The very best way to do a butter board for the holidays.
The very best way to do a butter board for the holidays. is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 456 calories per serving. Recipe by Erin Simpson Lozier on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 30 min
Cost: $4.35 total, $1.09 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened to room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Chives (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Raspberry Jam (any brand, preferably seedless)
- 0.25 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Pistachios (finely chopped)
- 3 sprigs Fresh Rosemary (small sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (light drizzle)
Instructions
Soften the Butter
Leave the butter at room temperature for about 15‑20 minutes until it is soft but still holds its shape.
Time: PT15M
Spread Butter in Swoops
Using the offset spatula or flat knife, scoop the softened butter onto the board and create decorative swoops or ribbons across the surface.
Time: PT5M
Add Chives
Sprinkle the finely chopped chives evenly over the butter swoops.
Time: PT2M
Place Raspberry Jam Dollops
Drop small dollops of raspberry jam (about 1‑2 teaspoons each) at intervals across the board.
Time: PT2M
Sprinkle Red Pepper Flakes
Lightly dust the crushed red pepper flakes over the butter and jam for a subtle heat.
Time: PT1M
Add Pistachios
Scatter the finely chopped pistachios over the board for crunch and color.
Time: PT2M
Garnish with Rosemary
Place the rosemary sprigs strategically for aroma and visual appeal.
Time: PT1M
Drizzle Honey
Finish the board with a thin drizzle of honey over the butter and toppings.
Time: PT1M
Serve
Allow the butter board to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes, then serve with sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh fruit.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 456
- Protein
- 2g
- Carbohydrates
- 33g
- Fat
- 187g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-free
Allergens: Dairy, Tree nuts, Honey (bee product)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Plant-based butter
- Instead of Fresh Chives: Green onions, Parsley
- Instead of Raspberry Jam: Strawberry jam, Fig jam
- Instead of Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Paprika, Cayenne pepper
- Instead of Pistachios: Almonds, Walnuts
- Instead of Fresh Rosemary: Thyme, Sage
- Instead of Honey: Maple syrup, Agave nectar
Equipment Needed
- Wooden Cutting Board
- Offset Spatula
- Small Spoon
- Sharp Knife
- Small Bowls (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Softening the butter to the right consistency
- Spreading butter in even swoops without breaking the shape
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra visual appeal, use a contrasting colored board (e.g., dark walnut) to make the butter swoops pop.
- Lightly toast the pistachios before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter board, add a thin layer of honey over the entire butter before adding toppings.
Troubleshooting
Butter is too hard to spread.
Let the butter sit at room temperature longer or cut it into smaller pieces to soften faster.
Toppings slide off the butter.
Ensure the butter is soft but not melted; a firmer surface will hold toppings better.
Honey drips too much and makes the board soggy.
Drizzle a very thin line using a honey dipper and spread any excess with the back of a spoon.
Storage
Refrigerator: Cover tightly with plastic wrap; keep up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; butter may become grainy after thawing.
Room temperature: Safe for up to 2 hours at room temperature.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the softened butter and chop all toppings up to 24 hours ahead; store them separately in airtight containers.
- Assemble the board just before serving to keep the butter from becoming too soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of a butter board in American holiday entertaining?
Butter boards have become a modern trend in the United States, especially during holiday gatherings, as a visually striking way to present a simple spread. They reflect the recent social‑media‑driven focus on communal, shareable platters that combine flavor and aesthetics.
What are traditional regional variations of butter boards in American cuisine?
While the classic butter board is plain butter, regional twists include adding herbs like dill in the Midwest, smoked paprika in the South, or citrus zest in coastal areas. Erin Simpson Lozier’s version adds raspberry jam and pistachios for a sweet‑savory holiday twist.
How is a butter board traditionally served during holiday celebrations in the United States?
A butter board is typically placed at the center of a buffet or coffee table, surrounded by sliced baguette, crackers, fresh fruit, and sometimes cheese. Guests spread the butter onto their chosen vehicle, creating a personalized bite.
What occasions or celebrations is a butter board traditionally associated with in American culture?
Butter boards are popular at Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve gatherings, Thanksgiving brunches, and other festive occasions where a communal, easy‑to‑assemble appetizer is desired.
What makes Erin Simpson Lozier’s holiday butter board special compared to other butter board recipes?
Erin Simpson Lozier combines sweet (raspberry jam, honey) and savory (chives, rosemary, crushed red pepper) elements, plus crunchy pistachios, creating a balanced flavor profile that feels both festive and sophisticated.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making a butter board at home?
Common errors include using butter that is too cold, which makes spreading difficult, and over‑loading toppings so they slide off. Also, drizzling too much honey can make the board soggy.
Why does this butter board recipe use crushed red pepper flakes instead of fresh chili?
Crushed red pepper flakes distribute heat evenly without adding moisture, preserving the butter’s texture while still providing a subtle kick that complements the sweet jam and honey.
Can I make the holiday butter board ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the softened butter and chop all toppings up to a day ahead. Store the butter covered in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before assembling; keep toppings in separate airtight containers.
What texture and appearance should I look for when spreading the butter on the board?
The butter should be soft enough to hold a swooping shape without breaking, with a smooth, glossy surface. The toppings should be evenly spaced, providing bursts of color and contrast.
What does the YouTube channel Erin Simpson Lozier specialize in?
The YouTube channel Erin Simpson Lozier focuses on approachable, seasonal home cooking, offering creative twists on classic dishes and entertaining ideas for holidays and everyday meals.
How does the YouTube channel Erin Simpson Lozier’s approach to holiday cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Erin Simpson Lozier emphasizes simple, visually appealing presentations that use everyday ingredients, often adding unexpected flavor pairings like jam and nuts to elevate traditional holiday spreads, whereas many channels focus on more elaborate or traditional recipes.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
