Delia Smith Brandy Butter Recipe is a classic British accompaniment made from butter, icing sugar, and brandy. The texture should be smooth and creamy, while the brandy gives it a warm, rich flavour.
Ingredients
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 100g icing sugar, sifted
- 2–3 tablespoons brandy
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
How to Make Delia Smith Brandy Butter
Step 1
Put the softened butter into a mixing bowl and beat it until completely smooth and pale. Take your time here; cold or lumpy butter will make the finished mixture uneven.
Step 2
Gradually beat in the sifted icing sugar. Add it in two or three additions. Continue mixing until the butter and sugar form a light, creamy mixture with no visible lumps.
Step 3
Add the brandy a little at a time, beating after each addition. Taste as you go and stop once the flavour has the right balance of sweetness and brandy. If using vanilla, mix it in at the end.
Spoon the brandy butter into a serving bowl and chill until firm. Let it stand at room temperature for around 10–15 minutes before serving so it becomes easy to spoon.
What to Serve With Delia Smith Brandy Butter
Brandy butter is traditionally served with hot Christmas desserts. It is particularly good with Christmas pudding, mince pies, Christmas cake, steamed sponge puddings, and warm fruit pies.
For the best contrast, serve a small spoonful alongside a hot dessert. The warmth of the pudding softens the butter, creating a rich sauce as you eat.
Delia Smith Brandy Butter Nutrition Information
Approximate nutrition per 25g serving:
- Calories: 135 kcal
- Fat: 9.5g
- Saturated fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sugars: 11g
- Protein: 0.1g
- Salt: 0.05g
Values vary depending on the exact butter, sugar, and amount of brandy used.
FAQs
Can I make brandy butter ahead of time?
Yes. Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to several days. Take it out shortly before serving so the butter softens.
Why is my brandy butter too soft?
Too much brandy can loosen the mixture. Chill it for a while before serving. If it remains very soft, beat in a little more sifted icing sugar.
Can I use salted butter?
You can, but unsalted butter gives you better control over the flavour. Brandy butter is rich enough without needing extra salt.
Can I freeze brandy butter?
Yes. Wrap it tightly or place it in an airtight container and freeze it for up to a few months. Thaw it in the refrigerator, then allow it to soften before serving.
How much brandy should I use?
Start with two tablespoons and taste the mixture. Add more gradually if you want a stronger brandy flavour. Avoid adding too much at once because the mixture can become loose.