Butter

Derived from mammalian milk, primarily Bos taurus Dairy Fat

Butter Dairy Fat

At a Glance

  • Category Dairy Fat

The Forktionary Angle

"The foundational fat in countless cuisines, transforming dishes with its creamy texture and unparalleled richness, from flaky pastries to savory sauces."

Definition

A dairy product made from churning fresh or fermented cream, valued for its rich flavor and versatility in cooking and baking.

Science Composed of about 80% butterfat, 15% water, and 5% milk solids; its melting point is around 32-35°C (90-95°F).
Storage Can be stored for 1-2 months in the refrigerator or up to 6-9 months frozen.
Usage Essential for achieving flaky pastries, rich sauces, and adding depth to sautéed foods.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Butter are:

Rich creamy slightly sweet sometimes nutty (brown butter) or tangy (cultured butter)

Chef’s Secret

Clarifying butter (removing milk solids and water) creates ghee, which has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking and imparts a richer, nuttier flavor.

Best Substitutes

Margarine

Ratio 1:1

Ghee

for cooking, adjust for baking
Ratio 1:1

Coconut Oil

for baking, less for cooking
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose unsalted butter for baking for better control over salt content; cultured butter offers a tangy, complex flavor.

Recipes Using Butter

60 Minutes Or Less Vegetables 60 Minutes Or Less Oven

Belgian Endive And Ham Casserole

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Belgian Endive and Ham Casserole, a cherished family recipe from the Netherlands, perfect for special occasions! Tender Belgian endives are wrapped in savory ham and bathed in a rich, cheesy sauce. This elegant yet comforting dish is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests. Get ready for a taste of pure deliciousness!

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Dietary Main Ingredient Cobblers And Crisps Low Cholesterol

Apple Mystery

A warm, comforting dessert with a surprising twist! This recipe, originally from a Plains, GA cookbook, features a delicious combination of apples, pineapple, and cake mix, baked to golden perfection. Topped with pecans and a buttery crumble, it's the perfect cozy autumn dessert or unexpected dinner party treat. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable finish.

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Preparation Time To Make Dietary Equipment

Bacon Double Cheeseburger Casserole

This ultimate comfort food recipe, inspired by Betty Crocker, delivers a cheesy, meaty, and satisfying casserole that's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Enjoy layers of creamy macaroni, savory ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese – perfect for family dinners or game night.

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Cuisine Main Ingredient For 1 Or 2 South West Pacific

Bananas With Chocolate Sauce

Indulge in this classic Australian dessert! Easy to make and perfect for parties, this recipe features perfectly ripe bananas drenched in a rich, creamy chocolate sauce. Double or triple the recipe to satisfy a crowd. Get ready for a taste of Aussie delight!

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Simply Potatoes2 Course Vegetables 4 Hours Or Less

2000 Meatloaf

Ready, set, cook! This special edition Mediterranean-inspired meatloaf recipe is a flavor explosion! Juicy meatloaf infused with savory bacon, spinach, red bell pepper, and creamy goat cheese, all nestled on a bed of crispy shredded hash browns. A simple yet elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Time To Make For Large Groups 30 Minutes Or Less Course

New Vanishing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

These irresistible Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, adapted from a classic 2012 Quaker Oats recipe, will disappear faster than you can say 'yum'! This recipe includes options for bar cookies and high-altitude baking, ensuring perfectly chewy cookies every time. We've upgraded the recipe with craisins for a burst of tartness and a hint of nutmeg for extra warmth. Get ready for a cookie experience that's both nostalgic and delightfully new!

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Preparation Quick Breads Bananas Dietary

Banana Cinnamon Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of these Banana Cinnamon Muffins! A delightful twist on a classic recipe, these muffins boast perfectly moist banana bread texture enhanced with warm cinnamon, fragrant vanilla, and a touch of gourmet sea salt for an unparalleled flavor boost. Adapted from a beloved Fanny Farmer recipe, this improved version is easy to follow and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat. Get ready to experience muffin perfection!

