Unsalted Butter 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Unsalted Butter: A Complete Guide

What is Unsalted Butter

Unsalted butter is just regular butter, but without any added salt. It’s made from churning fresh cream, and that’s it—no extra seasoning. A lot of people use it for baking because it lets them control how much salt goes into their recipe. You know when you’re making cookies or a cake, every little thing counts, right? So, by using unsalted butter, you can decide exactly how much salt to add instead of guessing how much is already in there.

I personally like to keep a stick of unsalted butter in my fridge at all times. It’s great not only for baking but also for when you want the pure, creamy taste of butter to shine through, like spreading it on warm bread. With salted butter, sometimes all you taste is the salt. But with unsalted, you get that smooth, rich flavor that’s just butter being butter.

Other Names of Unsalted Butter

Unsalted butter, oh, it goes by a few names depending on who you’re talking to! In some places, people might call it “sweet butter.” Not because it’s sugary or anything, but simply because it doesn’t have any salt added to it. It’s also sometimes just referred to as “plain butter” since it’s the basic, unflavored kind. You might also hear “natural butter” thrown around, as it’s in its purest form without any extra ingredients.

These names can vary, but at the end of the day, it’s all just butter without salt—perfect for when you want to control the flavors in your cooking or baking!

Nutritional Value of Unsalted Butter

Here’s the nutritional value of unsalted butter per 1 tablespoon (14 grams):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	102 kcal
Total Fat	12 grams
Saturated Fat	7 grams
Polyunsaturated Fat	0.4 grams
Monounsaturated Fat	3 grams
Cholesterol	31 milligrams
Sodium	0 milligrams
Protein	0.1 grams
Carbohydrates	0 grams
Vitamin A	355 IU (7% DV)
Calcium	3 milligrams
Iron	0 milligrams

This can vary a little depending on the brand, but it’s pretty close. Butter gives that rich, creamy flavor, but like anything, best to enjoy in moderation!

Benefits of Unsalted Butter

Unsalted butter might seem simple, but it comes with a lot of perks! Whether you’re a home cook or a baker, using unsalted butter can make a big difference in flavor and health. Here’s a quick look at why many of us love keeping it on hand!

1. Control over salt – When you’re cooking or baking, using unsalted butter gives you total control over how much salt is in your dish. That way, you can adjust it to taste and not worry about over-salting.
2. Fresher taste – Unsalted butter is usually fresher than salted butter. Since it doesn’t have salt as a preservative, it’s often made in smaller batches and stocked more frequently at the store.
3. Better for baking – Recipes for baked goods often call for unsalted butter because it gives a more accurate flavor. You can always add salt if needed, but you can’t take it out if there’s too much.
4. Healthier option – Cutting back on salt is important for your heart. Unsalted butter helps you do that while still getting all the rich, creamy flavor.
5. Versatile use – Unsalted butter works great in both sweet and savory dishes. From cookies to veggies, it blends well with other flavors.
6. Pure flavor – Since there’s no salt, you’re getting the pure taste of butter. Perfect for those who really love that creamy richness without any extra seasoning.

I always keep both types of butter in the fridge, but unsalted is my go-to for most things!

What Does Unsalted Butter Taste Like

Unsalted butter has a rich, creamy taste with a pure, clean flavor. Without the added salt, you can really taste the natural sweetness and milkiness of the butter. It’s smooth and mild, making it a perfect ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes, allowing other flavors to shine through without overpowering them.

How Unsalted Butter is Made

Here’s how you can make unsalted butter at home! It’s a fun and simple process, plus it’s great to know exactly what goes into it. Let’s walk through the steps together:

1. Start with the right cream

• To make the best homemade butter, you want to start with heavy cream or whipping cream that’s high in fat (around 36-40%). The higher the fat content, the creamier your butter will be. You can usually find this at the grocery store, but if you can, grab some fresh cream from a local dairy farm – it can make a world of difference in flavor!
• Tip: Use cold cream, especially if you’re whipping it by hand or in a warmer kitchen. Cold cream will separate faster when whipped.

2. Whip the cream

• Pour the cream into your stand mixer or a large mixing bowl if you’re using a hand mixer. Start the mixer on medium-high speed. After a few minutes, the cream will first turn into whipped cream. You know, the fluffy stuff we like to put on pies or in hot chocolate. But keep going!
• As you continue whipping, the cream will eventually start to look lumpy, and you’ll notice the fat separating from the liquid. The yellowish clumps are the butter, and the white liquid is buttermilk.
• Tip: If you don’t have a mixer, you can also use a blender or food processor. Some folks even shake it by hand in a jar, but that can take quite a bit of muscle! It’s a fun experiment with kids, though – they’ll love watching the cream magically turn into butter.

