Old Fashioned Butter: A Culinary Celebration

There’s something magical about the scent of bourbon and citrus mingling in the air, a fragrance that instantly transports me back to cozy holiday gatherings. My grandfather, a true Old Fashioned aficionado, always had a batch of his signature cocktail ready to share. This Old Fashioned Butter captures that same spirit of warmth and indulgence, transforming a classic drink into a delectable spread that elevates any meal into a festive occasion. It’s a taste of nostalgia, reimagined for the modern table.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (soaking time varies)
• Total Time: 5 minutes (plus 2-12 hours soaking)
• Yields: 1 butter log
• Dietary Type: Not Specified (Contains Dairy)

Ingredients

• ¼ cup Bourbon
• ½ cup dried cherries
• 1 cup salted butter, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons orange zest, freshly grated
• 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar (to taste)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon Angostura bitters or 1 tablespoon additional Bourbon

Equipment Needed

• Small bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (fitted with the paddle) or wooden spoon
• Rubber spatula
• Small bowl, serving crock or butter mold, or grease-proof paper (plastic, wax or parchment)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, soak the dried cherries in the Bourbon. Stir occasionally, ensuring the cherries are well coated. Allow the cherries to soak until the Bourbon is almost completely absorbed. This process can take anywhere from 2 to 12 hours, depending on the dryness of the cherries and the ambient temperature. The longer they soak, the more intense the flavor will be.

2. Place the softened butter in a medium mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer (fitted with the paddle attachment) or a sturdy wooden spoon, beat the butter until it becomes light and fluffy. This process is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy final product. Properly creamed butter will readily incorporate the other ingredients.

3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure all the butter is evenly creamed. This prevents any unincorporated butter from remaining at the bottom of the bowl.

4. Add the soaked cherries (including any remaining Bourbon), freshly grated orange zest, and confectioners’ sugar to the bowl. If desired, incorporate the optional Angostura bitters or additional Bourbon at this stage.

5. Beat to incorporate all the ingredients thoroughly, scraping the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Continue mixing until the mixture is uniform in color and texture, ensuring the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the butter. Avoid overmixing, which can cause the butter to become greasy.

6. Scrape the Old Fashioned Butter into a small bowl or serving crock for immediate use. Alternatively, for longer storage and elegant presentation, shape the butter into a log using grease-proof paper (plastic wrap, wax paper, or parchment paper).

7. Cover the butter tightly regardless of the storage method to prevent it from absorbing odors from the refrigerator.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your butter is truly at room temperature before starting. This will make creaming much easier and result in a smoother final product. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be very careful not to melt it.
• Zest with Precision: When zesting the orange, be sure to only zest the outer layer of the peel, avoiding the white pith underneath, as it can be bitter. A microplane is ideal for creating fine zest.
• Customize the Sweetness: The amount of confectioners’ sugar can be adjusted to suit your personal preference. Start with the recommended amount and taste, adding more if desired.
• Infuse the Bourbon: For an even deeper flavor, consider infusing the bourbon with orange peel and a few dashes of Angostura bitters a day or two before making the butter. Strain before using.
• Perfect Presentation: To create a beautifully shaped butter log, roll the butter tightly in parchment paper, twisting the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the butter to firm up before slicing.
• Don’t Toss the Bourbon: If there’s any Bourbon left after soaking the cherries, don’t toss it! Add it to an Old Fashioned cocktail, or drizzle it over ice cream.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Old Fashioned Butter is incredibly versatile. It’s delicious spread on warm bread, rolls, or muffins. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like pork, ham, duck, and turkey, adding a touch of sweetness and complexity. Try baking it inside an acorn squash or tossing it with roasted carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes for a flavorful side dish.

Store the butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap the butter tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
The butter is best served slightly chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. If frozen, let the butter sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes prior to serving to soften slightly.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	1865.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	1657 g	89%
Total Fat	184.2 g	283%
Saturated Fat	116.6 g	583%
Cholesterol	488.1 mg	162%
Sodium	1308.6 mg	54%
Total Carbohydrate	19.1 g	6%
Dietary Fiber	1.3 g	5%
Sugars	15.8 g	63%
Protein	2.1 g	4%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spiced Cherry Bourbon Butter: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the butter for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Maple Bourbon Butter: Substitute the confectioners’ sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.
• Citrus Variation: Experiment with different citrus zests, such as lemon, grapefruit, or blood orange, to create unique flavor profiles.
• Nutty Addition: Incorporate toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
• Smoked Bourbon Butter: Use smoked bourbon for a smoky and savory twist.
• Non-Alcoholic Option: For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the bourbon with strong brewed tea or orange juice concentrate.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
A: Yes, you can use unsalted butter. However, you may need to add a pinch of salt to taste to balance the sweetness.

Q: How long will the Old Fashioned Butter last?
A: The butter will last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer.

Q: Can I use different types of dried fruit?
A: Absolutely! Dried cranberries, apricots, or figs would all be delicious substitutions for the dried cherries.

Q: Can I make this butter ahead of time?
A: Yes, this butter can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Q: What if I don’t have an electric mixer?
A: You can still make this butter by hand using a wooden spoon. It will require a bit more elbow grease, but the results will be just as delicious. Make sure your butter is very soft to allow you to cream it properly.

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to try this Old Fashioned Butter and experience the delightful fusion of classic cocktail flavors in a versatile and delicious spread. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply looking for a way to elevate your everyday meals, this butter is sure to impress. Feel free to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create your own signature version. And don’t hesitate to share your feedback and experiences – I’d love to hear how you’ve made this recipe your own! Consider pairing this delightful butter with a perfectly roasted turkey and a classic Old Fashioned cocktail for the ultimate holiday indulgence.