While most people grab store-bought butter, there’s something truly special about making your own homemade butter the old-fashioned way. 
Not only is it rich, creamy, and fresh, but it also allows you to control the ingredients—no additives, just pure, delicious butter.
Some people believe homemade butter tastes better than anything you can buy, while others love the satisfaction of making things from scratch. Whatever your reason, this guide will show you how to make your own butter using simple kitchen tools—no butter churn required!
Let’s dive into the simplest, most rewarding way to make homemade butter! 
Ingredients
- 1-pint heavy whipping cream
- A large bowl of ice water
- Salt to taste (optional)
- Stand mixer, hand mixer or blender, or a jar with a tight-fitting lid
Instructions:
1 ) Pour a pint of heavy cream or whipping cream into your device or into a jar with a tight-fitting lid. If using a machine, turn on low speed, then raise to medium speed. If you’re using a jar, start shaking (you’ll need some serious elbow grease if doing it by hand). First, the cream will turn into whipped cream with soft, then stiff peaks.
Keep going until the cream breaks. If you’re shaking the cream by hand, you’ll hear a sloshing, then you’ll begin to feel something more solid hit the sides of the jar. If you’re using a stand mixer, you’ll see the butter clinging to the beater. This usually takes anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes — by hand may take longer. In this process, you are separating the butterfat from the liquid.
2 ) Once the butter has solidified, pour off the buttermilk and save it for baking (or drink it!). Scoop the butter into a bowl. Rinse the butter by pouring ice water over it and pressing the remaining buttermilk out with a small spatula or a spoon. Pour off the water and repeat the process. Keep rinsing and squishing the butter with the ice water until the water runs clear. Then add some salt if you like and work that through the butter.
3 ) There you have it. old-fashioned butter, no-churn required! Spread on toast, corn on the cob, a baked potato, or whatever you like and enjoy!
- Some Recommended Products:
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Butter
- Use High-Quality Cream – The better the cream, the better the butter! Use organic or grass-fed cream for the richest flavor.
- Let the Cream Warm Slightly – Take the cream out of the fridge for 15-20 minutes before whipping—it makes the process smoother.
- Use a Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer – A food processor or mason jar works too, but an electric mixer makes it quicker and easier.
- Save the Buttermilk! – After straining, don’t throw away the liquid—it’s homemade buttermilk, perfect for pancakes or biscuits.
- Rinse the Butter Well – Washing away the buttermilk helps prevent spoilage and keeps the butter fresh longer.
- Add Flavor Variations – Try mixing in sea salt, garlic, herbs, or honey for a flavored butter twist!
(FAQ) About Homemade Butter
1. How long does homemade butter last?
- Homemade butter lasts up to 2 weeks in the fridge when properly stored in an airtight container.
2. Can I freeze homemade butter?
- Yes! Wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
3. What’s the best type of cream to use?
- Use heavy whipping cream with at least 35-40% fat for the best results.
4. Do I need to add salt?
- No, but adding a pinch of sea salt enhances the flavor. You can also make it unsalted for baking.
5. How long does it take to make butter?
- With a stand mixer, it takes about 10 minutes. Shaking it in a jar can take 15-20 minutes.
6. Why do I need to rinse the butter?
- Rinsing removes leftover buttermilk, which helps prevent spoilage and extends freshness.
7. Can I make butter with raw cream?
- Yes! Raw cream makes delicious homemade butter—just ensure it’s high-quality and safe for consumption.
8. What can I do with leftover buttermilk?
- Use it in pancakes, biscuits, cornbread, or marinades for extra flavor.
9. Can I make butter with a hand whisk?
- Yes, but it takes a lot of effort and time. A mixer or jar-shaking method is easier.
10. Can I make flavored butter?
Absolutely! Mix in honey, cinnamon, garlic, herbs, or chili flakes for a unique homemade spread.
