Making butter with a hand mixer is a simple and rewarding process. Here's how you do it:
Steps to Making Butter with a Hand Mixer
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Pour Cold Heavy Cream: Pour cold, heavy cream (pasteurized but not ultra-pasteurized works best) into a large mixing bowl. The bowl should be large enough to accommodate the cream as it splashes during the mixing process.
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Mix on Medium-High Speed: Using the beaters attachment of your hand mixer (not the whisk attachment), begin mixing the cream at medium-high speed.
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Observe the Transformation: The cream will go through several stages:
- First, it will thicken into soft whipped cream.
- Next, it will become stiff whipped cream, holding its shape well.
- Finally, it will begin to separate. This is when the butterfat (solids) starts to separate from the buttermilk (liquid).
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Continue Mixing Until Separation: Continue mixing until the butterfat clumps together and separates from the buttermilk. This may take several minutes, so be patient. The mixture will look curdled.
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Drain the Buttermilk: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander to separate the butter from the buttermilk. Save the buttermilk for use in other recipes (like pancakes or biscuits).
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Rinse and Knead the Butter: Rinse the butter under cold water, kneading it with your hands or a spatula to remove any remaining buttermilk. This is important for extending the shelf life of your butter, as residual buttermilk can cause it to spoil more quickly. Continue rinsing and kneading until the water runs clear.
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Salt (Optional): If desired, add salt to taste and knead it into the butter. This will help preserve the butter and enhance its flavor.
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Shape and Store: Shape the butter into a log or other desired form using parchment paper or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer storage (up to a few months).
Tips for Success
- Cold Cream is Key: Starting with cold cream is crucial for proper butter formation.
- Don't Overmix (Initially): While you need to mix until separation, avoid overmixing before reaching the whipped cream stage, as this can make the process less efficient.
- Patience is a Virtue: The process can take some time, so don't be discouraged if it doesn't happen immediately.
- Taste the Buttermilk: Freshly made buttermilk is delicious!
