The concept of butter boards was created in 2017 by Chef Josh McFadden and later popularized by Justine of Justine Snacks in 2022. And here we are in 2024, still obsessed with them. If you’re looking for a fresh and innovative way to impress family and friends, you’ll have to make this simple yet elegant butter board. It’s a fun shareable appetizer that will wow everyone!
Why this recipe works
Multiple butter flavors: I created 4 different compound butter for this board for variety and fun! It’s exciting to make and also allows guests to pick and choose their favorites. It’s just so pretty: it’s undeniably stunning. With all of the colorful toppings and flavors, it’s an artistic centerpiece for parties or gatherings. Perfect for parties: your guests and friends can dip or spread their favorite combinations of butter and toppings onto bread or crackers, making it a fun and engaging communal appetizer.
Ingredient Notes
(For the full list of ingredients and measurements, scroll down to the recipe card below)
Butter: the biggest thing is to make sure your butter is softened to room temperature and you choose a high-quality butter, since it is the main ingredient. Choose a higher butterfat content (around 82-86%) for a creamier texture and richer flavor. Brands like Kerrygold, Président, or Plugrá are great options. Salt: I love using a flaky sea salt to enhance the butter’s richness. Try Maldon or Fleur de sel for a gourmet touch. Garlic: Roasted garlic brings a savory depth of flavor. Herbs: Chives, rosemary, thyme, basil, or parsley add earthy, bright flavors. Spices: feel free to add what you like but spices like black pepper, chili flakes, or even smoked paprika can add a little heat or smokiness and can balance out the butter’s richness. Toppings: honey, zest, edible flowers, fried garlic, chopped nuts, cinnamon.
Step by Step Directions
Be sure to scroll down to the recipe card for the full recipe instructions.
Success Tips
Softened butter: using softened butter will make this process much easier! Allow the butter to sit at room temperature for at least 20-30 minutes before you start. High-Quality Butter: since butter is the star of the show here, splurge on a high quality European butter. These butters typically have a higher fat content and are really creamy with a rich and delicious flavor. Presentation: I love to garnish with edible flowers, fresh herbs, flaky sea salt, or anything that gives the butter an aesthetic flavor boost.
Variations
Make it seasonal: Try a Fall harvest board with roasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, pecans/walnuts, cinnamon and sugar butter, warm toasted bread, apples and pears, etc. Or something more tropical for warmer months with mango, pineapple, macadamia nuts, and light, fruity flavors. Flavors: there are so many routes and options; these are just 4 of my favorites. You can make truffle butter, bacon butter, citrus zest butter, smoked paprika butter, honey butter, vanilla bean butter, etc.
Photography: photos taken in this post are by Megan from The Broke Girl Table.
