Corn butter is a creamy, dairy-free spread made entirely from fresh corn. Unlike traditional butter, this recipe requires only one ingredient that transforms into a smooth, golden spread with a consistency similar to pumpkin butter or apple butter. Corn butter is perfect on toast, holiday rolls, or served on vegetables. What's more is that this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free!
Corn Butter - What to Expect
There's a saying that goes, "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." That could not be truer than here. Sometimes, the dishes or recipes that stand out the most are the ones that take the least amount of effort and are accessible for even the most inexperienced cook.
Over the years, I have found myself at times conflicted on what recipes to share, feeling that they are not 'gourmet' enough. I've learned that gourmet is a lifestyle, not just a pricetag.
Attainable foods and approachable recipes can very easily be deemed gourmet. As I quoted, there is sophistication in simplicity.
Taste and Texture
Corn butter is creamy but not as thick as traditional butter. If chilled, it congeals but overall retains its smooth texture. Think, softened butter. It's perfectly spreadable for toast or dinner rolls. The taste is sweet and savory, though the sweetness is very subtle. With a sprinkle of salt, this is the perfect replacement for butter.
Difficulty Level
While not all low-ingredient recipes equal ease (here's looking to you, laminated dough), today's recipe is still beginner-friendly. However, it does require a few steps and some time to make.
Pairings
As stated, corn butter is a lovely substitute for dairy butter. So if you're looking ideas on what to pair it with, here are a few of our favorite suggestions:
- Milk and Honey Biscuits
- Naan Bread
- Keto Bread
- Aristan Bread
- Feta and Jalapeno Corn Muffins
- Creamy Ricotta Mashed Potatoes
- Warm Green Bean Salad
Ingredient Notes
What makes today's recipe so special is that you only need one ingredient- fresh corn and a pinch of salt.
Aside from that, you'll need a sharp knife (preferably a chef's knife), a food processor, a strainer, and a sauce pot.
The process is simple and to the point- you need the corn juice to cook down and thicken into a 'butter'. So, we begin by separating the kernels from the cob. From there, we blend that into as fine a consistency as attainable with a food processor. Strain the pulsed corn and squeeze out as much of the juice as possible. Cook the juice in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring consistently until it begins to thicken into a smooth puree. Remove the corn mixture from the heat and transfer to a glass jar or heat-proof container (I also recommend using glass storage containers when it comes to handling hot food). Sprinkle with salt, and let the mixture cool slightly before transferring to the refrigerator, where you want to chill it so it sets a little more.
Corn Butter FAQs
If we're talking about butter for spreads, pumpkin butter is a seasonal favorite as well as apple butter. They are also delicious on various breads and baked goods. If we are talking about dairy substitutes for cooking or baking, I highly recommend using a plant-based oil alternative.
You can always use a blender if you do not have a food processor. While you can technically use a box grater, it will be more time-consuming and, needless to say, messier.
Yes! Corn is naturally a gluten-free ingredient. This recipe is easy on the gut and safe for gluten allergies.
Like anything else, an air-tight container is best. When storing hot foods, I like using glass storage containers or canning jars. Keep refrigerated when not using.
Anywhere from 2-4 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Corn Butter
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 ounces 1x
Description
Creamy corn butter made with just one ingredient! This easy vegan, dairy-free spread is naturally sweet, smooth, and perfect for toast or veggies.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn
- Flakey sea salt
Instructions
- Using a sharp knife, separate the kernels from the cob.
- Blend the kernels in a food processor, then strain the corn mixture through a fine-mesh strainer. Discard the pulp.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, cook down the juice from the strained corn, stirring consistently until it starts to thicken, about 8-10 minutes depending on the range of your stovetop.
- Transfer to a glass container and sprinkle with salt.
- Let cool to room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
And that's our Easy 1-Ingredient Corn Butter Recipe. If you enjoyed this recipe, or have any questions or suggestions, be sure to let us know in the comments below.
Happy Cooking!
Claudia Lamascolo says
this sounds delicious! A must try!!