Types of Butter

How many types of butter are there?

Updated 9/12/23

It's debatable exactly HOW many different types of butter are out there, but some of the most popular are:

• salted butter

• unsalted butter

• sweet cream butter

• whipped butter

• clarified butter

• ghee

Each type of butter has a different flavor and purpose. Salted butter is the most common type of butter, and it can be used for cooking or baking. Unsalted butter has a more delicate flavor, so it is often used in baking. Sweet cream butter is made from sweet cream, and it has a richer flavor than other types of butter. Whipped butter is light and airy, and it is often used as a spread. Clarified butter is made by removing the milk solids from regular butter, so it has a higher smoke point and can be used for cooking at higher temperatures. Ghee is made by simmering butter until the water evaporates, and it has a nutty flavor.

What is the best type of butter to eat?

That really depends on your personal preference! Some people prefer the flavor of salted butter, while others prefer unsalted butter. It really just comes down to what you like best. Whipped butter and clarified butter are also becoming more popular as people learn more about them. Ghee is a good option for those who are looking for a dairy-free alternative to regular butter.

No matter which type of butter you choose, make sure that you are getting it from a reputable source. Butter is a perishable product, so you want to make sure that you are getting it from a place that has high quality standards. That way, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible product.

Is it possible to make cannabutter at home?

It sure is! There are all kinds of weed butter machines that help make this whole process so much easer. Whether you are planning to make gummies, chocolate or another baked good. Take the LEVO II for example, this is a high-end piece of equipment that will truly streamline the edible process.

First and foremost, there are numerous weed butter machines available that simplify this process considerably. They are especially useful for those who are new to the world of cannabis edibles or those who prefer a hassle-free approach. For instance, if you're thinking of crafting gummies, chocolates, or any other delectable treats, having a reliable machine can make all the difference. The LEVO II is a prime example of such equipment. It's a premium device that minimizes the mess, maintains consistent potency, and overall, streamlines the edible-making journey.

However, it's not just about the machinery. The quality of cannabis you use is crucial. It's advisable to choose a strain that aligns with the desired effects of your edibles. Whether you're aiming for relaxation, a burst of creativity, or pain relief, there's likely a strain suited to your needs.

For those who appreciate tradition, the stovetop method remains a tried-and-true technique. It involves gently simmering cannabis in butter over a span of several hours. While it requires more attention to detail than machine methods, many argue it allows for a richer infusion and greater control over the final product.

Which butter is pure butter?

There is no such thing as "pure butter." Butter is a dairy product that is made by churning cream. The cream contains milkfat, which is what gives butter its rich flavor and texture. Milkfat can vary from 40 to 80 percent, depending on the type of butter. For example, clarified butter has a higher milkfat content than regular butter.

What are the benefits of eating butter?

Butter is a good source of vitamin A and it also contains other vitamins and minerals. Additionally, butter is a source of saturated fat, which is necessary for the body to function properly. Saturated fat has been unfairly demonized in recent years, but it is an essential part of the diet. Butter also contains conjugated linoleic acid, which has been shown to have a number of health benefits.

What butter do chefs like to use?

Unsalted Butter

This is arguably the most preferred choice among chefs. Unlike its salted counterpart, unsalted butter offers a pure, sweet cream flavor. The absence of salt means chefs have precise control over the salt content in their dishes, ensuring a balanced and harmonious taste profile. It's especially valuable in baking, where precise measurements are critical for the desired outcome.

Whipped Butter

Gaining traction in modern kitchens, whipped butter boasts a light, airy texture due to the incorporation of air or nitrogen during its production. It spreads more easily, making it a top pick for bread baskets in restaurants. Additionally, its unique texture can elevate certain dishes, lending a fluffier consistency.

Ghee or Clarified Butter

Originally from the Indian subcontinent, ghee is butter that's been simmered and strained to remove all water and milk solids, resulting in a clear golden liquid. What makes ghee a favorite among some chefs is its high smoke point, allowing for frying and sautéing without the risk of burning. Its rich nutty flavor can also add depth to dishes. Moreover, being free of dairy solids, ghee is often a preferred choice for those with lactose sensitivities or following certain dietary regimens.

European-style Butter

This butter contains a higher fat content compared to regular butter. The increased fat percentage, often 82% or more, results in a creamier texture and richer flavor. It's particularly favored in pastries and sauces for its ability to produce flakier layers and a smoother finish.

Cultured Butter

Made by fermenting cream before churning, cultured butter offers a tangy, distinct flavor. Its unique taste is a result of the live bacterial cultures added during production, making it a darling for many chefs looking to introduce a nuanced taste to their creations.

The choice of butter depends largely on the specific culinary application and the chef's personal preference. Whether it's the pure delicacy of unsalted butter, the airy charm of whipped butter, the robust profile of ghee, or the rich creaminess of European-style butter, each type has its own merits in the world of gourmet cooking.

What is the difference between butter and margarine?

Butter is made from cream, while margarine is made from vegetable oil. Butter contains milkfat, while margarine does not. Margarine is usually lower in calories than butter, but it also contains trans fats, which can be harmful to your health. For these reasons, margarine is not considered to be a healthy option.

What is considered high quality butter?

Butter is a perishable product, so you want to make sure that you are getting it from a place that has high quality standards. That way, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible product. Look for butter that is made from grass-fed cows and that has a high milkfat content. Avoid butter that contains trans fats.

What is the difference between European butter and American butter?

European butter typically has a higher milkfat content than American butter. This gives it a richer flavor and texture. Additionally, European butter is usually made from grass-fed cows, while American butter may not be.