Fresh Homemade Butter

When I was in fifth grade my class had the opportunity to experience what life was like back in colonial times.  Sort of.  Each of the students had to bring in a feather to make a quill pen.  My hands were a mess after a day writing with that thing.  When answering a question we had to stand and if I remember correctly, all the girls wore little frilly caps (at least that what I remember).  By far the coolest part of that day was taking a turn to churn butter, which later we each got to try.

Making butter is an easy undertaking, especially in this day and age.  With the availability of a food processor, you can have fresh butter in 10 minutes.  Here's what you do.

If you have read my earlier blog, my family gets their supply of raw milk from a local dairy farmer.  In my case, I skim off the heavy cream that floats to the top and start my butter making.  Otherwise you can purchase heavy cream.


Homemade Butter 

Pour two cups of heavy cream into a food processor or blender.  Add a pinch of salt (optional).  Select the high setting on your food processor if you have that selection and hit start.  Process for 10 minutes.  After 10 minutes your butter will have become clumpy...still with a little leftover liquid.  Drain off the liquid, put the butter into a container.  Take a spoon or spatula and press against the butter to expel as much of the liquid as you can.  Reserve the liquid for your pancakes, because along with the butter, you have created buttermilk.  

Note:  If it is your desire, while your butter is still room temperature, add your favorite herbs for a variety of herb butters to complement meals.  Be creative!

Tarragon Butter   (Great for steak)

• 1/2 cup butter  
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon dried tarragon
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons minced shallots

Optional:  If you have made unsalted butter, salt to taste


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Is this a cost effective way to make butter, not exactly, but it's fun to do and the kids think it's awesome to make and awesome to eat!