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Main Ingredient Dinner Party Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains

Baked Cilantro Lime Rice Low Fat

This incredible, low-fat Cilantro Lime Rice recipe is inspired by a popular Utah Tex-Mex restaurant! Imagine fluffy, flavorful rice bursting with zesty lime and fresh cilantro – a side dish that's as vibrant as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknights or your next fiesta, this easy oven-baked recipe will become a new family favorite. Prepare to be amazed!

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Course Main Ingredient Time To Make Main Dish

Beet Onion Pizza W Goat Cheese

This unbelievably tasty pizza is surprisingly simple to make! Using a Neapolitan-style crust (homemade or store-bought), it's baked to perfection in a pizza oven or on a pizza stone for a crispy crust and bubbly cheese. The sweet earthiness of roasted beets and caramelized onions perfectly complements the tangy goat cheese and rich fontina. A quick and elegant weeknight meal or impressive party appetizer!

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Holiday Event Time To Make Occasion For Large Groups

Baked Brie Wedges

Elevate your holiday appetizers with these irresistible Baked Brie Wedges! Flaky puff pastry cradles creamy brie, baked to golden perfection and served with a tangy cranberry-lemon dipping sauce. This easy, elegant recipe is sure to impress your guests. Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion.

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Fruit Low In Something Low Protein Time To Make

Apple Cherry Crisp

A delightful and healthy Apple Cherry Crisp recipe inspired by Moosewood! This comforting dessert features a sweet and tart fruit filling topped with a buttery, crunchy oat crumble. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and delivers incredible flavor.

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Taste Mood Taste Mood Course Dietary

Bacon And Tomato Cups

These easy-to-make Bacon and Tomato Cups are a kid-friendly favorite, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a quick dinner! Using Pillsbury Grands biscuits, these savory treats are ready in under 30 minutes. Crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese combine for a delicious and satisfying bite. Get the recipe now!

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Main Ingredient Chocolate Dinner Party Eggs Dairy

Barbecued Chocolate Stuffed Bananas

Indulge in the ultimate dessert fusion! This Barbecued Chocolate Stuffed Bananas recipe is a decadent delight, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with a smoky barbecue glaze and rich, melted chocolate. Prepare for an explosion of flavor that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a unique treat or impressive dessert!

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Stocks Time To Make Thanksgiving One Dish Meal

After Thanksgiving Turkey Soup

Transform leftover Thanksgiving turkey into a hearty and comforting soup perfect for chilly Wisconsin winters! This recipe uses the entire turkey carcass to create a rich and flavorful broth, then adds tender vegetables and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. Perfect for using up leftover turkey and ideal for cozy nights in.

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Cuisine Brown Rice Winter One Dish Meal

Apple Rice

This savory Apple Rice Sausage Skillet is a delicious and easy weeknight meal! Inspired by a Costco find (apple sausage!), this recipe uses mild Italian sausage for a fantastic flavor combination. The tender rice, sweet apples, and savory sausage create a perfectly balanced dish. Serve as a satisfying main course with a fresh salad and crusty garlic bread, or as a flavorful side alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Preparation Picnic Infant Baby Friendly Fall

Awesome Blueberry Muffins

Bake up a batch of irresistible, fluffy blueberry muffins! This recipe is easy to double for extra-large muffins, and a hint of cinnamon in the batter adds warmth and spice. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Number Of Servings Breads Coffee Cakes Course

Almond Dream Coffee Cake

Indulge in the heavenly aroma and irresistible taste of our Almond Dream Coffee Cake! This moist and rich sour cream coffee cake is bursting with the delightful flavor of almonds, creating a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. Perfect for brunch, coffee breaks, or any special occasion, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

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Easy Taste Mood Dietary Savory

Beer And Beef Crock Pot

Tender, fall-apart beef simmered in rich beer gravy! This hearty crock pot stew is incredibly easy to make and perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. Enjoy it with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or your favorite vegetables. We've experimented with various beers – light, dark, even sweet – and it always turns out delicious! Plus, it freezes beautifully for future meals.

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