You would think that butter is butter is butter. You’d be wrong! And that leads us to the question of why is Kerrygold butter often considered to be some of the best butter around. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that it is an Irish butter, which makes it a creamier, sweeter butter all around.
While it may not seem like a big difference, American butter typically only offers us 80 percent butterfat, while Irish butter gives us an 82 percent butterfat. However the big difference between an American butter and an Irish butter is the fact that American butter often has a higher water content, which combined with that slightly less butterfat, makes it a less flavorful option in comparison.
When it comes to Kerrygold butter, which has been around since 1962, there is something to be said for a brand that chooses not to be sold in bulk via wholesale. This means that whether you are a professional baker, a professional chef, an at-home baker, or something else we all get our Kerrygold butter the same way. It’s all about picking up as many 8 ounce blocks of butter as needed.
It also means that there seems to be a bit more precision when it comes to using this butter. It means that people go out of their way to use this particular style of butter with intention.
Why do we love Kerrygold?
So why is any of that important? Well, it’s not. It just means that we know good butter when we see it or taste it. It also means that you are less likely to get Irish butter just anywhere.
We know that Kerrygold is made from grass fed cow’s milk which has been perfectly churned every time. No matter what time of year it seems like this butter is always flavorful and even a little colorful (Irish butter often has a very distinctive golden yellow color). When it comes to Kerrygold products we expect the best and we are rarely disappointed.
One of the latest innovations from the company is their Irish butter made with olive oil. And it is just as delicious as their classic Irish butter. It continues the trend of living up to the hype. And yes, it is just as good for cooking as it is baking. Even if you have no intention of cooking, it is still a perfect addition to just simple buttered bread or toast.
I used a tub of the Kerrygold with Olive Oil to cook up some sauces, as a spread on crackers (Saltines and butter are a classic), and of course on toasted rolls. And every single time it was like there was just a little bit of magic with each bite. (I don’t ask questions, I just enjoy how the taste buds are singing.)
Obviously classic Irish butter and the other unique flavors they offer are not the only things that Kerrygold is known for. They also have some of the best cheese in their product line. (Personally, I have only tried two of their cheddar flavors, but they have more to offer than just cheddar.)
In fact, their cheddars might even give Wisconsin a run for their money. If you have never tried Kerrygold cheddar you need to do that at least once, but be prepared for a sharp cheddar perfect for a Mac and Cheese roux, as well as a Charcuterie Board of savory morsels. While I am more of a butter fan when it comes to Kerrygold products, their cheese could potentially convert you if you have long considered yourself more of a Wisconsin cheese lover. Stranger things have happened.
While I can admit that some of their cheddar is exceedingly sharp (it’s not a bad thing!), it is still perfect for cheese and crackers, making a four cheese Mac and Cheese, or even just snacking in general. Kerrygold knows how to make cheese and butter and that is all there is to it.
When it comes to Irish butter, Kerrygold is our go-to butter of choice and we wouldn’t have it any other way. In fact, with Easter coming up, we have some plans to bake up some sweet treats and we can’t wait to break out the Irish butter for a little extra creamy magic.
Are you a fan of Irish Butter versus American Butter? Which brand of butter is your favorite? Tell us in the comments below.