Compound butters are a secret weapon in any kitchen arsenal. They’re quick to make, easy to store, and they pack a burst of flavor into every bite. Whether you’re seasoning a perfectly grilled steak, sweetening up a breakfast biscuit, or dressing up roasted vegetables, there’s a compound butter for every occasion. Here are five simple and scrumptious recipes to inspire your next spread.

1. Garlic & Herb Butter

Why You’ll Love It: This classic, savory combination is a must-have for home cooks. It works beautifully on steaks, chicken, and hot, crusty bread.

  • Ingredients

    • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic paste)

    • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

    • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives (optional)

    • ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust if using salted butter)

    • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • Instructions

    1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, chives (if using), salt, and pepper.

    2. Mix well with a fork or spatula until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

    3. Shape the butter into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before using.

  • Serving Suggestions:

    • Dollop on top of a hot steak right off the grill.

    • Spread onto a baguette and broil for quick garlic bread.

    • Stir into mashed potatoes for a garlicky upgrade.

2. Lemon-Dill Butter

Why You’ll Love It: Light, fresh, and fragrant—lemon-dill butter is a natural match for seafood, especially salmon. It also adds a bright twist when served with roasted or steamed vegetables.

  • Ingredients

    • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened

    • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest

    • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill

    • ¼ teaspoon salt

    • Pinch of black pepper

  • Instructions

    1. In a bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon zest, dill, salt, and black pepper.

    2. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

    3. Place the mixture on parchment paper or plastic wrap. Roll into a log and seal.

    4. Refrigerate or freeze until firm.

  • Serving Suggestions:

    • Top a baked salmon fillet right before serving.

    • Melt over grilled asparagus or steamed broccoli.

    • Add a pat to a baked potato for zesty, herby goodness.

3. Honey-Cinnamon Butter

Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for sweetening breakfast items and desserts, honey-cinnamon butter transforms simple toast or pancakes into a special treat. It’s also a delightful addition to baked sweet potatoes.

  • Ingredients

    • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened

    • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)

    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

    • Pinch of salt (optional, but helps balance sweetness)

  • Instructions

    1. Cream the softened butter, honey, and cinnamon together in a bowl.

    2. Add a small pinch of salt if desired.

    3. Roll into a log using plastic wrap, or spoon into a small jar with a lid.

    4. Chill until set.

  • Serving Suggestions:

    • Spread on toast, muffins, or warm biscuits.

    • Drizzle onto waffles or pancakes.

    • Swirl into hot oatmeal for a touch of sweetness.

4. Chili-Lime Butter

Why You’ll Love It: This spicy, tangy butter adds a pop of flavor and a bit of heat to meats, veggies, or even corn on the cob. It’s a delicious way to spice up your grilling routine.

  • Ingredients

    • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened

    • 1 teaspoon chili powder (or more to taste)

    • ½ teaspoon minced garlic (optional)

    • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (plus a little zest, if you like)

    • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • Instructions

    1. In a bowl, combine butter, chili powder, garlic (if using), lime juice, and salt.

    2. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

    3. Taste and adjust for heat—feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want it spicier!

    4. Shape into a log, or spoon into a small container, then chill or freeze.

  • Serving Suggestions:

    • Brush onto corn on the cob for a Mexican street-corn vibe.

    • Melt over grilled shrimp or chicken.

    • Use as a flavor booster in taco fillings or quesadillas.

5. Strawberry-Basil Butter

Why You’ll Love It: This sweet and herbaceous butter is a delightful surprise when spread on scones, croissants, or even quick bread. It’s also a lovely accompaniment for brunch and special breakfasts.

  • Ingredients

    • 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened

    • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh strawberries (or 1 tablespoon strawberry jam)

    • 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh basil

    • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

    • Pinch of salt

  • Instructions

    1. Mash the softened butter with strawberries (or jam), basil, honey (if using), and salt.

    2. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.

    3. Roll the flavored butter into a log or store in a small container.

    4. Chill until firm before using.

  • Serving Suggestions:

    • Spread over warm scones or biscuits.

    • Smear on French toast or pancakes.

    • Dollop onto sweet summer corn for a surprising sweet-herb twist.

Tips for Making and Storing Compound Butters

  • Start with Soften Butter: Always let your butter come to room temperature for easier mixing.

  • Use Quality Ingredients: Since butter is the main event, choose a high-quality, preferably unsalted butter. Adjust the salt content yourself for the best flavor control.

  • Roll & Label: Roll your compound butter in parchment paper or plastic wrap, label it with the flavor and date, and store it in the refrigerator (for up to 2 weeks) or freezer (for up to 3 months).

  • Slice & Serve: When you’re ready to use, simply slice off a round of butter and top your dish.

Elevate Your Everyday Meals

Compound butters are a foolproof way to pack extra flavor into whatever you’re cooking—or eating—without extra work. From savory classics to sweet treats, these five recipes will help you master the art of compound butter in no time. Give them a try, and prepare to dazzle your family, friends, and even yourself with just a simple pat of delicious, custom-flavored butter!