If you’re looking for a bright, sunny twist to elevate your brunch table or breakfast spread, you have to try Citrus Blossom Butter. This dreamy, aromatic butter is flecked with zesty orange and lemon, gently sweetened with honey, and infused with a blush of vanilla and floral orange blossom. Whether it’s slathered over crusty bread or melting on a stack of pancakes, every bite tastes like a gentle burst of sunshine. It’s simple to whip up yet feels incredibly special—sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, too!

Citrus Blossom Butter Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Citrus Blossom Butter comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients that each play a starring role. Don’t let the simplicity fool you—every component brings either fragrance, flavor, or creamy decadence, making the finished spread truly unforgettable.

Unsalted butter, softened: The creamy base—use high-quality butter for extra richness and easy mixing.
Orange zest: Bright and sweet, the zest adds tantalizing aroma and tangy flavor—zest only the colorful outer peel for the best taste.
Lemon zest: This livens up the butter with a touch of tartness, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
Honey: For gentle sweetness with a delicate floral note—adjust to your preferred taste.
Vanilla extract: Adds warm depth and enhances the butter’s luxurious, dessert-like feel.
Orange blossom water (optional): Just a splash infuses a gorgeous floral aroma—totally optional, but highly recommended for a unique twist.
Pinch of salt: Makes all the flavors pop; don’t skip this essential touch.

How to Make Citrus Blossom Butter

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Place the softened butter in a medium mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula, whip the butter until it’s creamy, pillowy, and a shade lighter—about one to two minutes. This step is key for giving your Citrus Blossom Butter its light, fluffy texture and ensuring it blends easily with all the other flavors.

Step 2: Add Zest, Honey, and Extracts

Add in the orange zest, lemon zest, honey, vanilla extract, orange blossom water (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whip everything together until fully combined and the zest is evenly distributed throughout the mix. The kitchen will start filling up with irresistible citrus and floral scents!

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Now’s the time to dip in a spoon and taste. If you’d like your butter a bit sweeter, drizzle in a touch more honey. For extra floral complexity, add another drop of orange blossom water. You’re looking for balance—the citrus should shine, supported by sweetness and a delicate perfume.

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Scrape the whipped mixture into a small jar for easy serving, or, if you want to go the extra mile, dollop it onto a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Wrap it tight and refrigerate for at least one hour—this gives the flavors time to mingle and gives the butter a firm, sliceable texture.

How to Serve Citrus Blossom Butter

Garnishes

A flourish of extra citrus zest or a sprinkle of edible flowers on top of your Citrus Blossom Butter makes a simple, stunning garnish. It’s a lovely detail, especially if you’re serving to guests, and hints at the flavors waiting inside.

Side Dishes

This butter is made for brunch royalty—spread it generously over warm scones, flaky biscuits, golden waffles, pancakes, or a slice of crisp toast. It’s also a revelation melted atop roasted sweet potatoes or corn on the cob for a savory-sweet delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Roll your Citrus Blossom Butter into a log and slice into coins for a striking presentation, or pipe it into rosettes on a platter. Nestle it alongside a basket of breads at brunch, or offer little ramekins for individual portions at a luncheon or afternoon tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Citrus Blossom Butter keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly to keep it fresh and prevent it from picking up any fridge odors.

Freezing

To save some for later, wrap your butter log in plastic wrap and pop it into a freezer-safe bag. It will hold its flavor and texture for up to two months—perfect for making ahead for holidays or brunch parties!

Reheating

If your butter is coming straight from the fridge or freezer, let it soften at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before serving. This returns it to that luscious, spreadable texture without the need for any reheating.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You certainly can! If you choose salted butter, just skip the pinch of salt in the recipe or adjust to taste at the end—a little less is often enough, as you don’t want to overpower the delicate citrus and floral flavors.

Is orange blossom water necessary?

It’s totally optional. Orange blossom water adds a beautiful, subtle floral note that sets Citrus Blossom Butter apart, but the recipe still shines without it. If you love floral flavors, give it a try!

What’s the best way to zest citrus?

A fine microplane or zester works wonders—just grate the colorful outer layer of the fruit, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This will pack in the brightest flavor and color.

Can I make Citrus Blossom Butter dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the unsalted butter for your favorite plant-based or vegan butter. The other ingredients work just as well, keeping things delightfully dairy-free.

How can I use Citrus Blossom Butter beyond breakfast?

Think outside the (bread) box! Try melting a dollop over grilled chicken or fish, swirling it into baked goods, or tossing cooked carrots with a spoonful for a citrusy, glossy finish. The possibilities are endless.

Final Thoughts

Bright, aromatic, and a breeze to whip up, Citrus Blossom Butter is a spirited little luxury you can bring to any table. I can’t wait for you to share this sunshiny treat with your family and friends—once you taste it, you’ll find yourself dreaming up new ways to enjoy it again and again!

Citrus Blossom Butter Recipe

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4.8 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chill time)
Yield: 1 cup 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Indulge in the bright and fragrant flavors of citrus with this delightful Citrus Blossom Butter. This easy-to-make spread is perfect for adding a burst of sunshine to your breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

Additional Ingredients:

1 tablespoon orange zest
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Citrus Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Add the orange zest, lemon zest, honey, vanilla extract, orange blossom water (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully combined and fluffy.
Taste and adjust sweetness or floral notes as desired.
Shape and Chill: Transfer the butter to a small jar or shape into a log using plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve softened over warm biscuits, pancakes, toast, or scones.

Notes

For a smoother texture, strain the zest before mixing.
This butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 2 months.
Orange blossom water adds a lovely floral note but is optional.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Condiment
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American