Strawberry butter is a smooth, deeply flavored fruit spread made by slowly cooking fresh strawberries until rich and thick. It has a silky texture and concentrated strawberry taste that makes simple breakfasts feel special. This recipe is easy, mostly hands-off, and perfect for preserving fresh strawberries.

Why You’ll Love It

This strawberry butter is sweet, vibrant, and incredibly versatile. Slow cooking brings out natural strawberry flavor while creating a soft, spreadable texture. It’s simple to make and stores well, making it great for meal prep and gifting.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

Fresh strawberries – the base flavor of the spread
Granulated sugar – sweetens and helps thicken
Honey – adds depth and natural sweetness
Lemon juice – balances sweetness and brightens flavor
Salt – enhances overall taste
Vanilla extract – adds warmth and aroma

Tools for This Recipe

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
Slow cooker
Knife
Cutting board

How to Make It (Step-by-Step)

Step Block 1 — Prep & Batter

Wash, hull, and halve the strawberries. Add them to a slow cooker along with sugar, honey, lemon juice, and a small pinch of salt. Stir gently so everything is evenly combined.

Step Block 2 — Bake & Cool

Cover and cook on low heat until the strawberries are completely broken down and the mixture thickens. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender. Continue cooking uncovered until the butter becomes thick and spreadable. Stir in vanilla extract, then allow it to cool before transferring to containers.

Helpful Tips

Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking around the edges.
Use ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor.
The butter thickens more as it cools, so avoid overcooking.

Substitutions & Variations

Replace honey with maple syrup if preferred.
Add orange zest for a citrus note.
Blend only part of the mixture for a slightly chunky texture.

What to Serve With It

Toast or English muffins
Biscuits and scones
Pancakes or waffles
Yogurt or oatmeal
Sweet rolls

Leftovers & Storage

Room temperature: Allow to cool before storing.
Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator.

FAQs

Is strawberry butter the same as jam?
No, strawberry butter is cooked longer and blended smooth for a silky texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw them first and drain excess liquid.

Can this be made on the stovetop?
Yes, cook gently in a heavy pot and stir often until thick.

How do I know it’s ready?
It should be thick enough to spread without dripping.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but the flavor and texture may be slightly less rich.

Conclusion

Strawberry butter is a simple way to transform fresh strawberries into a rich, spreadable treat. With minimal effort and big flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Full Recipe