Butter is one of the most essential ingredients used in countless dishes, from flaky pastries to creamy mashed potatoes. And choosing the right brand can make or break your dish. Some brands cut corners, filling their butter with lower-quality ingredients, artificial additives, or just lack that rich, creamy flavor. With so many options on the shelves, which ones should you steer clear of? And which brands truly stand out? Let’s find out!
1. Challenge Butter
Who says affordable butter can’t be great? Challenge Butter delivers a smooth, creamy texture that rivals pricier brands. Its mild flavor makes it perfect for pancakes, dinner rolls, and everyday cooking. This brand proves that a lower price tag doesn’t mean lower quality—sometimes, a simple classic is all you need.
2. Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter
Kerrygold’s rich, golden color comes from grass-fed cows, and you can taste the difference. With a higher butterfat content than standard American brands, it’s exceptionally creamy and full-flavored. Whether slathered on toast or baked into delicate pastries, Kerrygold is a premium pick that makes every bite indulgent.
3. Vital Farms Salted Butter
Vital Farms isn’t just butter—it’s a movement. Made from pasture-raised cows on family-owned farms, it boasts an 85% butterfat content, making it incredibly rich and smooth. The slightly sweet flavor enhances everything from baked goods to breakfast dishes. If you care about quality and ethics, this is the butter for you.
4. Bordier Butter (Le Beurre Bordier)
Bordier Butter isn’t just an ingredient—it’s an event. Handmade in Brittany, France, it’s known for its velvety texture and bold flavors like seaweed or smoked salt. Used by top chefs, this butter proves that dairy can be a luxury. If you want to elevate your meal, Bordier is the way to go.
5.Plugrá European Style Unsalted Butter
Serious bakers know Plugrá is the key to perfection. With extra butterfat and less moisture, it creates the flakiest croissants and the softest cookies. Unlike standard butters, Plugrá is designed for baking, giving you pro-level results every time. If pastries are your passion, this butter is a must-have.
6. Vermont Creamery Sea Salt & Maple Butter
Vermont Creamery takes butter to the next level with a blend of sea salt and maple syrup. The result? A deeply flavorful, slightly sweet butter that’s perfect for artisanal bread or morning waffles. By combining tradition with innovation, this brand proves butter can be as creative as any gourmet dish.
7. Miyoko’s Creamery Cultured Vegan Butter
Think vegan butter can’t taste real? Think again. Miyoko’s Creamery uses cashews and coconut oil to mimic dairy butter’s creamy richness. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or baking cookies, this plant-based alternative proves that going vegan doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture.
8. Meyenberg Goat Milk Butter
Cow milk isn’t the only option—Meyenberg Goat Milk Butter delivers a tangy twist on tradition. Its creamy texture and slightly earthy taste make it a standout choice for gourmet cooking. Whether you have dairy sensitivities or just want to try something new, this butter challenges the norm in the best way.
9. Fourth & Heart Ghee
Ghee isn’t just butter—it’s tradition. Fourth & Heart’s clarified butter has a deep, nutty flavor and a high smoke point, making it perfect for frying and roasting. Lactose-free and packed with rich, buttery goodness, ghee is an ancient staple that’s making a big comeback in modern kitchens.
The Health-Conscious Choice: Why Ghee Might Be Better Than Butter
For those looking to ditch traditional butter, ghee offers a compelling alternative. Free of lactose and casein, it’s easier to digest while maintaining a deep, buttery taste. With a high smoke point, it’s perfect for high-heat cooking. This ancient staple is making a modern comeback, challenging the idea that butter is the only option.
Beyond the Basics: How to Elevate Your Butter Game
Why stop at just picking a great butter? Try compound butters by mixing in herbs, honey, or roasted garlic for a flavor boost. Experiment with browning butter for a rich, nutty taste. And don’t forget—proper storage keeps butter at its best. Whether melted, whipped, or infused, butter is more versatile than you think!
The Ultimate Butter Decision: Which One Is for You?
With so many choices, the perfect butter depends on what you’re looking for. Whether it’s rich European-style, budget-friendly reliability, or plant-based innovation, there’s a standout option for every kitchen. These top picks prove that great butter comes in many forms—now, it’s just a matter of what suits your taste best!
Sources:
The Very Best Butter Brands According to Our Test Kitchen Experts
The 12 Best Butter Brands for Every Use