Birds chirping, grass turning green, people gathering outside, moods seem to be rising … all signs mean it’s spring! Yeah, and let’s not ignore one of the most visible signs … a lovely yellow dandelion field in the lawn. A dandelion field is no cover. They’re easy to spot, and can be found everywhere.
Some people see the brightly-colored blossom as a plant, while others consider it a jewel with so many possibilities. It doesn’t even need back-breaking labor that comes with most landscaping, because each year nature does all the work for you by planting and spreading dandelions.
One benefit of having an abundance of dandelions at your disposal is that in a very short time you can have a delicious dandelion honey butter. The yellow blossom gives a rich and sweet taste to the butter. So, for your morning bagel, afternoon muffin or some cornbread with dinner, this is a special addition to a simple butter spread. And, it takes only 3 ingredients: butter, honey, and dandelion blossoms.
In addition to dandelion honey butter, there are many other great uses for dandelions. They are used by people to make other edibles like cakes, cookies, pasta and wines. And, there are several non-edibles that benefit from the added greens and blossoms. It also enriches items such as soaps, lotions, and infused oils with dandelion blossoms and greens.
Even if you have none on your own yard, you probably don’t have to wander too far to find everything you need. And, because many people still see them as weeds, they would probably not mind if you took some off of their hands.
Why Add Dandelions to Edible Treats?
Great question! It’s not just a gimmick, or to add an extra step into your food prep. Here are a few reasons to give incentive…
Extra Nutrition – For such a little plant, dandelions are loaded with vitamins and minerals such as A, B1, B2, B6, E, K, calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
Convenience – It can’t get more convenient than dandelions, because it plants itself, probably right out your door.
A Storable Plant – Since they aren’t available in colder climates, it is nice that in the winter months they are so easy to store for use. In a honey jar simply add the yellow blossoms. There are 2 of the ingredients all ready to go for honey butter recipe below for the dandelion blossom. I hope it can get more convenient!
Durable and Reliable – Just ask someone who can’t seem to get rid of them…they are abundant and quite stubborn when you don’t want them around.
So, why not reach out into your backyard to add flavor and nutrients to an edible treat or meal?
Collecting the Dandelions
Before you go out to pick dandelions, be sure that they have not been sprayed with a pesticide or weed killer before using them for any digestible or even topical item. It would be dangerous even to wash them before use, if they were sprayed.
Bees also love dandelions, and rely on them to pollinate. Gather what you need, but leave the rest. Luckily you don’t need too many to make honey butter from the dandelion blossom.
You’ll only need about a quarter cup of bloom for one pot, omitting the greens and stems. You should leave the stem in the dirt, then only pop off the head of the blossom. Shake off any dirt or debris, before putting them in a cup.
You may also take the greens if you want to use more of the plant to make a dandelion salad or a yummy pesto. Only bear in mind the yellow blooms are sweet while the rest of the plant is bitter.
Related: How to Make Dandelion Bread (Recipe Inside)
Making the Sweet Buttery Topping
For one batch, you will need the following:
- ¼ dandelion blossoms (just the yellow petals)
- ¼ butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 Tablespoons honey
The yellow blossoms, unlike the stems and leaves, have a sweet and delicate flavor and add to the spread some culinary depth and nutrients. The simple instructions below will give you a tasty break from the bland butter found in shops. You can even make your own butter while you are at it! But, that is a separate story. For now, here is what you have to do:
1. Remove the yellow blossoms from the greens, measuring ¼ cup.
2. Add the honey to the softened butter
3. Mix the butter and honey, whipping until well blended
4. Add the blossoms.
5. Stir until well blended (can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 months)
6. And last, enjoy!
