In celebration of Saint Brigid and the warmth she symbolizes, we’re sharing a delightful, hands-on recipe that comes straight from our Winter Wonder Weekends FREE 152-page guide. This guide is packed with 12 weeks of winter activities, crafts, recipes, and printables, designed to bring your family together and create meaningful, screen-free memories.
This week’s activity is making homemade butter—a simple, interactive project that’s as fun as it is delicious. Making butter at home connects us to traditional practices, reminding us of the resourcefulness and creativity of those who lived closer to the land. It’s also a wonderful way to slow down, gather together, and appreciate the joy of making something with your own hands.
Homemade Butter Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream (makes about 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of buttermilk)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Pour the Cream: Begin by pouring heavy cream into a large, clean jar with a secure lid.
- Shake: Shake the jar vigorously for 8–12 minutes. Pass it around to family members so everyone can join in. You’ll first see whipped cream form, and soon it will separate into butter and buttermilk.
- Strain the Buttermilk: Once the butter forms, strain the buttermilk from the jar. (Pro tip: Save the buttermilk for baking or cooking—it’s great for pancakes or biscuits!)
- Rinse the Butter: Rinse the butter under cold water, kneading gently to remove any remaining buttermilk. This step helps the butter last longer. This activity can more easily be done in using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, but part of the fun of the activity is everyone contributing to the production.
- Add Salt (Optional): Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the butter for added flavor.
- Add Flavorings (Optional): Elevate your homemade butter with sweet or savory add-ins (see ideas below).
Delicious Add-In Ideas
Sweet Options:
- Cinnamon & Maple Syrup: 1/4 tsp cinnamon + 1 tsp maple syrup
- Honey & Sea Salt: 1 tsp honey + pinch of sea salt
- Lemon Zest & Honey: Zest of 1/4 lemon + 1 tsp honey
Savory Options:
- Chives & Garlic: 1 tsp finely chopped chives + 1/8 tsp minced garlic
- Herb Blend: 1/4 tsp each of rosemary, thyme, and parsley (chopped)
- Sundried Tomatoes & Basil: 1 tsp finely chopped sundried tomatoes + 1/4 tsp chopped fresh basil
Seasonal/Unique Options:
- Pumpkin Spice: 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice mix
- Cranberry & Orange Zest: 1 tsp dried cranberries (chopped) + zest of 1/4 orange
How to Enjoy Your Homemade Butter
Spread your freshly made butter on warm bread, muffins, or even as a topping for cooked vegetables. Better yet, pair it with another recipe from our Winter Wonder Weekends guide, like Saffron Buns, for a truly memorable treat.
More Activities Like This in Our Free Guide
This butter-making activity is just one of many included in our Winter Wonder Weekends guide. With 152 pages of engaging crafts, recipes, and printables, it’s designed to help your family create meaningful connections and enjoy the magic of winter weekends.
Each week features "Quick Wins" and "Deep Dives," so you can choose activities based on the time you have.
To receive your free copy, simply add the guide to your cart, check out, and it will be emailed to you instantly.
Celebrate winter, celebrate family, and celebrate St. Brigid with love and butter!