This vibrant cranberry orange pecan compound butter blends tangy cranberries, zesty orange, and the rich crunch of pecans into creamy butter, creating a versatile spread that uplifts any meal. In just minutes, you can transform everyday rolls, biscuits, or breakfast favorites like pancakes and waffles into something truly special. Let this bright, enticing spread become a new tradition, something you’ll want to share year after year with family and friends.
Add this sweet and tangy condiment to your next holiday celebration. Its vibrant color and citrusy aroma hint at the layers of flavor hidden within—the delicate sweetness of cranberries, the subtle brightness of orange zest, and the rich warmth of pecans. Spread it on your favorite breads or spoon it over warm pancakes for a treat that feels both festive and comforting. Quick and easy to prepare, this compound butter is ready whenever you need a pop of flavor and a dash of elegance.
Ingredients For cranberry orange pecan butter
- 1 stick salted butter, room temperature (about 1/2 cup [about 115 g])
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar (about 25 g)
- 2 tablespoons jellied cranberry sauce (about 30 ml)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped dried cranberries (about 15 g)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (about 5 g)
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange juice (about 5 ml)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (about 60 g)
How To Make cranberry orange pecan butter
- Finely chop the dried cranberries and set them aside.
- Zest the orange and squeeze out its juice, setting both aside.
- In a large bowl, stir together the room-temperature butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the jellied cranberry sauce, dried cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice to the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly with a spoon until well combined.
- Place the butter mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper, shaping it into a log.
- Roll the parchment paper around the butter, pressing gently to form a uniform log.
- Trim any excess parchment and place the butter log into a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to firm up.
- Unwrap the chilled butter log and sprinkle the chopped pecans over the parchment paper.
- Roll the butter log in the pecans, pressing them into the surface to coat evenly.
- Fill in any empty spots with additional pecans.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
As you slice into this jewel-toned butter and watch it melt atop warm bread, take a moment to appreciate the layers of flavor you’ve created. The tangy cranberries, fragrant orange zest, and subtle crunch of pecans turn a simple dairy staple into a gourmet accent. Its versatility allows you to experiment—pair it with savory dishes, incorporate it into a dessert, or simply enjoy it spread on toast with a cup of coffee. In its essence, this compound butter reminds us how small culinary touches can transform an ordinary meal into a cherished memory. Enjoy!
