This creamy garlic scapes butter is a tasty way to add flavor to your dishes. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a smooth and garlicky spread that’s perfect for bread or veggies!
Honestly, every time I make this, I can’t help but slather it on everything! It’s fun to see my friends’ faces light up when they taste it. Give it a try, and you might become the butter-making superstar of your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is your base for the creamy texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using plant-based butter or a combination of olive oil and coconut cream.
Garlic Scapes: These green shoots are milder than garlic cloves but still pack a punch. If you can’t find garlic scapes, try green onions or chives for a similar flavor profile. Regular garlic can also work, but use it sparingly!
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness to the butter. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of vinegar can serve as an alternative. However, lemon zest is a great substitute for a more intense citrus flavor.
Heavy Cream or Crème Fraîche: This creates that creamy consistency you want. Greek yogurt or sour cream can be good alternatives if you’re looking for something lighter.
How Do I Ensure My Garlic Scapes Butter is Smooth and Creamy?
To get that perfect creamy texture, a few steps really matter. First, make sure your butter is truly softened; this helps it blend better. If it’s too hard, you’ll end up with lumps.
- After sautéing the garlic scapes, let them cool for a few minutes to avoid melting the butter when you mix them.
- In the food processor, blend the ingredients until smooth. If it’s too thick, slowly drizzle in more heavy cream or crème fraîche while blending.
- Finally, taste your butter! Adjust seasoning or creaminess to your liking before refrigerating.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Scapes Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup garlic scapes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra garlic punch)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or crème fraîche (for creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, plus 1 hour of chilling time for the flavors to meld together. In total, you’ll spend just over an hour before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Scapes:
Start by rinsing the garlic scapes under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, chop them into small pieces, about 1-2 inches long. This will help them sauté evenly and blend nicely into the butter.
2. Sauté the Scapes:
In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil or butter. Once hot, add the chopped garlic scapes to the skillet. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender and fragrant. Keep an eye on them, stirring occasionally, and once done, remove from heat and let them cool down a bit.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a food processor, combine the softened butter, the sautéed garlic scapes, minced garlic (if you want an extra boost of garlic flavor), lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Pulse a few times to combine.
4. Blend Until Smooth:
Continue blending the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. If the butter is too thick, you can gradually add in the heavy cream or crème fraîche, blending until you reach your desired level of creaminess.
5. Taste and Adjust:
After blending, take a taste of your creamy garlic scapes butter. If needed, adjust salt and seasoning to suit your preference. This is your chance to make it just right!
6. Chill the Butter:
Transfer the finished butter to a container with a lid. Cover it well and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
7. Enjoy Your Creation:
Once chilled, your creamy garlic scapes butter is ready to serve! You can spread it on bread, melt it over steamed vegetables, or use it as a finishing touch for grilled meats or fish. Enjoy all that garlicky goodness!
Can I Use Regular Garlic Instead of Garlic Scapes?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have garlic scapes on hand, use 1-2 cloves of garlic instead. Just remember to sauté them for a shorter time since they cook faster than scapes. Start with less and adjust to your taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Garlic Scapes Butter?
Store any leftover butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it in small portions for longer storage—just scoop it into an ice cube tray and pop it in the freezer!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist. You might need to adjust the amount to achieve your desired creaminess.
How Can I Use Creamy Garlic Scapes Butter?
This versatile butter can be spread on toasted bread, melted over grilled vegetables, or used as a finishing butter for steaks, fish, or pasta dishes. Let your imagination run wild with how you use it!
