Goats Cheese and Chive Butter
There’s something utterly delightful about the combination of creamy goat cheese and fresh chives, especially when they’re whipped together into a luscious butter. This Goats Cheese and Chive Butter is a versatile spread that elevates everything from crusty bread to grilled vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet breakfast, this compound butter is a game changer. It’s quick to make, and the flavor is simply out of this world. Let’s dive into why I love this recipe and how you can whip it up in no time.
Why I Love This Recipe
What I adore about this Goats Cheese and Chive Butter is its simplicity and versatility. It brings a touch of elegance to any dish, yet it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The creamy texture of the goat cheese combined with the vibrant flavor of chives creates a spread that’s perfect for all occasions. It’s delightful on a warm baguette, complements grilled meats beautifully, and can even add a gourmet touch to your favorite pasta dishes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use fresh chives from your garden or local farmer’s market, making it a seasonal favorite.
Ingredient List
- 1 cup salted butter, at room temperature
- 3.5 oz fresh soft goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final flavor profile of the Goats Cheese and Chive Butter. The salted butter provides a creamy base, while the goat cheese adds tanginess and richness. The chives lend a fresh, oniony note that ties everything together beautifully.
What’s in the Gear List
- Mixer or Whisk: To combine the ingredients smoothly.
- Bowl: A medium-sized bowl for mixing.
- Spatula: For scraping down the sides and serving.
- Plastic Wrap or Parchment Paper: For shaping and storing the butter.
Having the right equipment makes the process much easier. A mixer is highly recommended for achieving the perfect creamy consistency, but a good old-fashioned whisk will do if you’re feeling a little more hands-on.
Goats Cheese and Chive Butter: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by measuring out all your ingredients. Make sure your butter is at room temperature—it should be soft enough to easily mix but not melted.
Step 2: Combine the Butter and Goat Cheese
In a medium bowl, add the room temperature butter and the fresh goat cheese. Using a mixer or a whisk, blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Chives
Once the butter and cheese are well combined, add the chopped chives to the mixture. Stir gently with a spatula until the chives are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
This is the fun part! Taste your Goats Cheese and Chive Butter and see if it needs a little more salt or perhaps a touch more chive. Customize it to your liking!
Step 5: Shape and Store
Transfer the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Roll it into a log shape, twisting the ends to seal it. You can also scoop it into a decorative dish if you prefer.
Step 6: Chill
Place the wrapped butter log in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour. This will help it firm up and make it easier to slice when you’re ready to use it.
Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas
- Spread on fresh baguette slices topped with tomatoes and basil in the summer.
- Use as a finishing touch on grilled steaks or chicken during barbecue season.
- Mix into warm pasta dishes in the fall for a creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Top roasted vegetables with a dollop of this butter in the winter for added richness.
No matter the season, the Goats Cheese and Chive Butter fits perfectly. It’s adaptable to various dishes, making it a year-round favorite.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
- Using cold butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Overmixing: Blend just until combined to maintain a nice texture.
- Not tasting: Always taste your butter before chilling to make sure the flavors are to your liking.
- Skipping the chill: Chilling is essential for the butter to hold its shape.
Avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure that your Goats Cheese and Chive Butter turns out perfectly every time.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Store your Goats Cheese and Chive Butter in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. There’s no need to reheat; it’s perfect straight from the fridge!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, you can definitely use unsalted butter. Just feel free to add a pinch of salt to the mixture to enhance the flavors.
What can I use this butter on?
This Goats Cheese and Chive Butter is fabulous on bread, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even stirred into hot pasta for a creamy sauce.
Can I substitute the goat cheese with another cheese?
While goat cheese is key for its tangy flavor, you could use cream cheese or a soft feta for a different but still delicious result.
How do I know when the butter is mixed enough?
The mixture should be smooth and creamy, with no lumps of goat cheese remaining. It should have a consistent texture throughout.
See You at the Table
As we wrap up this delightful culinary journey, I hope you feel inspired to give this Goats Cheese and Chive Butter a try. It’s a simple yet impressive addition to any meal, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making it at home. Whether you spread it on your morning toast or use it to elevate a dinner party dish, this butter is sure to impress.
The beauty of cooking lies in sharing your creations, so gather your friends and family around the table and enjoy the deliciousness together. Happy cooking!
Goats Cheese and Chive Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather your ingredients. Ensure your butter is at room temperature.
- In a medium bowl, combine the room temperature butter and fresh goat cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add the chopped chives to the mixture and stir gently until evenly distributed.
- Taste the butter and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer the mixture onto plastic wrap or parchment paper, shape it into a log, and seal the ends.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Freeze for up to three months, wrapped tightly.
- Use unsalted butter if preferred, adding salt to taste.
