Hello friends!

I don’t know about you all, but for me, the holidays are all about cozy mornings, warm kitchens, and the little things that make the season feel magical. One of my absolute favorite traditions is having something sweet and special to spread on our morning rolls or toast while everyone gathers around the kitchen table.

This year, I wanted to share a recipe that has quickly become a staple in my holiday celebrations: Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter.

It’s sweet, tangy, and just festive enough to make even the simplest slice of bread feel like a treat. Honestly, once you try this, I promise you’ll want to make a double batch because everyone will be sneaking bites straight from the bowl!

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Why I Love This Cranberry Honey Butter

I’ve always loved the idea of combining simple ingredients into something that feels luxurious. The smooth, creamy butter pairs beautifully with the tartness of cranberries and the natural sweetness of honey. And the best part? It’s completely customizable. Want it sweeter? Add a little more honey. Want a little zing? A touch of orange zest does wonders.

Every year, I make a batch and serve it with warm rolls on Christmas morning. Watching my family enjoy it—some with a little extra honey drizzled on top—is one of my favorite holiday moments. It’s these little traditions that make the season feel so special, don’t you think?

Also check out this – Crockpot Christmas Jam

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I like to keep things simple, using ingredients you likely already have or can easily find in your local grocery store:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 3–4 tablespoons honey, depending on how sweet you like it
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, but it gives that festive holiday aroma)
• A pinch of salt

That’s it! Nothing complicated—just ingredients that come together to create something magical.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s the method I follow every year. I’ve included tips along the way to help you get perfect results:

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries

If you’re using fresh cranberries, give them a quick rinse and remove any stems. Then, you can either:

• Chop them finely with a knife, or
• Pulse them in a food processor for a finer texture.

Optional: For a slightly softer and sweeter flavor, simmer the cranberries in 1 tablespoon of water with 1 tablespoon of honey for 3–5 minutes until they just start to soften. Let them cool completely before adding to the butter. This is especially nice if you’re making the butter ahead of time.

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Step 2: Beat the Butter Until Creamy

Place your softened butter in a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the butter for 2–3 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and creamy.

Tip: Room temperature butter is essential. If it’s too cold, it won’t blend smoothly; too warm, and it’ll be runny. I usually leave mine out for about 30–45 minutes before mixing.

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Step 3: Add Honey, Vanilla, and Orange Zest

Once your butter is creamy, add 3–4 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the orange zest. Mix on low speed until fully combined. Taste at this point—if you want it sweeter, add a little more honey.

Mom tip: A pinch of salt really enhances the flavors. Even if you use salted butter, I still add just a small pinch.

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Step 4: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold in the prepared cranberries using a spatula. You want to keep the cranberries slightly chunky so each bite has bursts of tart flavor and a festive red color.

Optional: For a smoother spread, pulse the cranberries a little more, but I personally love the texture when it’s chunky.

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Step 5: Chill or Serve

At this point, your Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter is ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately, or for a firmer consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and chill for 30–60 minutes. Chilling also helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

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Tips & Tricks

• Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a cozy holiday twist.
• Presentation: Garnish with whole cranberries or chopped pistachios for a beautiful holiday touch.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Gift Idea: Spoon the butter into a small jar, tie with a festive ribbon, and you’ve got a homemade gift your neighbors or friends will love.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them slightly and drain any excess liquid before mixing.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better if you make it a few hours ahead or even the day before—it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How long does it last?
Refrigerated in an airtight container, it lasts about 2 weeks. Frozen, up to 3 months.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes! Maple syrup gives it a slightly different flavor but is just as delicious.

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Serving Suggestions

This butter is versatile and festive. Here’s how I love to enjoy it:

• Spread generously on warm dinner rolls or toast
• Serve with pancakes or waffles for a holiday brunch
• Dollop on cornbread or biscuits for a holiday dinner side
• Use as a topping for baked sweet potatoes for a unique twist

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Final Thoughts

I hope this Christmas Cranberry Honey Butter brings as much warmth and joy to your holiday mornings as it does to mine. It’s simple, beautiful, and full of flavor—the kind of recipe that makes your house smell like Christmas and your family’s faces light up.

So go ahead, make a batch, spread it on something warm, and enjoy a little holiday magic in every bite. And if you do try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out!

Happy holidays, friends! ❤️