Looking for a way to elevate your meals with minimal effort? This Lemon Compound Butter is a game changer, adding a burst of citrus and spice to any dish.

I love butter. I use it in everything, and it makes ordinary dishes taste so much better.
But I really love compound lemon butter.
There is something about butter that has melded with other spices and flavors that makes it just that much extra.
Is it extra? Yes. But when I’m eating it I don’t even care. It’s fancy. It’s over the top. And I love it!
Combining the creamy richness of butter with the bright, tangy flavors of lemon and spices, this lemon butter transforms everyday meals into gourmet experiences.

What is Compound Butter?
Compound butter is a mixture of regular butter and various flavorings, such as herbs, spices, and citrus.
It’s used to enhance the flavor of dishes or as a spread.
Compound butters can be used in cooking or served as a condiment, providing a quick and flavorful upgrade to your meals.
What Ingredients Are in Lemon Compound Butter?
- Unsalted Butter: A stick of unsalted butter is the base for the compound butter, providing a creamy texture and allowing the flavors to meld.
- Whole Cumin Seeds: Adds a warm, earthy flavor with a hint of citrus.
- Whole Coriander Seeds: Provides a slightly sweet and citrusy note that complements the lemon zest.
- Fine Lemon Zest: Delivers a bright, tangy flavor and aroma, enhancing the overall freshness of the butter.
Pro Tip: Make sure you are using room temperature butter for easy mixing. It should be soft but not melted so you can easily incorporate the lemon zest and ground seeds.

How to Make Lemon Compound Butter:
- Let the butter soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
- Grind the cumin and coriander seeds to a coarse texture using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the softened butter, ground spices, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
- Mix well with a fork until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the butter into a log shape using a piece of parchment paper.
- Roll it up tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
Pro Tip: Adjust the amount of lemon zest according to your taste preference. More zest will increase the citrus flavor in your lemon cumin butter while less will let the cumin and coriander shine through.

Can I Use Ground Cumin and Coriander?
While you can use ground cumin and coriander, it won’t have as strong of a flavor.
Using whole seeds and grinding them yourself will provide a more robust flavor.
Whole seeds retain their essential oils and flavors better than pre-ground spices, giving you lemon coriander butter with more flavor and shine.
Can I Make Lemon Compound Butter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this lemon zest butter recipe ahead of time.
It’s perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Just keep it well-wrapped with a piece of plastic wrap and an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odors.

How Long Does Lemon Compound Butter Last?
Lemon Butter will last for up to one week when stored properly in the refrigerator.
It’s important to keep it wrapped well to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
How to Store Lemon Compound Butter:
Store the compound butter with lemon and coriander in an airtight container tightly wrapped in parchment paper and plastic wrap.
This will keep it fresh and help it retain its flavor and texture.

Can I Freeze Lemon Compound Butter?
Yes, you can freeze Lemon Butter.
Wrap it tightly in parchment paper and place it in a paper towel tube to keep it’s round shape.
Then place it in a freezer zipper bag in the freezer.
It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
What to Serve Lemon Compound Butter On:
Lemon Compound Butter can be served on top of grilled steaks, chicken, or fish for a zesty finish.
It’s also delicious spread on fresh bread or dinner rolls, melted over vegetables like green beans, or incorporated into sauces and dressings.
Try lemon pressed butter on top of these recipes:
- Braided Bread Recipe
- Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Butter Fried Steaks
- Pan Fried Asparagus
- Lemon Smashed Potatoes Recipe
- Easy Dinner Rolls
- Old Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits
- Biscuit Bread
- Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Recipe
- Easy French Bread Recipe

What to Serve with Lemon Compound Butter:
Serve this lemon butter with a variety of dishes, including baked potato or pasta.
It can also complement a cheese platter or charcuterie board, adding a flavorful twist to your appetizers.
Try some of these recipes with your homemade lemon butter:
- Brown Butter Croutons
- Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
- Simple Buttered Rice Recipe
- Potato Gratin Stacks
- Roasted Winter Vegetables
Is Lemon Compound Butter Healthy?
While Lemon Compound Butter is rich in flavor, it is butter.
And butter is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The lemon zest and spices add flavor without additional calories or significant health concerns.

Whether you are looking for an easy way to make homemade bread a little extra or you want something special on a holiday table spread, this Lemon Compound Butter is one of my favorite combinations.
Full of flavor and perfect with all your savory dishes, this recipe makes a stick of butter extra special.
Lemon Compound Butter

Elevate your meals with this zesty Lemon Compound Butter, combining creamy butter with tangy lemon and aromatic spices for a flavorful boost!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let butter soften on counter for at least 30 minutes.
- Grind cumin and coriander in a mortar and pestle. Stop at a coarse grind. Some texture is nice.
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix well with a fork.
- Using a silicone spatula, spoon butter onto a piece of parchment paper.
- Shape it into a log form.
- Roll it up in the parchment.
- Refrigerate one hour before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
8Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 103Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 2mgCarbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 0g