Description: A delightful and naturally sweet spread capturing the tangy zest of rhubarb perfectly balanced with the warm sweetness of honey and subtle spice of cinnamon. This Rhubarb Honey Butter is incredibly versatile, perfect for slathering on toast, scones, or pancakes, stirring into oatmeal or yogurt, or even using as a glaze for roasted meats. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavor, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy rhubarb season.
Ingredients:
- 4 stalks of rhubarb (about 4 cups, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 1 medium apple (cored, peeled or unpeeled based on preference, and cut into chunks)
- 1/2 cup honey (local, raw honey is highly recommended for its flavor and health benefits)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract delivers the best flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or up to 1/2 teaspoon, depending on your preference)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adds a bright tanginess and helps preserve the color)
- Optional: Pinch of ground ginger (for a warm, spicy note)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of butter (to create richer, more buttery flavor)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb and Apple: Wash the rhubarb stalks thoroughly and trim off the leafy ends. Chop the rhubarb into 1/2-inch pieces. Core the apple and cut it into chunks. Peeling the apple is optional; leaving the peel on will add a bit more fiber and a slightly different texture to the butter. Step 2: Puree the Fruit: In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped rhubarb and apple chunks. Pulse until the mixture is mostly smooth. Don’t over-process it into a completely liquid state; a slightly chunky texture is desirable for the final product. If you prefer a completely smooth butter, blend until perfectly smooth. Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Pot: Pour the pureed rhubarb and apple mixture into a medium-sized saucepan or pot. Add the honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and the optional lemon juice and ginger (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Step 4: Simmer and Thicken: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. Stir frequently, especially as the mixture begins to thicken. Step 5: Cook to Desired Consistency: Continue simmering for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the butter has thickened to your desired consistency. The cooking time will vary depending on the moisture content of the rhubarb and apple, as well as the intensity of the heat. Stir frequently, paying close attention to the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking and burning. The butter is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and a line holds when you run your finger through it. Add in your tablespoon of butter (optional) and mix thoroughly. Step 6: Cool and Store: Remove the pot from the heat and let the Rhubarb Honey Butter cool slightly. As it cools, it will thicken further. Step 7: Transfer to Jar(s): Transfer the Rhubarb Honey Butter to a clean glass jar or jars. If you plan to store the butter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, ensure the jars are clean and airtight. For longer storage, follow canning procedures (see canning tips below). Step 8: Refrigerate and Enjoy: Allow the Rhubarb Honey Butter to cool completely before sealing the jar(s) and refrigerating. Once cooled, it will continue to thicken. The butter will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Unique and Flavorful: Rhubarb Honey Butter offers a delightful twist on traditional fruit spreads. The tartness of the rhubarb is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of honey and the warmth of cinnamon, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients.
- Versatile: Rhubarb Honey Butter is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from a simple spread on toast to a glaze for roasted meats.
- Seasonal Delight: Rhubarb is a springtime favorite, and this recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the season’s bounty.
- Naturally Sweetened: This recipe relies primarily on honey for sweetness, making it a healthier alternative to many commercially produced fruit spreads.
- Great Homemade Gift: Rhubarb Honey Butter makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift for friends and family.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness, spice level, and other flavorings to suit your personal preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Spread on toast, English muffins, bagels, or croissants.
- Dollop on pancakes, waffles, or crepes.
- Stir into oatmeal, yogurt, or granola.
- Use as a filling for thumbprint cookies or mini tarts.
- Serve alongside cheese and crackers.
- Use as a glaze for roasted chicken, pork, or ham.
- Mix into a vinaigrette for a tangy salad dressing.
- Serve with scones and clotted cream for a delightful afternoon tea treat.
- Stir into hot tea or lemonade for a unique flavor boost.
Tips:
- Canning for Longer Storage: For longer storage, you can process the Rhubarb Honey Butter using standard canning procedures. Make sure to use sterilized jars and lids and follow a tested canning recipe to ensure proper sealing and prevent spoilage. Note: Because this recipe is primarily fruit-based, it is recommended to use a water bath canner.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter butter, you can add more honey to taste. Start with an extra tablespoon at a time and adjust until you reach your desired sweetness level.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices, such as ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, or cloves, to add depth and complexity to the flavor.
- Lemon Juice for Brightness: Adding a tablespoon of lemon juice not only brightens the flavor of the Rhubarb Honey Butter but also helps to preserve its vibrant color.
- Texture Preference: For a smoother butter, blend the rhubarb and apple mixture until completely smooth before cooking. For a chunkier texture, pulse the mixture a few times until it is coarsely chopped.
- Choosing Rhubarb: Select firm, crisp rhubarb stalks with bright pink or red color. Avoid rhubarb that is limp or wilted. The color of the rhubarb stalks does not affect the flavor.
- Storing Rhubarb: Fresh rhubarb can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap the stalks in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15-20 minutes Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per tablespoon)
- Calories: 35
- Protein: Less than 1g
- Sodium: Less than 1mg
Conclusion:
This Rhubarb Honey Butter recipe offers a delicious and simple way to enjoy the tart and tangy flavor of rhubarb. Its versatility makes it a welcome addition to your breakfast table, afternoon tea spread, or even your savory dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress with its ease of preparation and delightful taste. Embrace the springtime bounty of rhubarb and create this unforgettable spread that will brighten your day.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen rhubarb! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing it with the apple. Using frozen rhubarb is a great way to enjoy this recipe year-round, even when fresh rhubarb is not in season. The taste and texture will be very similar to using fresh rhubarb. Thaw it well, drain it to remove excess water, and proceed with the recipe as written.
Q2: How long will the Rhubarb Honey Butter last?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the Rhubarb Honey Butter will last for up to 2 weeks. If you follow canning procedures, it can last much longer – typically up to a year or more in a cool, dark place. Always check for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off odor, before consuming. If you notice any changes, discard the butter.
Q3: Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of honey?
A: Yes, you can substitute the honey with other natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different depending on the sweetener you choose. Maple syrup will impart a richer, more caramel-like flavor, while agave nectar will have a milder, more neutral sweetness. Adjust the amount of sweetener to taste, as some sweeteners may be sweeter than honey.
Q4: What if my Rhubarb Honey Butter doesn’t thicken enough?
A: If your Rhubarb Honey Butter isn’t thickening as much as you’d like, continue simmering it over low heat for a longer period. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent it from sticking or burning. You can also add a teaspoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to the mixture while it’s simmering. Stir well and continue simmering until the butter thickens to your desired consistency.
Q5: Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Adding a cup of chopped strawberries or raspberries to the rhubarb and apple mixture will create a delicious and colorful variation. Just remember that the added fruit might affect the cooking time and consistency, so keep a close eye on the mixture as it simmers. Adjust cooking time and sweetener as needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
