Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes — use a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend.

Do these freeze well?

Yes — freeze after cooling and thaw in the refrigerator.

You can reduce the brown sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes — thighs stay juicier and add richer flavor.

Can I grill the chicken?

Absolutely. Grilling adds smoky Mediterranean flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes — skip feta and tzatziki or use dairy-free versions.

Can I substitute the rice?

Yes — quinoa, orzo, couscous, or mixed greens all work well.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes — store ingredients separately and assemble when serving.

Is blackened tuna spicy?

It has a mild-to-moderate heat. Reduce the cayenne pepper or jalapeño for a milder version.

Can I grill the tuna instead?

Yes. Grill over high heat for the same amount of time, making sure the grates are well-oiled.

What type of tuna should I use?

Ahi (yellowfin) or sushi-grade tuna works best for searing.

Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes. The mango salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Dirty rice has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun dirty rice ahead of time?

Yes. Store dirty rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze Cajun dirty rice?

Yes. Cajun dirty rice freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

What meat can I substitute for beef?

Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.

Is Cajun cornbread spicy?

Cajun cornbread has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by reducing the jalapeño or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun cornbread ahead of time?

Yes. Cajun cornbread can be baked up to one day ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Can I freeze Cajun cornbread?

Yes. Wrap the cornbread tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make Cajun cornbread without cheese?

Yes. You can omit the cheese for a dairy-light version without affecting the texture.

Gumbo is mildly spicy. You can adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning.

Can I make chicken and sausage gumbo ahead of time?

Yes. Gumbo tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze chicken and sausage gumbo?

Yes. Gumbo freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Do I have to use okra in gumbo?

No. Okra helps thicken gumbo, but you can omit it or use filé powder if preferred.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes spicy?

They have a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning.

Can I make Cajun roasted potatoes ahead of time?

They are best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.

Can I use red or russet potatoes?

Yes. Just cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure even roasting.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes vegan?

Yes. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and vegan as written.

Is Cajun shrimp & grits spicy?

Cajun shrimp and grits has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can reduce the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to make it milder.

Can I make Cajun shrimp and grits ahead of time?

The shrimp are best cooked fresh, but the grits can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Can I use instant grits?

Yes, but stone-ground grits provide the best flavor and creamiest texture.

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Yes, whole milk can be used, though the grits will be slightly less rich.

Maple Bourbon Butter (Rich, Warm & Perfect for Fall)

Sarah Smith
Nov 18, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Dec 23, 2025

Creamy butter swirled in a bowl, topped with pecans and syrup. Pancakes in the background. Bottle labeled "Maple Leaf Bourbon."

This Maple Bourbon Butter is silky, sweet, and full of warm, deep flavor from maple syrup and a splash of bourbon. It’s incredible on fluffy pancakes, Classic French Toast, or Classic Sweet Potato Casserole.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 5 minutes Servings: 8

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon bourbon (or ¼ teaspoon extract)
½ teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch salt

Instructions

1. Whip the butter

Beat softened butter until light and creamy.

2. Add remaining ingredients

Add maple syrup, bourbon, cinnamon, and salt.

3. Whip until smooth

Beat 1–2 minutes until airy and evenly mixed.

4. Shape & chill

Chill in a jar or an airtight container for 10 days.

Pair with cozy brunch dishes or alongside warm fall baked goods like Best Banana Bread.

FAQ

Q: What type of bourbon works best in maple bourbon butter?

A: Any smooth, mid-range bourbon works beautifully. You don’t need anything fancy—pick a bourbon you enjoy drinking because the flavor comes through in the butter.

Q: Can I make this butter without alcohol?

A: Yes! Replace the bourbon with a splash of vanilla extract or extra maple syrup. You’ll still get a cozy, sweet flavor without the alcohol.

Q: Do I need to cook the bourbon before mixing it in?

A: Not at all. The small amount used blends right into the softened butter. If you want a milder bourbon flavor, simmer it for 1–2 minutes to cook off some of the alcohol.

Q: Why is my butter separating or looking oily?

A: The butter may be too warm. After mixing, place the butter in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes—it will firm up and become smooth and spreadable.

Q: How long does maple bourbon butter last?

A: It keeps up to 1 week in the refrigerator and freezes well for 2–3 months. Store tightly wrapped or in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use maple-flavored syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

A: Pure maple syrup gives the best flavor and consistency. Pancake syrup works, but the flavor will be sweeter and less rich.

Q: Can I turn this into whipped butter?

A: Absolutely! Beat the softened butter with a mixer for 2–3 minutes before adding the maple and bourbon. It becomes lighter, fluffier, and easier to spread.

Final Thoughts

Maple Bourbon Butter is the ultimate cozy upgrade — rich, smooth, and layered with warm, fall-inspired flavor. The sweetness of maple syrup pairs beautifully with the subtle depth of bourbon, creating a spread that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether melted over pancakes, slathered on warm biscuits, or served alongside roasted vegetables and meats, this butter adds a touch of seasonal magic to every bite. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big flavor and feels right at home all autumn long.