Homemade Butter Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream (preferably organic and not ultra-pasteurized)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, for salted butter)
• Ice water (for rinsing)

Instructions:

1. Chill the Equipment:
   
   • Before you begin, make sure your mixing bowl, stand mixer (or hand mixer), and beaters are chilled. This helps speed up the process and prevents the butter from getting too soft.
3. Whip the Cream:
   
   • Pour the heavy cream into the chilled mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, begin beating the cream at a medium speed. As you beat, it will first turn into whipped cream, and then eventually the butter will begin to form. This takes about 8-10 minutes, so be patient!
5. Separate the Buttermilk:
   
   • Once the butter has formed, you’ll notice that the liquid part (buttermilk) will start to separate from the solids (butter). Turn off the mixer and carefully pour off the buttermilk. You can save it for baking or use it in other recipes.
7. Rinse the Butter:
   
   • Place the butter into a bowl and cover it with ice water. Use your hands or a spatula to knead the butter in the water to remove any remaining buttermilk. This helps the butter last longer.
9. Add Salt (Optional):
   
   • If you prefer salted butter, now is the time to add salt. Mix it into the butter until well combined.
11. Shape and Store:
    
    • Once the butter is fully rinsed and the salt (if using) is mixed in, shape it into a block or roll. Wrap it in parchment paper or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 1-2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Enjoy:

• Homemade butter is perfect for spreading on bread, using in baking, or as a topping for vegetables and meats!