Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (about 20-22°C / 68-72°F)
  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) packed light brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (3 g) ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon (4-5 ml) pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) fine sea salt (omit if using salted butter; adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure maple syrup or honey (optional — adds depth and soft sweetness)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon (8-10 g) finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
  • Optional: Zest of 1/2 orange or lemon (adds bright citrus lift)
  • Optional: Pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg (for extra warmth)

Instructions:

  1. Soften butter: Leave unsalted butter at room temperature until soft but still holding shape (about 20-30 minutes). It should dent easily with a finger.
  2. Combine aromatics and sweetener: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt so there are no clumps.
  3. Whip the butter: Place softened butter in the mixer bowl. Beat on medium-high for 1-2 minutes until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides with a spatula. Visual cue: butter should look lighter in color and have an airy texture.
  4. Add sugar and flavorings: Add the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture, vanilla, and maple or honey (if using). Beat on medium until fully incorporated and smooth, about 30-60 seconds. Taste and adjust cinnamon or salt. Visual cue: mixture should be smooth and homogeneous.
  5. Fold in optional mix-ins (if using): Fold in toasted nuts, citrus zest, or a pinch of cardamom/nutmeg with a spatula.
  6. Chill or serve: For spreadable soft butter serve immediately. For firmer logs transfer to plastic wrap or parchment, shape into a log, and chill 1-2 hours until firm. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 weeks or freeze up to 3 months. Do not leave butter at room temperature longer than a few hours for food safety.