Say hello to the ultimate seasonal treat: Rhubarb Butter! This irresistible spread captures all the tangy brightness of fresh rhubarb and transforms it into a velvety, spoonable delight that’s perfect for toast, pancakes, or simply licking off a spoon. There’s something truly magical about starting with the most basic ingredients and ending with a spread that’s as bold in flavor as it is vibrant in color. Rhubarb Butter is a staple you’ll want in your fridge every spring, ready to elevate breakfasts, snacks, and even desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe lets each ingredient shine, accentuating rhubarb’s natural tartness while balancing it with just the right amount of sweetness and a gentle spice. Every addition plays a special role in creating the smoothest, brightest Rhubarb Butter imaginable.

Rhubarb: The star ingredient, providing a tart-sweet punch and naturally rosy hue.
Granulated sugar: Brings harmony to the tart rhubarb, ensuring the butter is perfectly balanced.
Water: Helps the rhubarb break down evenly as it cooks for a silky, spreadable consistency.
Lemon zest: Adds a burst of freshness and aromatic citrus notes.
Lemon juice: Enhances the rhubarb flavor and brings a zippy brightness to the spread.
Ground cinnamon: Lends gentle warmth and depth that complements rhubarb’s tang.
Ground ginger: A hint of spice that lifts all the other flavors and adds intrigue.
Pinch of salt: Just enough to make every nuance sing and round out the sweetness.

How to Make Rhubarb Butter

Step 1: Combine and Simmer

Start by gathering your chopped rhubarb, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Place the pot over medium heat and bring everything together with a gentle stir. As the mixture starts bubbling, the rhubarb will slowly soften, releasing its juices and filling your kitchen with an irresistible, spring-scented aroma. Stir every few minutes and witness the transformation as the stalks collapse into tender, vibrant pieces over 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flavor and Spice

Once your rhubarb is lovely and soft, it’s time to amp up the flavor. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and that essential pinch of salt. These ingredients brighten and deepen the flavor profile of your Rhubarb Butter, making every spoonful more intriguing. Reduce the heat to low and let everything gently simmer for an extra 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to help the flavors marry together.

Step 3: Blend to Perfection

The secret to seriously dreamy Rhubarb Butter is a silky-smooth texture. For this, grab your immersion blender right in the pot (or carefully transfer the hot mixture to a blender). Process until the spread is completely smooth and velvety, with the most gorgeous color you could imagine. If you prefer a little texture, you can leave it slightly chunky — it’s all about your preference here.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Once blended, let your Rhubarb Butter cool down completely in the pot before transferring it into a clean jar or any airtight container you have on hand. You’ll marvel at how it thickens and intensifies as it chills. Tuck it in the refrigerator where it will keep beautifully for up to two weeks, ready to spread joy over every meal or snack.

How to Serve Rhubarb Butter

Garnishes

Dress up your homemade Rhubarb Butter with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a fluttering of finely chopped mint for a touch of freshness. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few curls of candied ginger give it extra visual and flavor flair. Even a spoonful of plain yogurt swirled on top can make it look extra inviting when you serve it in a little bowl.

Side Dishes

Rhubarb Butter is the ultimate toast topper, but don’t stop there! Try dolloping it onto pancakes, waffles, scones, or even warm biscuits. It’s also spectacular spooned over oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, or used as a tangy counterpoint alongside cheese boards and roasted meats. Let your imagination run wild — you’ll find Rhubarb Butter pairs beautifully with sweet and savory bites alike.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching brunch spread, present your Rhubarb Butter in a small glass jar surrounded by an assortment of toast, croissants, and fresh berries. It makes an incredible filling for thumbprint cookies or as a swirl through cheesecake batter. You can even layer it into trifles or serve it in mini jars as a charming homemade gift — it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser on any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Rhubarb Butter is cooled, transfer it into a clean jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks. The flavors meld even further as it rests, making it more delicious with every passing day. Just be sure to use a clean spoon each time to maximize its shelf life.

Freezing

Rhubarb Butter freezes like a dream! Spoon it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving a bit of headspace for expansion. Label and date it, then freeze for up to six months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving — it’ll taste just as fresh as the day you made it.

Reheating

If your Rhubarb Butter feels too thick after chilling or freezing, you can gently rewarm small amounts in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds at a time, giving it a quick stir until it’s just spreadable — never boiling or overheating, as that can dull the vibrant flavor and color.

FAQs

Do I need to peel rhubarb for Rhubarb Butter?

No peeling necessary! Rhubarb’s thin skin softens deliciously when cooked and adds natural color and body to the butter, so just trim the ends and chop.

Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Simply measure out four cups of chopped frozen rhubarb (no need to thaw), and proceed as directed. The recipe works beautifully year-round this way.

Is it possible to reduce the amount of sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a tangier butter. Taste your rhubarb — if it’s especially tart, you may want to keep the full amount, but adjust to your liking and add more sweetener at the end if needed.

How can I make my Rhubarb Butter extra silky?

Blending is your best friend here! Use an immersion blender or a high-speed blender to achieve an ultra-smooth, velvety texture. Strain through a fine mesh sieve for an even silkier finish, if desired.

What can I do if my Rhubarb Butter isn’t thickening?

Keep cooking it over low heat, stirring often, until excess liquid evaporates and it reaches the consistency you like. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so be patient — your patience will be rewarded with the perfect spread.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making your own Rhubarb Butter, this is your sign to start — it’s simple, stunning, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Give it a spot in your fridge, and I guarantee you’ll find a hundred excuses to spread, swirl, and savor every tangy-sweet spoonful. Let this homemade gem brighten your mornings and sweeten the way you enjoy spring’s signature stalk!