Autumn Butter

Vegan Autumn Butter Recipe with Brown Sugar and Pumpkin Pie Spice

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 12 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Autumn Butter is a delightful and versatile spread that brings the essence of fall into your kitchen. This recipe combines the rich, comforting flavors of brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice with the creamy texture of whipped cream and butter, creating a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Whether spread on warm muffins, drizzled over pancakes, or used to enhance the flavor of quick bread, Autumn Butter is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

History

The concept of flavored butter has been around for centuries, with various cultures incorporating local ingredients to enhance the taste. The specific combination of ingredients in Autumn Butter, however, is a relatively modern invention, inspired by the popular flavors associated with the fall season in many Western countries. The use of pumpkin pie spice, in particular, ties this recipe to the culinary traditions of North America, where pumpkin and similar spices are staples of autumn cooking.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of firmly packed brown sugar
1 tsp of pumpkin pie spice
0.25 cup of whipping cream
1 cup of softened butter

How to prepare

Mix all the ingredients together until they are well blended.
Spread the mixture onto your preferred muffins, quick bread, or sweet crackers. Alternatively, you can drop a dollop of the mixture onto your morning pancakes. Store the remaining butter in the refrigerator.

Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the butter and whipping cream with plant-based alternatives. You can also experiment with different spices, such as adding a pinch of nutmeg or clove for a deeper flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, ensure that the butter is at room temperature before mixing, as this will make it easier to blend with the other ingredients. If you find the mixture too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more whipping cream. For a more intense flavor, consider toasting the spices before adding them to the mix.

Serving Suggestions

Autumn Butter is incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous ways. Try it spread on warm toast, bagels, or English muffins for a comforting breakfast. It also pairs wonderfully with baked goods like scones, biscuits, and banana bread. For a savory twist, use it to top steamed vegetables or sweet potatoes.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making Autumn Butter is thoroughly mixing the ingredients to ensure a smooth, even consistency. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer can make this process easier and more efficient.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, you can make your own by combining cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. Maple syrup can be used in place of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Autumn Butter can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Autumn Butter in a small bowl with a spreader for easy use. Garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Autumn Butter pairs beautifully with fall-inspired beverages such as hot apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, or chai tea. It also complements the flavors of autumn fruits like apples and pears.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Autumn Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use. It does not require reheating, but if desired, it can be gently warmed to soften.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Autumn Butter contains approximately 100 calories, making it a relatively high-calorie addition to meals, primarily due to its fat content.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Autumn Butter contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the brown sugar. This makes it a relatively low-carb option for adding flavor to your dishes.

Fats

As a butter-based spread, Autumn Butter is high in fats, with a serving containing about 11 grams of fat. The majority of this is saturated fat from the butter and whipping cream, making it a rich source of energy.

Proteins

Autumn Butter contains minimal protein, with less than 1 gram per serving. It is not a significant source of protein in the diet.

Vitamins and minerals

While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, Autumn Butter does contain small amounts of Vitamin A and calcium, contributed by the butter and whipping cream.

Alergens

The primary allergens in Autumn Butter are dairy products, including butter and whipping cream. Individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance should avoid this recipe.

Summary

Autumn Butter is a high-fat, low-carb spread that adds a rich, flavorful touch to various dishes. While it provides some Vitamin A and calcium, it is also high in calories and contains allergens from dairy products.

Summary

Autumn Butter is a flavorful, versatile spread that captures the essence of the fall season. With its rich blend of spices and creamy texture, it adds a special touch to a wide range of dishes. Whether you're enjoying a cozy breakfast or enhancing the flavor of your favorite baked goods, Autumn Butter is sure to delight your taste buds.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Autumn Butter tucked away in a dusty old cookbook at a yard sale. The vibrant orange color of the butter and the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg intrigued me, and I knew I had to give it a try.

As I read through the recipe, I noticed that it called for simple, yet wholesome ingredients that I already had in my kitchen. Butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla extract. It seemed like the perfect recipe to bring the flavors of fall into my home.

I decided to make the Autumn Butter that very afternoon. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my cozy kitchen. As the butter melted in the saucepan, the warm, comforting scents of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air. It reminded me of crisp autumn days and cozy evenings by the fire.

After the butter had melted and the spices had infused their flavors, I poured the mixture into a small jar and let it cool. The rich, golden color of the butter was so inviting, and I couldn't wait to spread it on a warm slice of bread.

I took a bite of the bread slathered with Autumn Butter and was instantly transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg danced on my tongue, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Autumn Butter countless times, each time bringing a little bit of fall magic into my home. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a beloved tradition during the autumn months.

I often think about the origins of this recipe and how it found its way into my hands. Perhaps it was passed down through generations, or maybe it was created by a chef with a love for all things autumn. Whatever the case may be, I am grateful for this recipe and the joy it brings to my kitchen.

As I sit here now, stirring a fresh batch of Autumn Butter on the stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life. The warmth of the spices, the comfort of a homemade treat, and the memories that come flooding back with each bite.

I may never know the true origins of this recipe, but I am thankful for the journey it has taken me on. From that dusty old cookbook to my kitchen, where it now holds a special place among my collection of cherished recipes.

And so, as the leaves begin to change and the air grows cooler, I know that I will always have a jar of Autumn Butter waiting to bring a little taste of fall into my home. And for that, I am truly grateful.