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If you’re searching for a festive, flavorful addition to your holiday table, look no further than Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter. This sweet and tangy spread brings together the tart burst of cranberries with the velvety richness of butter and the warmth of honey. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch, holiday dinner, or gifting it in cute jars, it’s guaranteed to make an impression.

The beauty of this butter lies in its simplicity. In just minutes, you can whip up a batch that elevates everything from warm rolls and pancakes to roasted sweet potatoes. It’s the kind of homemade touch that guests remember and ask about for years to come.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter

This butter is not only stunning to look at with its ruby red hue but it’s also loaded with festive flavor. It blends the natural tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of honey, balanced perfectly by creamy, salted butter. It’s a dreamy spread that feels indulgent without being overly fussy.

It also stores well and makes a great edible gift. Pack it into small glass jars, add a little ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade present that anyone would love to receive.

Can I Use Fresh or Dried Cranberries for This?

Fresh or frozen cranberries work best for this recipe, as they break down easily and deliver a bold tartness that balances the sweetness of the honey. Dried cranberries can be used in a pinch, but you’ll need to rehydrate them in hot water or juice first. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Ingredients for the Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter

The ingredients for this festive butter are simple yet full of flavor. Each component plays a role in building that signature sweet-tart profile.

Unsalted Butter – Softened to room temperature, this is the creamy base that carries the other flavors beautifully.

Fresh Cranberries – Their tartness cuts through the richness and gives this butter its brilliant color.

Honey – Adds warm sweetness that complements the tart cranberries and softens their sharp edges.

Orange Zest (optional) – A little citrus zing brightens the overall flavor and adds a note of holiday cheer.

Salt (if using unsalted butter) – Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.

How To Make the Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter

Step 1: Cook the Cranberries

In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries and a splash of water. Cook over medium heat until they start to pop and soften, about 5 to 7 minutes. Mash them slightly with the back of a spoon to release their juices. Let them cool.

Step 2: Whip the Butter

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the softened butter until light and fluffy. This gives the butter a spreadable texture and helps it absorb the cranberry and honey flavors.

Step 3: Add Cranberries and Honey

Add the cooled cranberries, honey, and orange zest (if using) to the butter. Mix until everything is well incorporated and the butter takes on a pink hue with flecks of cranberry.

Step 4: Adjust Flavor

Taste the butter and adjust the sweetness by adding a little more honey if desired. If you’re using unsalted butter, a pinch of salt can round out the flavors nicely.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Transfer the butter to a serving dish or jars. Chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

How to Serve and Store Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter

This festive butter can feed a crowd depending on how it’s used. One batch typically serves about 8 to 10 people when paired with bread or biscuits at the table.

Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container or sealed jar. It will keep fresh for up to 10 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just bring it back to room temperature before using.

If you’re gifting it, small glass jars with lids make a beautiful and practical presentation. Tie a ribbon around the top and add a handwritten label for a cozy, homemade touch.

What to Serve With Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter?

Warm Dinner Rolls

The most classic pairing. This butter melts beautifully onto freshly baked rolls.

Pancakes or Waffles

Spread a generous layer on your favorite breakfast stack for a sweet and tangy twist.

Cornbread

The tart-sweet butter adds a vibrant contrast to the hearty, crumbly cornbread texture.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Dab a spoonful onto hot roasted sweet potatoes and let the magic happen.

Scones or Biscuits

It pairs especially well with buttery baked goods for an extra rich treat.

French Toast

Swap out your syrup for a swipe of cranberry honey butter—next level delicious.

Turkey or Ham Sandwiches

Add a festive layer of flavor by spreading this butter on sandwich bread.

Want More Holiday Spread Ideas?

If you’re into seasonal spreads that surprise and delight, check out these festive options too:

• Try the nostalgic comfort of Pumpkin Bread with Maple Cream Cheese Filling for another sweet holiday addition.
• Love fruit and cheese combos? You’ll enjoy Cranberry Brie Sourdough Pull-Apart Bread.
• Add a savory counterpart with the creamy and delicious Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly.
• Make it a brunch spread with Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad as a savory balance.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with orange zest or skip it? Did you serve it on toast or pair it with something unexpected?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake and gift smarter.

Explore beautifully curated spreads and sweet treats on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next holiday favorite: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter is the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and creamy—a simple yet festive way to elevate your holiday table. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a vibrant and versatile spread that guests will remember long after the meal is over. Whether you serve it or gift it, it brings homemade cheer in every bite.

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