Rhubarb Butter

Rhubarb Butter 🍎🍯

This Rhubarb Butter is a sweet, tangy, and aromatic spread that’s perfect for toast, pancakes, yogurt, or even as a glaze for meats. Made with fresh rhubarb, apples, honey, and warm spices, this vibrant butter is easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s a delightful way to preserve the essence of rhubarb season and enjoy its unique taste all year round.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Rhubarb Butter step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Sweet & Tangy : The combination of rhubarb and apple creates a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
2. Versatile : Use it on toast, desserts, oatmeal, or even as a pairing for savory dishes like roasted.
3. Easy to Make : Just chop, simmer, and blend—no fancy equipment required.
4. Customizable : Adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste.
5. Perfect for Gifting : Jar it up and share with friends and family for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients

(Makes about 1½ cups)

• 4 stalks of rhubarb (about 4 cups, chopped ) 🌿
• 1 apple , cored and cut into chunks 🍎
• ½ cup honey (adjust to taste ) 🍯
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 🌼
• ¼–½ teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste ) 🌰
• Optional : A pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth ⚫

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Wash and chop the rhubarb into small pieces (discard any leaves, as they are toxic).
2. Core and chop the apple into chunks—no need to peel unless you prefer a smoother texture.

Step 2: Simmer the Mixture

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb , apple chunks , and honey . Stir to coat the fruit evenly with the honey.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and breaks down (about 15–20 minutes ).
   • Tip : If the mixture starts to stick, add a splash of water or apple juice to loosen it.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

1. Once the fruit is soft and mushy, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
   • Alternative : Transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids—work in batches and vent the lid.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

1. Stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon . Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level as needed.
   • Optional : Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a deeper flavor profile.

Step 5: Thicken the Butter

1. Return the pureed mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency (about 10–15 minutes ).
   • Tip : To test thickness, place a spoonful on a plate—if it holds its shape without spreading too much, it’s ready.

Step 6: Store or Serve

1. Let the rhubarb butter cool completely before transferring it to a clean jar or airtight container.
2. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage (up to 6 months ).

Tips for Success

1. Adjust Sweetness : Start with ½ cup of honey and taste as you go. Add more if the rhubarb is particularly tart.
2. Use Different Sweeteners : Substitute maple syrup, brown sugar, or granulated sugar for honey if preferred.
3. Experiment with Spices : Try adding ginger, cardamom, or allspice for a unique twist.
4. Make Ahead : Double the recipe and store extra jars in the freezer for future use.
5. Pair with Savory Dishes : Use rhubarb butter as a glaze for roasted chicken, or lamb for a sweet-tangy contrast.

Perfect Pairings

This Rhubarb Butter pairs beautifully with:

• Toast or Bagels : Spread on warm toast, bagels, or English muffins for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Yogurt or Oatmeal : Swirl into yogurt or drizzle over oatmeal for added flavor.
• Desserts : Use as a filling for thumbprint cookies, tarts, or crepes.
• Cheese Plates : Pair with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a tangy-sweet combination.

Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon, Approx.)

(Based on 16 servings)

• Calories : ~30 kcal
• Protein : ~0g
• Carbohydrates : ~8g
• Fat : ~0g
• Fiber : ~0.5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Rhubarb Butter is a sweet, tangy, and versatile spread that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re slathering it on toast, swirling it into yogurt, or using it as a glaze for meats, this butter is as practical as it is delicious. The combination of rhubarb, apple, honey, and warm spices creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is vibrant.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the sweetness, adjust the spices, or pair it with different foods to make it your own. So grab your rhubarb, chop those apples, and get ready to enjoy a spread that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.