3. Keep whipping until it fully separates

• You’ll know you’re done when you have a clear separation between the butter solids and the buttermilk. The butter will start clumping around the whisk or beaters, and the liquid will be sloshing around the bowl. The whole process should take around 5-10 minutes, depending on your mixer’s speed and the temperature of your cream.
• Tip: If you stop too soon, you’ll just have thick whipped cream. But don’t worry, you can always keep whipping! On the flip side, if it’s been whipping for a long time and nothing’s happening, it might be too warm. Just pop the bowl in the fridge for a few minutes and try again.

4. Drain the buttermilk

• Once the butter has formed, pour everything through a strainer or cheesecloth to drain off the buttermilk. But don’t throw the buttermilk away – it’s still super useful! You can use it in recipes like pancakes, muffins, biscuits, or even as a tangy addition to smoothies.
• Tip: If you want to keep the buttermilk for later, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

5. Rinse and wash the butter

• This step is really important if you want your butter to last longer and have a smooth texture. The butter will still have some buttermilk clinging to it, which can make it spoil faster if not removed. To get rid of it, run cold water over the butter while pressing it with a spatula or your hands. Keep rinsing and kneading it until the water runs clear – this means all the buttermilk has been washed out.
• Tip: Some people add a splash of cold water to the butter in the mixer and continue to mix for a few seconds to help with the washing. Just be sure to drain the water well afterward.

6. Knead the butter

• After washing, knead the butter a bit more to get rid of any trapped moisture. You can do this by pressing it with a spatula, spoon, or even your hands. The more moisture you remove, the longer the butter will last.
• At this point, your butter is technically done! If you want to shape it into a neat block or roll, just mold it with your hands or use a butter mold if you have one.

7. Optional: Add flavorings (if desired)

• While we’re making unsalted butter, this is also a good time to get creative if you want to add some flavor. You can mix in herbs, garlic, or spices to make your own compound butter for cooking or spreading on bread. Just chop up your flavorings finely and knead them into the butter. It’s super customizable!
• Tip: If you want a touch of salt, now’s the time to add it. Just sprinkle a pinch of salt into the butter and knead it through.

8. Store the butter

• Homemade butter doesn’t have preservatives, so it needs to be stored properly. Wrap it in wax paper or put it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge, and it should last about 1-2 weeks. If you made more butter than you’ll use in that time, you can also freeze it! Just portion it out, wrap it tightly, and freeze it for up to 6 months.
• Tip: Some people even keep a butter bell on the counter, which helps keep butter fresh and spreadable for a few days at room temperature.

9. Enjoy your fresh butter!

• Now the fun part – using your homemade butter! Spread it on toast, use it in baking, or cook with it. There’s something super satisfying about knowing you made it from scratch.
• Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with making butter from different types of cream (like organic or grass-fed). You might notice subtle differences in flavor and texture.

Making butter at home is such a rewarding experience, and it’s surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it. Plus, it’s a great way to teach kids about where food comes from and let them be part of the process. There’s nothing quite like tasting fresh, creamy butter that you made yourself!

How to make unsalted butter into salted butter

Turning unsalted butter into salted butter is super easy! Here’s a simple guide to do it at home:

1. Start with unsalted butter – Grab your stick or block of unsalted butter. Make sure it’s soft, but not melted. You want it to be easy to mix.
2. Add salt – For each stick of butter, add about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt. If you like it a bit saltier, you can add a little more. It’s all about your taste preference!
3. Mix well – Use a spoon, fork, or even a spatula to mix the salt into the butter. Make sure it’s evenly distributed. You don’t want clumps of salt!
4. Taste and adjust – Give it a taste. If it needs more salt, just add a tiny bit more and mix again. Taste it again until it’s just right.
5. Store properly – Once you’re happy with the flavor, store the salted butter in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for a couple of weeks, or you can freeze it for longer storage.

I find this trick really handy, especially when a recipe calls for salted butter and I only have unsalted on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to customize the salt level to your liking!

How To Use Unsalted Butter

1. In Baking – Use unsalted butter for cookies, cakes, and muffins. It gives you control over the saltiness, so you can get the exact flavor your recipe calls for. Plus, it helps your baked goods taste fresher and more delicious.
2. Cooking Savory Dishes – For frying or sautéing veggies, unsalted butter adds a rich, creamy taste without any extra salt. It’s great for making sauces too, just melt it down and mix with herbs or spices for a flavorful touch.
3. Making Spreads – Mix unsalted butter with herbs, garlic, or even a bit of honey to create yummy spreads for bread or crackers. It’s a simple way to jazz up your snacks.
4. In Sauces and Soups – Add a dollop of unsalted butter at the end of cooking to make your sauces and soups extra creamy and smooth. It’s like a secret ingredient that makes everything taste better!
5. For Greasing Pans – Use unsalted butter to grease your baking pans. It keeps your goodies from sticking and adds a bit of flavor. Just make sure to spread it evenly.
6. In Homemade Butter – If you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix unsalted butter with herbs or spices to make your own flavored butter for cooking or spreading.

