Butter & Spreads

Honey Butter

A sweet compound butter of butter whipped with honey and a pinch of salt. It is soft, spreadable, and made for warm breads.

CategoryButter & Spreads
Maker / OriginUnited States
StorageKeep in a sealed tub in the fridge; it firms up when cold.
Shelf lifeAbout 2 weeks in the fridge; the honey itself is a mild preservative.
Best usesCornbread, biscuits, rolls, pancakes, waffles, and roasted sweet potatoes.
SubstitutesPlain butter with a drizzle of honey, or maple butter.
PairingsCornbread, biscuits, dinner rolls, and fried chicken.
Last checkedOctober 18, 2026

About it

Honey butter is a staple of American biscuit and cornbread service, especially in the South. The ratio is flexible, from a whisper of honey to equal parts, and a pinch of salt keeps it from tasting flat.

Storing it

Let it stand at room temperature about 20 minutes before serving so it spreads. It freezes well for up to 3 months.

Using it

Whip softened butter with honey until pale and fluffy. Serve at room temperature with warm cornbread, biscuits, or rolls.

Swaps & pairings

Butter and honey side by side on the bread is the same flavor unmixed. Maple butter gives a deeper, darker sweetness.

More from this maker: United States

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