How to Make Herb-Infused Butter & Oils

Amanda

Herb-infused butter and oils are an easy and delicious way to enhance your cooking with fresh flavors from your garden. Whether drizzled over roasted vegetables, spread on bread, or used in marinades, homemade herb-infused butters and oils add depth and aroma to any dish. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make, store, and use herb-infused butter and oils, plus get inspired with creative flavor combinations.

Why Make Herb-Infused Butter & Oils?

✅ Enhances Flavor – Fresh herbs create bold, aromatic infusions.
✅ Uses Homegrown Ingredients – Enjoy the taste of your garden year-round.
✅ No Artificial Additives – Pure, fresh, and preservative-free.
✅ Great for Gifting – Make gourmet butter and oils for friends and family.
✅ Versatile Uses – Perfect for cooking, baking, dipping, and finishing dishes.

📌 Grow your own herbs with our premium seed collection!

Best Herbs for Infusing

Some herbs work better in butters, while others shine in oils. Here’s a guide to picking the best ones:

Best Herbs for Butter:

  • Basil

  • Parsley

  • Thyme

  • Rosemary

  • Chives

  • Garlic (minced or roasted)

  • Dill

  • Oregano

Best Herbs for Oil:

  • Rosemary

  • Thyme

  • Basil

  • Sage

  • Chili peppers (for heat-infused oils)

  • Lemon zest (for citrus-infused oils)

  • Garlic (use dried or roasted to prevent spoilage)

How to Make Herb-Infused Butter

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 2-3 tbsp fresh herbs, finely chopped

  • 1/2 tsp salt (optional)

  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Instructions:

  1. Soften Butter – Let butter sit at room temperature until soft but not melted.

  2. Prepare Herbs – Finely chop fresh herbs and garlic if using.

  3. Mix Together – In a bowl, combine softened butter with herbs, salt, and lemon zest. Mix until fully incorporated.

  4. Shape & Store – Roll into a log using parchment paper or store in an airtight container.

  5. Refrigerate or Freeze – Chill for at least 2 hours before using. Keeps for 1 week in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

How to Make Herb-Infused Oil (Cold & Heat Methods)

Cold Infusion Method (Best for Delicate Herbs)

  • Great for: Basil, dill, parsley, tarragon

  • Shelf life: Up to 1 month in the refrigerator

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups olive oil or neutral oil (such as avocado oil)

  • 1 cup fresh herbs, washed and dried

Instructions:

  1. Chop Herbs – Crush or finely chop herbs to release oils.

  2. Blend & Strain – Combine herbs with oil in a blender and blend for 1-2 minutes.

  3. Strain Through Cheesecloth – Pour through a cheesecloth into a clean jar.

  4. Store in Refrigerator – Use within 1 month.

Heat Infusion Method (Best for Sturdy Herbs & Long Shelf Life)

  • Great for: Rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, chili peppers

  • Shelf life: Up to 3 months at room temperature

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups olive oil or neutral oil

  • 1/2 cup dried herbs or roasted garlic (moisture-free prevents spoilage)

Instructions:

  1. Gently Heat Oil – In a saucepan, warm oil over low heat (do not boil).

  2. Add Herbs & Simmer – Stir in dried herbs and heat for 5-10 minutes.

  3. Cool & Strain – Remove from heat, let sit for 1 hour, then strain.

  4. Store in a Sterile Bottle – Keep in a cool, dark place.

Flavorful Herb Butter Variations

🌿 Garlic & Chive Butter – Great for steak, potatoes, and bread. 🌿 Basil & Lemon Butter – Perfect for pasta and seafood. 🌿 Rosemary & Thyme Butter – Delicious on roasted meats and vegetables. 🌿 Dill & Parsley Butter – Ideal for fish, eggs, and grilled veggies. 🌿 Spicy Chili Butter – A bold choice for grilled corn and tacos.

Flavorful Herb Oil Variations

🍶 Rosemary Garlic Oil – Amazing for drizzling over roasted potatoes.
🍶 Basil & Chili Oil – A spicy kick for pizza and pasta.
🍶 Thyme Lemon Oil – Light and refreshing for salads.
🍶 Sage & Black Pepper Oil – A rich choice for roasted meats.
🍶 Oregano & Sundried Tomato Oil – A perfect base for Italian cooking.

How to Use Herb-Infused Butter & Oils

✅ Spread on Bread & Biscuits – Elevate simple toast with gourmet flavor.
✅ Melt Over Vegetables – Adds a delicious finishing touch.
✅ Use in Pasta & Sauces – Herb butter or oil enhances any pasta dish.
✅ Drizzle Over Meats & Fish – Infused oils bring out deep flavors.
✅ Mix into Mashed Potatoes & Rice – Boosts richness and aroma.
✅ Use in Baking – Herb butter works beautifully in savory baked goods.

Storage Tips & Shelf Life

  • Herb Butter: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for 3 months.

  • Cold-Infused Oil: Refrigerate and use within 1 month.

  • Heat-Infused Oil: Store in a cool, dark place and use within 3 months.

  • Prevent Spoilage: Always use dry herbs for oils and ensure no moisture gets into your storage containers.

Start Growing & Infusing Today!

Making herb-infused butter and oils is a simple way to enjoy fresh, gourmet flavors in your cooking. Start your herb garden today with our premium seeds and elevate your home cooking!

🌱 Browse our seed collection and start growing flavorful herbs today!

 

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