Traditional Homemade Butter: How to Make Butter in a Butter Churn

Marie Overton
3 days ago
3 min read

Have you ever wondered if you can make your own butter at home? One of the ways to make butter is the same way that your Grandmother would have made it. In a butter churn. The basics of making homemade butter are very simple. If you don't have a churn you can also use a KitchenAid or even a food processor.

What is Butter Anyway?

Butter is a creamy and delicious ingredient made from milk or cream. It is primarily composed of fat, with some water and milk solids.

Traditionally, butter is made by churning cream until the fat separates from the liquid, resulting in a smooth, spreadable texture.

Why Use a butter churn?

A churn brings several benefits to the butter-making process:

Consistency: A churn ensures that the cream is blended evenly, yielding smoother butter.
Convenience: No power is needed. Plus it provides a mini workout.
Cleanliness: a churn keeps all the mess contained on the inside.
Quantity: You can churn 1/2 a gallon of cream as opposed to mere pints with the other methods.

Whether you want to spread it on bread or use it in recipes, a butter churn can be a game-changer for making butter.

The Ingredients You'll Need

You only need two main ingredients to create your butter:

Heavy Cream: 1/2 gallon This is essential for the best results. Aim for cream with at least 36% fat content, as this will result in richer butter. For example, a cup of heavy cream will yield roughly half a cup of butter. (If using raw cream, use the top half as the heavy cream floats.)
The cream should be between 60-65 degrees. If it isn't you can place it in a bowl of hot water to warm up.
Salt (optional): 1/2 teaspoon If you enjoy salted butter, this is a great option. Unsalted butter is great for baking or for those who want to manage their salt consumption.

The Butter-Making Process

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Make sure you have:

Butter Churn Clean and ready to use.
Spatula: For scraping the sides of the bowl.
Container: To store your fresh butter.

Step 2: Pour in the Cream

Person in a kitchen pouring milk from a large glass jar into a container on a granite countertop, wearing a patterned shirt and apron.

Pour 1/2 gallon of heavy cream into the churn.

Step 3: Process the Cream

Person in a floral shirt and apron labeled Maria churns butter in a jar on a kitchen counter. Background includes a sink and tile wall.

Secure the lid of your churn and switch begin mixing. This should take anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes. Initially, the cream will turn into whipped cream. Soon after, you will see the butter begin to form. This is indicated by clumps separating and the emergence of sloshing sounds, a sign that buttermilk is releasing from the solids.

Step 4: drain the Buttermilk

Person in apron pours liquid from butter churn through strainer into jar. Kitchen setting, focus on creamy texture and rustic equipment.

Once the butter forms clumps and separates from the sides, it’s time to drain out the buttermilk. This liquid can be used in various recipes, like pancakes, muffins, or even dressings. Did you know that buttermilk is rich in nutrients and can add a tangy flavor?

Step 5: Rinse the Butter

Person in floral shirt and apron pours liquid from a jar into a container of butter in a kitchen. Apron reads "Mari," setting is informal.

Rinsing your butter with cold water will prolong its shelf life. Place the butter in a bowl, pour cold water over it, and knead it gently.

A person pours thick liquid from a jar into a red bowl in a kitchen. They wear a beige apron. A jar of water is on the countertop.

This removes leftover buttermilk, which can lead to spoilage.

Hands pouring mixture from a jar into a red-rimmed bowl in a kitchen. Person wears an apron with a microphone attached.

Continue rinsing until the liquid stays clear.

Step 6: Add Salt (Optional)

Person in a "Maria" apron holds butter and a spoon, wearing a paisley shirt. A clear jar on the countertop in a kitchen setting.

If you prefer salted butter, now is the time to add 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix it thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly.

Step 7: Store Your Butter

Person in a floral shirt and apron labeled "Marie" shapes butter with hands in a kitchen. A glass jar and cloth are nearby.

Transfer your freshly made butter into a container or wrap it in parchment paper. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Homemade butter can last for a month in the freezer, providing you with a delicious addition to your meals.

Tips for Perfect Butter

Use Warm Cream: Starting with 60-65 degree cream can yield better results, as it helps the butter form more quickly.
Experiment with Flavors: Get creative by adding herbs, garlic, or even honey to customize your butter. For instance, mixing in fresh rosemary can elevate your butter for a unique flavor experience.
Be Patient: Different food processors may require more or less time. If it takes longer than expected, don’t worry—just keep an eye on the process.

The Taste Test: Why Homemade Butter Wins

Antique butter churn with wooden paddle and glass bowl of butter on a burlap cloth. Rustic kitchen setting.

Once your homemade butter is ready, spread it on warm toast, muffins, or pancakes. The taste is far superior to most store-bought butters. Many people report that fresh butter has a creaminess and flavor that you simply can’t find in processed versions.

Additionally, making your butter means you control the ingredients and can customize flavors to suit your preference, making it a fulfilling kitchen project.

Your Homemade Butter

Making butter with a food processor is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. With just a few easy steps and minimal ingredients, you can create a delicious product that enhances your meals.