Herb-infused butters—also known as compound butters—are one of the simplest ways to add instant flavor and aroma to any dish. Whether you’re spreading it over bread, melting it on grilled vegetables, or finishing a perfectly seared steak, herb butter adds richness and complexity that elevate everyday cooking.
With just a few ingredients—fresh herbs, spices, and butter—you can create endless flavor combinations that transform simple meals into gourmet experiences.
What Is Herb-Infused Butter?
Herb-infused butter is butter that’s been blended with fresh or dried herbs, spices, and sometimes citrus or garlic. As the butter softens, it absorbs the flavors and oils from the herbs, creating a smooth, aromatic spread.
It can be savory, sweet, or spicy depending on the herbs and seasonings used. Once made, herb butter can be stored in the fridge or freezer, ready to enhance meats, pasta, seafood, vegetables, and bread.
How to Make Herb-Infused Butter
Ingredients:
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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
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2–3 tablespoons fresh herbs (or 1 tablespoon dried herbs)
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1 teaspoon salt (optional)
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Optional: garlic, lemon zest, or chili flakes
Instructions:
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Allow the butter to reach room temperature until soft.
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Finely chop your herbs and mix them into the butter with a fork or hand mixer.
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Add salt, zest, or additional spices as desired.
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Transfer to parchment paper, roll into a log, and chill until firm.
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Slice or scoop as needed for cooking and serving.
This simple process allows for endless creativity—you can mix and match herbs and spices based on your dish or personal taste.
Herb and Spice Combinations to Try
1. Garlic and Parsley Butter
Perfect for bread, seafood, and grilled meats. Combine butter with minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of black pepper.
2. Rosemary and Thyme Butter
Great for roasted vegetables, potatoes, or baked chicken. The woody herbs infuse the butter with deep, savory aroma.
3. Basil and Lemon Butter
Bright and zesty, ideal for pasta, white fish, or corn on the cob. Add lemon zest for freshness.
4. Dill and Chive Butter
Use with salmon, roasted carrots, or baked potatoes. This blend adds mild onion flavor with a touch of freshness.
5. Smoked Paprika and Chili Butter
Adds a warm, smoky heat to grilled vegetables, corn, or steak. A touch of lime zest enhances the flavor.
6. Honey and Cinnamon Butter
A sweet twist for breakfast or baking—spread on toast, muffins, or pancakes for a comforting treat.
Creative Ways to Use Herb-Infused Butter
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Finish cooked meats: Add a slice of herb butter over hot steak, chicken, or fish before serving.
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Toss with pasta or rice: Melt over warm grains or noodles for instant flavor.
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Use in sautéing: Replace plain butter or oil when cooking vegetables.
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Spread on bread: Use as a flavorful alternative to margarine or plain butter.
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Melt over grilled corn or roasted potatoes: Adds richness and seasoning in one step.
Storage Tips for Herb Butters
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
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Freeze: Wrap in parchment and freeze for up to three months. Slice off portions as needed.
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Label and date: Especially helpful when you make multiple varieties.
Allow frozen butter to soften slightly before use for easy slicing and spreading.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herb-Infused Butter
1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third the amount you would use for fresh herbs.
2. How long does herb butter last?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks and can be frozen for up to three months.
3. What’s the best butter to use?
Unsalted butter works best since it lets you control the seasoning. High-quality butter will result in better flavor.
4. Can I use spice blends in herb butter?
Absolutely. Blends like Italian seasoning, Cajun spice, or curry powder create flavorful variations.
5. How do I make sweet herb butters?
Combine butter with honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla for sweet versions ideal for breakfast or baking.
6. Can I use herb butter for cooking?
Yes. Herb butter can replace oil or plain butter in sautéing, roasting, or grilling to add flavor while cooking.
Final Thoughts
Herb-infused butters are a simple yet elegant way to bring more flavor to your meals. With endless herb and spice combinations, you can customize them to suit any dish—from savory dinners to sweet breakfasts. Keeping a few varieties of herb butter on hand ensures you always have a quick, delicious way to enhance your cooking and impress at the table.
