.
Customizable Flavors – Easily create flavored butter by adding herbs, honey, or spices.

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

2 cups (1 pint) of heavy cream – For the best results, use organic or grass-fed cream.
Optional: 1/4 tsp salt – For lightly salted butter.

Equipment:

Stand mixer or hand mixer – Speeds up the churning process.
Mason jar – For a fun, hands-on method.
Fine mesh strainer – To separate buttermilk from butter.
Spatula – To press out excess liquid.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream

Pour 2 cups of heavy cream into a stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer.
If using a mason jar, fill it halfway to allow space for shaking.

2. Whip the Cream

Set the mixer to medium speed and start whipping the cream.
First, the cream will turn into whipped cream. Keep going!
After 10–15 minutes, the cream will separate into butterfat (solid butter) and buttermilk (liquid).

3. Separate the Butter & Buttermilk

Strain out the buttermilk using a fine mesh strainer.
Save the buttermilk for baking pancakes, biscuits, or marinades!

4. Rinse the Butter

Run the butter under cold water while pressing it with a spatula to remove excess buttermilk.
Removing all buttermilk helps prevent spoilage and extends shelf life.

5. Add Flavor & Shape

If you prefer salted butter, mix in 1/4 tsp salt for extra flavor.
Shape the butter into a block, ball, or press into a container.

6. Store & Enjoy

Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
Freeze portions for up to 6 months for long-term storage.

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Butter

Use High-Quality Cream – Grass-fed cream enhances the butter’s flavor and richness.
Let Cream Sit at Room Temperature – Slightly warmer cream churns faster.
Make Flavored Butter – Mix in honey, garlic, herbs, or cinnamon for unique variations.
Try the Mason Jar Method – Shake cream vigorously for 15–20 minutes for a hands-on approach!

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast Spread – Slather on toast, bagels, muffins, or pancakes.
Cooking Essential – Use in sautéing, roasting, or baking for enhanced flavors.
Sweet Butter – Mix in honey or cinnamon for a delicious topping.
Dinner Side – Serve with warm bread, biscuits, or cornbread.

Final Thoughts

Making butter at home is a simple, fun, and rewarding process that results in a creamy, all-natural spread you’ll love. Whether you’re enjoying it on warm toast, baking with it, or cooking savory dishes, fresh homemade butter is a game-changer in the kitchen.

Give this easy recipe a try and taste the rich, buttery goodness for yourself!

💬 Have you made homemade butter before? Share your experience in the comments!