Pecan Butter Board

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Pecan Butter Board is a decadent yet simple appetizer that brings together the best flavors of butter, honey, and pecans. The spiced butter is smooth and creamy, with the warm hints of cinnamon and allspice adding a cozy touch. The glazed pecans give the board a delightful crunch, and the honey adds a rich sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty butter. It’s perfect for serving with a variety of dippables like bread, crackers, or chips, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup salted butter (at room temperature, use good quality butter)
• 2/3 cup glazed pecans or pralines, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 cup honey
• Flake salt (for garnish)

To Serve:

• Bread (baguette, sliced)
• Vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, etc.)
• Chips
• Crackers

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Butter: In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or spoon to whip the salted butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Spices: Stir in the ground cinnamon and allspice, mixing until fully incorporated. The spices will give the butter a warm, aromatic flavor.
3. Prepare the Pecans: If you’re using glazed pecans or pralines, chop them into small pieces. Add them to the whipped butter, stirring to combine.
4. Drizzle with Honey: Add the honey to the butter mixture and stir gently. The honey will make the butter sweet and spreadable while adding a touch of richness.
5. Assemble the Board: Spread the spiced pecan butter on a large board or plate. Use a spoon or knife to create a swirl or pattern with the butter, making it visually appealing.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of flake salt over the butter board for a touch of contrast and to enhance the flavors.
7. Serve: Arrange slices of bread, vegetable sticks, chips, and crackers around the butter board for dipping and spreading. Serve immediately, or refrigerate the butter until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Nut Substitutes: You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking—add a bit of nutmeg or ginger for an extra twist.
• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free or vegan version of this butter board.
• Fruit Additions: Add sliced apples, pears, or figs around the butter board for a fresh contrast to the richness of the butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: The pecan butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: If you’d like to warm the butter, place it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or soften it with a spoon.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but you may need to add a pinch of salt to taste to balance the flavors.

Can I make the pecan butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pecan butter a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften.

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with any nuts you prefer, such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts.

How long will the pecan butter keep in the refrigerator?

The pecan butter will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, as long as it is stored in an airtight container.

Can I add more honey to the butter?

Yes, if you prefer a sweeter butter, you can add more honey to taste.

Can I use honey substitutes, like maple syrup or agave?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave, or even date syrup for a different flavor profile.

How do I serve this butter board at a party?

Serve the butter board with a variety of dippables like baguette slices, crackers, vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, etc.), or even chips for a fun and interactive appetizer.

Can I use a food processor to make this butter?

Yes, you can use a food processor to blend the butter and spices, but be sure not to overmix.

What’s the best way to spread the butter?

The butter should be soft enough to spread easily. If it’s too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before spreading.

Can I serve this as a dessert?

Yes, this Pecan Butter Board works wonderfully as a sweet treat. Serve it with fruit, such as apple or pear slices, or even on sweet crackers for a delicious dessert option.

Conclusion

The Pecan Butter Board is a simple yet elegant appetizer that combines creamy butter, crunchy pecans, and a touch of spice to create a crowd-pleasing treat. Whether served at a holiday gathering, a casual brunch, or a cozy snack night, this butter board will impress your guests with its delicious flavors and beautiful presentation. It’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of dippables, and with its creamy sweetness and crunchy pecans, it’s sure to be a favorite!

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