We had the idea because we have been racking up recipes we want to try but constantly forget to restock our butter. We are also trying to get closer to the source in terms of our food -- make things on our own rather than buy more expensive processed items with preservatives etc. chemicals whose long-term effects are not known (with a bit of practicality thrown in so we don't go completely crazy but improve our health where we can). Basically, when you make it yourself, you can be pickier about your ingredients and final product.
The Process: it is as simple as purchasing a pint of heavy cream, placing in a 1qt mason jar and tightening the lid [ Mike does that part :) ], then shaking said jar while watching 10 minutes of a Netflix episode of your choice, you almost have butter! Last steps are to pour out the remaining cream (now buttermilk mmmmmm) and mash the butter in a bowl to spoon out the rest. Finally, rinse with cold water. I did that part like hand-wash laundry... fill, swish gently, pour, repeat... ~ 6 times until the wash-off comes clear. Place into container and refrigerate! Ours was set like normal butter in ~1.5 hours.
Well, it turns out that the cost breakdown, according to Stop n Shop, is 1 pint of cream $2.59, 1 box of butter $3.00, and packaged butter has "cream, salt" as its ingredients. So 60cents for the same no-preservative result might not seem like a large payout in this case. But here is what we did learn: making butter is fun and easy if you have the time and desire. Also, this is an ideal way to control the flavor! Next time we will try to add salt to one portion, chives and garlic to another, cinnamon to another -- the choices are endless! Then we will become the coolest dinner hosts in all the land, and maybe make someone smile.
Not convinced?
As Mike just pronounced, "I think making butter has got to be the single most easy thing to do."
Additionally, "You know what's awesome about butter when you scoop it with an ice cream scoop? It looks just like ice cream!"
Still not convinced?
Try it for your next date night.
Photo: Sweet Potato-Beet Hash Recipe
