Have You Tried a Butter Board Yet? We’re In Love With These 5 Mouthwatering Creations
Get your creativity flowing.
Fall gatherings always feel more complete with a charcuterie board. It’s an easy way to appeal to any palate — sliced figs and crackers in one corner, prosciutto and mozzarella in another. And yet, you might want to change your approach this year, because social media has taken charcuterie to a whole new level with the butter board.
Before you judge the butter board, know that it’s not what you think — you don’t lay butter bricks in rows. Instead, you spread softened butter in a pattern on a wooden server or platter, and decorate with your favorite garnishes. Then, your guests use toasted bread to swipe up the delicious flavor combos.
Chef and author Joshua McFadden was the first to create a butter board, and he seems very excited that they’ve finally taken off. To give you a taste of inspiration, check out our favorite creations below.
The Original: Herbed Butter With Warm Bread
None of this would have started without McFadden’s original recipe: softened butter spread in a thick layer, topped with fresh rosemary, lavender, pepper, and crushed pistachios. It’s unique and packed with flavor.
The One That Went Viral: Fresh Coriander, Edible Flowers, and Honey
Brooklyn-based chef Justine Doiron’s take on the butter board was an instant hit, perhaps because it’s so visually appealing. On top of her softened butter, she sprinkled flaky salt, lemon zest, fresh coriander, thin slices of onion, and edible flowers. The finisher was a delicious drizzle of honey and warm brown bread for swiping.
The Charcuterie-Butter Blend
Looking for pops of color? Instagram user and foodie Sarah Fowler made a butter board that featured bright purple French breakfast radishes (traditional radish slices will also do the trick if you can’t find this variety), Castelvetrano olives, Marcona almonds, cheese coins (crunchy baked cheese snacks), and fresh sourdough. Mmmm.
The South-Asian Flavored Butter Board
We loved this version by TikToker Zaynah for its floral pattern, which was enhanced by sweet mango chutney, sea salt, crispy garlic, coriander, and ghee (clarified butter). When served with fresh naan, you’ll keep coming back for more.
A Lighter Fare: Whipped Cream Cheese
If you’d rather serve your guests a lower-calorie board that won’t spoil their appetite, TikToker and dietitian Rachel Paul has a solution: whipped cream cheese in place of butter. Her board features lemon zest, salt, chives, dill, and maple syrup. Serve with grain bread or sliced cucumbers and satisfy those cravings.
