How To Make Cultured Butter: Simple, Homemade Recipe
By Lisa Bot | Published 15 July 2024
What Is Cultured Butter?
Cultured butter is a type of butter made from cream that has been fermented with live cultures, like yogurt or buttermilk.
This fermentation process gives cultured butter a tangy flavour, different from regular butter. The cultures also make the butter more spreadable and can add some health benefits.
If you've ever wondered what is cultured butter, it's essentially butter with an extra step of fermentation, making it richer and more flavourful.
Why Choose Australian Cultured Butter?
Australian cultured butter is known for its high quality and great taste.
Using local ingredients ensures the best flavour and supports local farmers. Australian dairies produce some of the finest cream, which is perfect for making cultured butter.
Plus, the shorter distance from farm to table means fresher butter for your recipes.
Ingredients And Equipment Needed To Make Cultured Butter At Home
Making cultured butter at home is simple and requires just a few ingredients and tools:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of high-quality heavy cream (not ultra-pasteurised)
- 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt with live cultures, or cultured buttermilk
Equipment:
- Large jar or bowl
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Cheesecloth
- Stand mixer or food processor
- Spatula
Homemade Cultured Butter Recipe
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make cultured butter at home:
- Prepare the Cream:
- Pour the heavy cream into a large jar or bowl.
- Add the yogurt or buttermilk and mix well.
- Cover the jar or bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Ferment the Cream:
- Let the mixture sit at room temperature (around 22-24°C) for 12-24 hours. It will thicken and develop a tangy taste.
- After fermentation, refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour.
- Churn the Butter:
- Pour the fermented cream into a stand mixer or food processor.
- Mix on medium-high speed until the butter separates from the buttermilk. This usually takes a few minutes.
- Drain the buttermilk using a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth. Save the buttermilk for other recipes if you like.
- Wash the Butter:
- Gather the butter in the cheesecloth and rinse it under cold water, squeezing out as much buttermilk as possible. Repeat until the water runs clear.
- Shape and Store the Butter:
- Knead the butter to remove any remaining moisture.
- Shape the butter into a log or pat and wrap it in parchment paper.
- Store in the fridge for up to a month.
What Is The Difference Between Cultured And Uncultured Butter?
The main difference between cultured and uncultured butter is the fermentation process.
Cultured butter is made from cream that has been fermented with live cultures, giving it a tangy flavour and a slightly softer texture.
Uncultured butter, also known as sweet cream butter, is made from fresh cream without fermentation, resulting in a milder taste and firmer texture.
Understanding what is the difference between cultured and uncultured butter can help you choose the right type for your recipes and taste preferences.
How To Use Cultured Butter
Cultured butter can be used just like regular butter, but its unique flavour makes it especially good for certain dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Spreading: Its tangy flavour is perfect for spreading on bread, especially sourdough.
- Cooking: Use it in recipes where the flavour of the butter will shine, like in sauces or to sauté vegetables.
- Baking: It can add a depth of flavour to baked goods like pastries and cakes.
- Finishing: Add a pat of cultured butter to finish a dish, like grilled steak or steamed vegetables.
Want to try cultured butter with bread in Sydney? Cirrus Dining in Barangaroo and Bennelong Restaurant at the Sydney Opera House both serve cultured butter with their bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cultured butter with store-bought cream?
Yes, as long as the cream is not ultra-pasteurised. Ultra-pasteurised cream has been heated to a high temperature, which can kill the bacteria needed for fermentation.
How long does homemade cultured butter last?
When stored properly in the fridge, homemade cultured butter can last up to a month. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
What can I do with the leftover buttermilk?
Buttermilk is great for baking. You can use it in pancakes, muffins, and bread recipes. It adds a nice tangy flavour and helps keep baked goods moist.
Is cultured butter healthier than regular butter?
Cultured butter has some added benefits from the live cultures, which can aid digestion. However, it's still butter and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Can I flavour my cultured butter?
Absolutely! You can add herbs, garlic, or even honey to your butter for different flavours. Just mix in your chosen ingredients after you've finished making the butter.
Conclusion
Making cultured butter at home is a rewarding and delicious project. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy the rich, tangy flavour of cultured butter in all your favourite dishes.
Whether you're spreading it on fresh bread or using it in your cooking, homemade cultured butter is sure to impress. Give it a try and taste the difference for yourself!
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