Homemade butter is a tasty and thoughtful gift. Photo: Monika Bartyzel
This couldn't be simpler. Pour some cream into the mixer, cover with splash protectors and kitchen towels to keep the mess at bay, and run at a high speed. It will turn into whipped cream, and then break down to skim milk and creamy butter. Take the butter, press it well with a wooden spoon while adding in salt (if desired), and then rinse with cold water a few times to rinse out any residual milk.
You can package as-is, or add a mixture of herbs and flavor to make a delectable gourmet gift. (Chives, rosemary, garlic, or even brandy are great options!) The finished product can be jarred and labeled, or rolled into a log with parchment paper so that slabs can be cut and served.
The only down-side to this gift is that it lasts roughly a week in the fridge, but can easily be frozen and thawed to use as needed.