I find that keeping unsalted butter around makes my cooking so much easier and tastier. It’s like having a little kitchen helper ready to go!

Substitute for Unsalted Butter

If you’re out of unsalted butter or just looking for something different, here are some great substitutes you can use:

1. Salted Butter – You can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but just remember to cut back on any extra salt in your recipe. It’ll still give you that rich, creamy taste!
2. Margarine – Margarine works well as a butter substitute in most recipes. It’s got a similar texture and taste, though it might not have that same buttery richness.
3. Coconut Oil – For a different twist, try coconut oil. It’s great for adding a subtle coconut flavor and works well in baking. Just note, it might change the texture a bit.
4. Greek Yogurt – If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute. It adds moisture and a slight tang, making it great for cakes and muffins.
5. Applesauce – Applesauce is another healthier choice. It’s great for making baked goods moist and adds a hint of sweetness. Just remember it’ll make your recipe a bit softer.
6. Vegetable Oil – Vegetable oil can replace butter in many recipes, especially in cakes and muffins. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a neutral taste.
7. Cream Cheese – For a richer, tangy flavor, cream cheese can be a great choice. It’s perfect for frosting or creamy sauces but might not be the best for everything.

I often mix and match depending on what I’ve got in the kitchen. It’s all about experimenting and finding what works best for your recipe!

Where to Buy Unsalted Butter

If you’re wondering where to find unsalted butter, here’s a list to help you out:

1. Grocery stores – Most big grocery stores have unsalted butter in their dairy section. Look for it near the salted butter, usually in the refrigerated area.
2. Health food stores – Places that focus on organic and natural products often carry unsalted butter, sometimes even from grass-fed cows, which can be a nice option.
3. Farmers’ markets – You might find unsalted butter at local farmers’ markets. It’s a great way to support local farmers and get really fresh butter.
4. Specialty food stores – Stores that specialize in gourmet or international foods usually have a variety of butters, including unsalted ones.
5. Online retailers – If you prefer shopping from home, many online stores sell unsalted butter. Just make sure to check the delivery options to keep it chilled until it arrives.

I always grab mine from the grocery store, but it’s nice to have options, especially if you’re looking for something a little different or more local!

How To Store Unsalted Butter

Here’s how to store unsalted butter in different ways,

1. In the Fridge:
   • How to Do It: Simply keep the butter in its original wrapping or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. You can also use a dedicated butter dish with a lid to keep it neatly stored.
   • Why It’s Good: The fridge keeps butter firm and fresh for up to a month. It’s easy to grab a stick or a pat whenever you need it for cooking or baking.
   • Tip: If you use a lot of butter, consider keeping a small dish of butter on the counter for everyday use, while the rest stays in the fridge.
2. In the Freezer:
   • How to Do It: Wrap the butter tightly in plastic wrap, foil, or wax paper. For extra protection, place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. Label it with the date so you remember how long it’s been stored.
   • Why It’s Good: Freezing extends the shelf life to 6-9 months. It’s great for bulk purchases or if you want to make sure you always have butter on hand for those baking projects or unexpected recipes.
   • Tip: When you need butter, move it to the fridge to thaw slowly. It’s best to let it sit in the fridge for a day or two before using it so it returns to a workable consistency.
3. Butter Dish on the Counter:
   • How to Do It: Use a butter dish with a lid or a covered butter bell to keep the butter at room temperature. Just make sure the dish is clean and dry before adding the butter.
   • Why It’s Good: This method makes it easy to spread butter right out of the dish. It’s convenient for daily use, and the butter remains soft and easy to work with.
   • Tip: Only keep out a small amount of butter—enough to last a week or so. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat without risking spoilage.
4. In a Butter Bell:
   • How to Do It: Fill the bottom part of the bell with a bit of water, which creates a seal. Place softened butter into the lid, then invert it into the bottom part. The water keeps air out and bacteria at bay.
   • Why It’s Good: This method keeps the butter at room temperature while keeping it fresh and spreadable. The water seal prevents the butter from going rancid.
   • Tip: Make sure to change the water regularly to maintain freshness. This method is perfect for those who love a bit of kitchen elegance!
5. In a Butter Keeper:
   • How to Do It: A butter keeper is similar to a butter bell but usually doesn’t involve water. It’s an airtight container designed specifically for butter. Just place the butter in the container and seal it.
   • Why It’s Good: It keeps butter fresh and spreadable at room temperature. It’s a practical and stylish way to store butter, especially if you have a lot of room on your countertop.
   • Tip: Choose a butter keeper made of a material that’s easy to clean, like ceramic or plastic, to maintain hygiene.

Each method has its benefits depending on how much butter you use and how often you need it. I find that using a combination of these methods works best for my family’s needs!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)