Strawberry Honey Butter

This Strawberry Honey Butter is a delightful twist on traditional preserves, combining the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries with honey for a spread that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect for breakfast on toast, as a topping for pancakes, or even as a unique gift, this homemade creation elevates any meal. With its rich flavor and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for any fruit lover!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the canning process, making it accessible for beginners.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberries and honey creates a sweet and tangy spread that surpasses store-bought options.
• Versatile Uses: Use it on toast, in desserts, or as a dip for fruits—its uses are endless!
• Perfect for Gifting: Homemade jars of strawberry honey butter make thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
• Healthy Alternative: Made with natural ingredients, this butter is free from preservatives and artificial flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your strawberry honey butter, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (4 half pint)
• Boiling water canner
• Food processor
• Deep pot
• Jar lifter
• Headspace tool

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for storing your strawberry honey butter safely and preventing spoilage.
• Boiling water canner: Ensures that jars are properly sealed during the processing step.
• Food processor: Makes blending strawberries into a smooth puree quick and easy.

Ingredients

To make this delectable strawberry honey butter, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Strawberry Honey Butter

• 3 pounds strawberries (washed and hulled)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup honey
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp bottled lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp salt

How to Make Strawberry Honey Butter

Step 1: Prepare Your Canner

Start by preparing your boiling water canner. Heat four half pint jars in simmering water until they are ready to use; do not boil them. Wash the lids in warm soapy water while you wait.

Step 2: Puree Strawberries

Using a food processor, puree the washed and hulled strawberries until they are smooth.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

In a deep pot over medium heat, combine the strawberry puree with sugar, honey, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

Step 4: Simmer Until Thickened

Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 60–90 minutes. Stir often until the mixture becomes very thick. It will be done when it holds shape on a spoon.

Step 5: Fill the Jars

Using a jar lifter, take one canning jar out of hot water. Ladle hot strawberry honey butter into it, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles with a headspace tool and wipe the rim clean.

Step 6: Seal Jars

Center the lid on each jar and apply the band. Adjust to fingertip tight before placing each jar into the boiling water canner.

Step 7: Process Jars

Once all jars are filled, process them in boiling water for 10 minutes. Adjust processing time based on altitude if necessary. After processing, turn off heat and let jars stand in hot water for an additional 5 minutes before removing them.

Step 8: Cool Down

Remove jars from the canner and let them cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours. Check that lids are sealed properly; they should not flex when pressed in the center.

Enjoy your homemade strawberry honey butter!

How to Serve Strawberry Honey Butter

Strawberry honey butter is a delightful treat that can elevate many dishes. Its sweet and creamy texture makes it perfect for spreading on various foods or using as a dip.

On Toast

• Whole grain bread – Spread strawberry honey butter on toasted whole grain bread for a nutritious breakfast.
• Croissants – A flaky croissant with strawberry honey butter adds a touch of sweetness to your morning routine.

With Pancakes or Waffles

• Drizzle over pancakes – Add a dollop of strawberry honey butter on top of fluffy pancakes for a fresh flavor boost.
• Waffle topping – Use it as a delicious topping for crispy waffles, paired with fresh strawberries.

As a Dip

• Fruit platter – Serve strawberry honey butter alongside sliced fruits like apples and bananas for a sweet dip.
• Crackers – Pair with buttery crackers for an easy appetizer that impresses guests.

In Desserts

• Muffins – Use strawberry honey butter as a filling for muffins or as a spread on freshly baked ones.
• Ice cream topping – Melt it slightly and drizzle over vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

How to Perfect Strawberry Honey Butter

To achieve the best results with your strawberry honey butter, follow these tips to enhance its flavor and texture.

• Choose ripe strawberries – Using fresh, ripe strawberries will ensure your butter has the best natural sweetness and flavor.
• Blend until smooth – A smooth puree will give your strawberry honey butter a creamy texture, making it easier to spread.
• Monitor cooking time – Keep an eye on the cooking process to achieve the right thickness; too little time may result in runny butter.
• Adjust sweetness – Feel free to tweak sugar and honey amounts based on your taste preferences; this allows customization of flavors.
• Seal jars properly – Ensure lids are sealed correctly during canning to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Honey Butter

Serving strawberry honey butter alongside these tasty side dishes can create an enjoyable meal experience. Here are some perfect pairings:

1. Biscuits – Flaky homemade biscuits complement the sweetness of strawberry honey butter beautifully.
2. Scones – Lemon or blueberry scones provide a delightful contrast, enhancing your tea time treats.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit, then add a spoonful of strawberry honey butter for extra flavor.
4. Cheese Platter – Incorporate soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese; they pair wonderfully with the sweet and tangy notes of the butter.
5. Savory Bread – Serve with rosemary focaccia or artisanal bread for an interesting flavor combination.
6. Oatmeal – Stir some into warm oatmeal for added sweetness and fruity richness at breakfast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making strawberry honey butter can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip sterilizing jars: Always ensure your jars are properly sterilized. This prevents spoilage and ensures safety.
• Boldly ignore the consistency: Cook until the mixture is thick enough to hold shape on a spoon. If it’s too runny, it won’t set properly.
• Boldly overlook the headspace: Leave a 1/4 inch headspace when filling jars. This allows for expansion during processing.
• Boldly rush cooling time: Let your jars cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Rushing this step can compromise the seal.
• Boldly neglect checking seals: After cooling, always check that the lids are sealed correctly. If they flex when pressed, reprocess them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store strawberry honey butter in airtight containers.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Freezing Strawberry Honey Butter

• For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Use within 6 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Honey Butter

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) on medium power. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making strawberry honey butter, here are some common questions and answers.

What is Strawberry Honey Butter?

Strawberry honey butter is a sweet spread made from fresh strawberries, honey, and butter-like consistency, perfect for toast or pancakes.

How long does Strawberry Honey Butter last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, strawberry honey butter can last up to 3 weeks. If frozen, it remains good for about 6 months.

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just thaw them first before blending into a puree.

Is Strawberry Honey Butter suitable for canning?

Absolutely! This recipe includes steps for safe canning, allowing you to enjoy your preserves later.

Final Thoughts

This strawberry honey butter recipe is an easy way to elevate your breakfast or snack time. It’s not only delicious but also offers versatility with different berries or sweeteners. Feel free to customize it with spices like cinnamon or add nuts for extra texture!