Ingredients

2 sticks (1 cup / 226g) unsalted butter, softened

2 teaspoons flakey sea salt (like Maldon)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons dried edible flowers

1 tablespoon honey

¼ cup fresh mint (½ chiffonade, ½ leaves)

1 teaspoon ground coriander

⅛ teaspoon ground cardamom

1 sprig fresh basil, scattered

¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

⅛ small red onion, sliced thin

2 tablespoons chili d’arbol oil

½ cup roasted garlic cloves

3 sprigs rosemary, toasted

Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

5 large figs, chopped

1 tablespoon honey or agave

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ cup fresh mint leaves (½ chiffonade, ½ whole)

Instructions

Step 1: Let the butter sit at room temperature for 30–40 minutes until softened. Place it in a bowl and whip lightly with a spoon or spatula until smooth and spreadable.

Step 2: Using the back of a spoon or a small offset spatula, spread the butter across a wooden board or serving platter in decorative swirls, leaving texture on the surface for a rustic look.

Step 3: Sprinkle the flakey sea salt and lemon zest evenly over the butter to create a flavorful base layer.

Step 4: Choose one or a mix of the toppings: dried edible flowers, fresh mint, ground coriander, cardamom, fresh basil, cilantro, parsley, thinly sliced red onion, chili d’arbol oil, roasted garlic cloves, toasted rosemary, cracked black pepper, chopped figs, honey or agave, cinnamon, and fresh mint leaves. Scatter these evenly over the butter for a visually appealing spread.

Step 5: Serve the butter board immediately with warm crusty sourdough, crackers, or fresh veggies. Provide mini spreaders or cheese knives for easy scooping.

Tips & Variations

For a sweeter touch, drizzle additional honey over the figs before adding them to the board.

Use goat cheese or cream cheese mixed with butter for extra tang and creaminess.

Try different herbs like thyme or tarragon to vary the flavor profile.

Toast nuts such as almonds or walnuts for added crunch and richness.

Storage

Store any leftover butter board components separately. The whipped butter can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Fresh herbs and delicate toppings are best added fresh just before serving. When reheating bread or crackers, do so just before serving to maintain their crispness.

FAQs

Can I prepare the butter board ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the whipped butter in advance but add fresh herbs, fruit, and delicate toppings just before serving to preserve their texture and flavor.

What can I serve with a butter board?

A butter board pairs wonderfully with crusty breads like sourdough, assorted crackers, fresh vegetables such as cucumber or carrots, and even charcuterie for an impressive appetizer spread.