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Cheese Butter: A Decadent Appetizer

Transform ordinary butter into an extraordinary culinary experience with this simple yet sophisticated Cheese Butter recipe. This versatile spread is perfect for enhancing the flavor of crusty bread, topping grilled steaks, or adding a creamy, cheesy dimension to vegetables. Elevate your appetizer game and impress your guests with this easy-to-make delight. Prepare to indulge in a symphony of creamy butter and sharp cheese, a flavor combination that is both comforting and utterly irresistible. This recipe is a must-try for cheese lovers!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt (optional, to taste)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped chives, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until evenly distributed throughout the butter mixture.
4. Taste the cheese butter and add a pinch of salt, if desired. Be mindful of the saltiness of the cheeses already used.
5. Transfer the cheese butter to a serving dish or ramekin.
6. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will also firm up the butter slightly.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

Cooking Tips and Variations

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! Try Gruyere, Gouda, or even a smoked cheese for a unique flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Add other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Lover’s Delight: Use roasted garlic instead of garlic powder for a deeper, more nuanced garlic flavor.
• Sweet and Savory: A drizzle of honey can create a surprisingly delicious sweet and savory cheese butter.
• Vegan Option: Substitute vegan butter and vegan cream cheese along with your favorite vegan shredded cheese to make a plant-based alternative.

Nutritional Highlights (Approximate)

Please note that nutritional information is approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Cheese butter is high in fat and calories. It also contains protein and calcium from the cheese. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

• Storage: Store leftover cheese butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Serving Suggestions:
  • Spread on crusty bread, crackers, or bagels.
  • Use as a topping for grilled steaks, chicken, or fish.
  • Add a dollop to steamed or roasted vegetables.
  • Stir into mashed potatoes for a cheesy flavor boost.
  • Use as a base for canapés or hors d’oeuvres.
• Serving Temperature: Serve chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Allowing it to soften slightly at room temperature enhances its spreadability.

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