Elevate your everyday breakfast or afternoon tea with this luxurious Citrus Blossom Butter. Infused with fresh citrus zest, floral orange blossom water, and a touch of honey, this whipped compound butter is as elegant as it is flavorful. Its light floral aroma and bright citrus notes make it a perfect match for warm baked goods, brunch spreads, or simply spreading on toast for a touch of gourmet indulgence.
Whether you’re hosting a spring gathering, preparing a thoughtful homemade gift, or looking to enhance your morning routine, this butter delivers an experience that’s both refreshing and unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Butter
- Flavorful & Aromatic – The combination of orange, lemon, and floral essence adds layers of brightness and complexity.
- Easy to Prepare – Ready in minutes, this recipe requires no cooking and minimal cleanup.
- Versatile Use – Spread it on scones, pancakes, muffins, or even melt it over roasted vegetables for a sweet twist.
- Elegant Presentation – Rolled into a log or stored in a glass jar, it makes a beautiful addition to any brunch table or gift basket.
What You’ll Need
Equipment:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus zester or microplane
- Parchment paper or small jar
- Spoon or spatula for shaping
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: edible flower petals (such as chamomile or calendula) for added elegance and flavor
How to Make Citrus Blossom Butter
1. Cream the Butter
Place the softened butter in a medium bowl and beat it with a hand mixer or spatula until it becomes light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is essential to achieve a smooth and spreadable texture.
2. Add Flavorings
Mix in the orange zest, lemon zest, orange blossom water, honey, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Beat again until everything is fully combined and the butter is evenly flavored.
3. Adjust to Taste
Taste the butter and adjust the flavor to your preference—add a bit more honey for sweetness or more orange blossom water for a stronger floral note.
4. Add Petals (Optional)
If using edible flower petals, gently fold them in with a spoon or spatula. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delicate floral undertone.
5. Shape & Store
Spoon the butter onto parchment paper and roll it into a log, twisting the ends to seal. Alternatively, spoon the butter into a decorative jar or ramekin.
6. Chill to Set
Refrigerate the butter for at least 1–2 hours, or until it’s firm and the flavors have melded. For best results, let it rest overnight.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the butter log or scoop from the jar and spread onto toast, biscuits, pancakes, or fresh-from-the-oven scones. The butter will melt slightly and release its aromatic essence with every bite.
Tips & Variations
- Make Ahead – Prepare the butter a day in advance to let the flavors fully develop.
- Storage – Keeps in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.
- Flavor Variations – Swap orange blossom water for rose water for a floral twist, or add a touch of cinnamon for warmth.
- Presentation Idea – Roll the butter log in dried edible petals before chilling for a show-stopping brunch centerpiece or edible gift.
Creative Ways to Use Citrus Blossom Butter
While Citrus Blossom Butter is heavenly on toast or scones, its versatility makes it a standout ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. Here are some imaginative ways to enjoy this floral-infused butter beyond breakfast:
1. Pancake or Waffle Topper
Skip the syrup and melt a pat of Citrus Blossom Butter over warm pancakes or waffles. The citrus and honey create a naturally sweet glaze that elevates your stack with little effort.
2. Scone Companion
Serve alongside freshly baked scones during a tea party or brunch. The floral notes pair especially well with berry or lavender scones.
3. Glaze for Roasted Carrots or Sweet Potatoes
Toss roasted vegetables with a dollop of this butter straight out of the oven. The citrus and honey complement the natural sweetness of root vegetables beautifully.
4. Corn on the Cob Upgrade
Brush warm corn on the cob with Citrus Blossom Butter in place of traditional butter. It’s unexpected and delicious, with subtle floral undertones.
5. Melted Over Seafood
Add a spoonful to grilled or pan-seared fish like salmon, cod, or shrimp. The citrus cuts through the richness, and the honey gives a lovely glaze.
6. Spread for Tea Sandwiches
Use it as a base layer on thinly sliced bread before adding cucumbers or fruit preserves. It adds an elegant twist to traditional finger sandwiches.
7. Cake or Muffin Filling
Use it as a soft filling for cupcakes or layer it between cake layers, especially lemon, vanilla, or berry-flavored bakes.
8. Stir into Hot Cereal
Swirl a spoonful into warm oatmeal, cream of wheat, or rice pudding. The butter adds richness and floral sweetness in one step.
9. Pair with Cheese
Serve on a cheese board as a sweet spread next to goat cheese, brie, or even a mild blue cheese. It’s an excellent complement to soft, creamy varieties.
10. Finish a Sauce
Whisk a bit of the butter into pan sauces right before serving to add body, gloss, and a surprising layer of bright, floral flavor.
A Perfect Spread for Any Occasion
Citrus Blossom Butter adds a delicate sophistication to everyday meals and special occasions alike. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and sure to impress guests with its fragrance and flavor. From casual breakfasts to elegant brunch tables, this butter transforms simple dishes into something extraordinary.
Whether you’re spreading it on warm scones or gifting it in a glass jar tied with ribbon, Citrus Blossom Butter brings a touch of sunshine and elegance to every bite.
Citrus Blossom Butter
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus zester or grater
- Parchment paper or small jar
- – Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: edible flower petals like calendula or chamomile
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or spatula until light and fluffy.
- Add the orange zest, lemon zest, orange blossom water, honey, vanilla extract (if using), and salt. Beat again until fully combined.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or floral intensity as desired.
- Gently fold in the edible flower petals, if using.
- Spoon the butter onto parchment paper and roll it into a log shape, or place into a small jar or ramekin.
- Chill in the refrigerator until firm and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve on toast, muffins, biscuits, pancakes, or scones for a bright, citrusy twist.