How to Make Makhan or Butter at Home | Health Benefits

Making butter at home is a rewarding and surprisingly simple process that brings the rich, creamy taste of fresh out from your kitchen. In India, homemade butter, often called “makhan,” is a staple in many households, cherished for its purity and flavour.

This blog will walk you through an easy recipe to make butter at home, share its benefits, offer tips for the best results, and suggest nutritious breakfast options using butter for kids and office-goers. Let’s dive in!

Why Make Butter at Home?

Making butter at home is free from preservatives, artificial flavors, and additives found in many store-bought versions. It’s a wholesome, natural product that you can customize to your taste—whether you prefer salted, unsalted, or flavored butter. Plus, making butter at home is cost-effective, especially in India, where cream or malai is readily available from daily milk. The process is also fun and a great activity to involve kids in the kitchen!

7 Benefits of Homemade Butter

1. Rich in Nutrients: Butter contains healthy fats, vitamins A, D, E, and K, and essential fatty acids that support brain function and skin health.
2. Pure and Natural: You control the ingredients, ensuring no chemicals or preservatives.
3. Supports Digestion: When consumed in moderation, butter aids digestion due to its butyrate content.
4. Versatile: Use it in cooking, baking, or as a spread for a burst of flavor.
5. Glowing Skin: Consuming healthy amounts of butter can prove extremely helpful in fighting conditions like acne, aging, breakouts, and rashes.
6. Energy Booster: Butter provides quick energy, making it ideal for breakfast for kids and busy professionals.
7. Healthy Fats: It contains healthy saturated fats, which can help absorb fat-soluble vitamins and provide a good source of energy. 

Easy Indian Recipe to Make Butter at Home

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making pure butter using malai (cream) collected from milk, a common practice in Indian households.

Ingredients

– 2 cups of fresh malai (cream collected from boiled milk) or heavy cream

– A pinch of salt (optional, for salted butter)

– Ice-cold water (for washing the butter)

– Optional: Herbs, garlic, or spices for flavored butter

Equipment

– A blender, food processor, or hand mixer

– A bowl

– A muslin cloth or fine sieve

– A spatula

Instructions (How to make butter at home?)

1. Collect Malai: If using milk, boil it daily and let it cool. Skim off the malai (cream) that forms on top and store it in a container in the refrigerator. Collect malai for 3–5 days until you have enough (about 2 cups).
2. Churn the Malai: Transfer the chilled malai to a blender or food processor. Blend on medium speed for 5–10 minutes. You’ll notice the cream thickening into whipped cream before separating into butter and buttermilk.
3. Separate the Butter: Once the butter forms (you’ll see yellow clumps), stop blending. Pour the mixture into a bowl and use a spatula to gather the butter solids.
4. Wash the Butter: Add ice-cold water to the butter and knead it gently. The cold water removes excess buttermilk, making the butter last longer. Drain the cloudy water and repeat 2–3 times until the water runs clear.
5. Season (Optional): Add a pinch of salt for salted butter or mix in herbs like cilantro, garlic, or chili powder for flavored butter.
6. Store: Shape the butter into a ball or block, wrap it in parchment paper, or store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Yield

2 cups of malai typically yield about ¾ to 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of buttermilk (use the buttermilk for pancakes or curries!).

Tips and Tricks for the Best Homemade Butter

– Use Fresh Malai: Fresh cream gives the best flavour and texture. Avoid using malai that’s too old or sour.

– Keep It Cold: Chilling the malai and using ice-cold water prevents the butter from melting during churning.

– Don’t Over blend: Stop blending once the butter separates to avoid a greasy texture.

– Experiment with Flavours: Add roasted garlic, herbs, or even honey for unique spreads.

– Store Properly: Always store butter in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.

– Use Quality Milk: Full-fat milk yields richer malai, resulting in creamier butter.

Nutritious Breakfast Options with Homemade Butter

Butter is a versatile ingredient that can elevate breakfast, making it both delicious and nutritious. Here are some healthy breakfast ideas for kids and office-goers that incorporate homemade butter:

Healthy Breakfast Recipes for Kids

1. Butter Toast with Fruit: Spread homemade butter on whole-grain toast and top with sliced bananas or strawberries. The butter adds healthy fats, while fruits provide vitamins and fiber. Pair with a glass of milk for a balanced meal.
2. Paratha with Butter: Roll out a small whole-wheat paratha, cook it with a dab of butter, and serve with a side of yogurt or a boiled egg. The butter enhances flavor, and the paratha provides carbs for energy.
3. Butter and Jam Sandwich: Spread butter and a thin layer of natural fruit jam on whole-grain bread. This quick, kid-friendly option is perfect for busy mornings.

Healthy Breakfast Recipes for Office-Goers

1. Butter Avocado Toast: Mash half an avocado, spread it on toasted sourdough, and top with a thin layer of homemade butter for extra richness. Sprinkle with chia seeds or chili flakes for a nutrient-packed, filling breakfast.
2. Butter Veggie Omelette: Whisk 2 eggs with chopped veggies (spinach, tomatoes, onions) and cook with a small dollop of butter. Serve with a slice of whole-grain toast for a protein-rich meal that keeps you full until lunch.
3. Butter-Drizzled Poha: Prepare poha (flattened rice) with veggies and spices, and finish with a teaspoon of melted butter for a flavorful, light breakfast that’s quick to make.

These breakfasts are nutritious, quick, and incorporate butter in moderation to provide energy and flavor without being heavy.

Wrapping Up

Making butter at home is a simple, cost-effective way to enjoy pure, delicious makhan that’s free from additives. With just a few steps, you can create a versatile ingredient that elevates your meals and provides nutritional benefits.

From spreading it on toast to cooking flavorful parathas, homemade butter is a kitchen staple that kids and adults love. By mastering this skill, you’re taking a step toward wholesome, mindful cooking.

Want to learn more culinary techniques and elevate your kitchen game? Join NFCI’s culinary courses to equip yourself with essential skills for life! For more recipes, tips, and food inspiration, check out our other blogs at www.nfcihospitality.com . Start your food journey today!