The Ultimate Guide to Supermarket Butters: Taste-Tested Picks for Every Budget
As the cost of butter has surged by approximately 19 per cent over the past year, discerning which brands deliver exceptional value and flavour has become increasingly crucial. With most blocks now priced just shy of £3, finding a quality butter under £2 is a rare occurrence. This comprehensive guide, based on rigorous taste-testing by a seasoned food writer, evaluates 13 standout supermarket butters, catering to everyday needs and indulgent moments alike.
Butter has reclaimed its status as a kitchen essential, with Waitrose reporting a 16 per cent increase in sales of its Essentials salted butter compared to last year. Additionally, flavoured butter sales have risen by 24 per cent in the UK over the past 12 months, reflecting a growing appreciation for this versatile dairy product. Once criticised for its saturated fat content, butter is now recognised as a component of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Our Top Picks: Detailed Reviews
1. Sainsbury's Taste the Difference West Country Farmhouse Butter – Best supermarket butter overall. Hailing from Somerset, this bright yellow butter features Maldon sea salt flakes, offering a rich, savoury tang and a creamy, whipped-like texture. Priced at £3 for 250g, it exemplifies premium quality without excessive greasiness.
2. Kerrygold Pure Irish Salted Butter – Best creamy supermarket butter. Made from the milk of grass-fed cows in Ireland, this butter boasts a velvety, creamy texture and a balanced saltiness. Its 200g block, at £3, is slightly smaller but delivers an irresistible flavour profile.
3. Trewithen Salted Butter – Best locally-produced butter. Originating from Cornwall, this award-winning butter is gently salted with a complex, tangy flavour. It is often reduced in price, making it an affordable luxury at £3 for 250g.
4. Anchor Salted Butter – Best spreadable supermarket butter. A classic since 1886, this Wiltshire-produced butter is double-churned for creaminess and ease of spreading. At £3 for 200g, it remains a reliable, farmer-owned choice.
5. Yeo Valley Organic Salted Butter – Best ethical supermarket butter. Organic and ethically produced in Somerset, this butter features high animal welfare standards and a creamy, well-salted taste. Priced just over £3 for 200g, it represents excellent value for an organic option.
6. Sainsbury's British Butter – Best everyday supermarket butter. At £2 for 250g, this is one of the cheapest options, offering a mild, pale flavour ideal for sandwiches and baking.
7. Waitrose No.1 French Butter with Sea Salt Crystals – Best French supermarket butter. Made in Brittany with a higher butterfat content, this butter delivers a tangy, creamy experience. Priced at £4 for 250g, it is a luxurious treat for slow mornings.
8. Waitrose Duchy Organic English Salted Butter – Best subtly salted supermarket butter. Organic and supporting charitable causes, this Cornish butter is lightly salted but comes at a premium of £4 for 250g.
9. Sainsbury's Slightly Salted So Organic Butter – Best slightly salted organic supermarket butter. Soil Association certified, this butter offers a delicate, slightly sweet taste with minimal salt. At £3 for 250g, it suits those preferring lighter salting.
10. M&S British Salted Butter – Best cheap supermarket butter. Priced at £2 for 250g, this affordable option provides a balanced, creamy flavour perfect for daily use.
11. Tesco Finest Butter with Sea Salt Crystals – Best butter with chunky salt. Made in the West Country, this butter features noticeable salt crystals for a zesty kick, priced at £3 for 250g.
12. M&S Cornish Gold Butter with Sea Salt – Best luxurious supermarket butter. Produced by Rodda's in Cornwall, this ultra-creamy butter includes Cornish sea salt and a bright yellow hue. At £4 for 250g, it is an indulgent choice.
13. M&S Salted Jersey Butter – Best Jersey supermarket butter. Made on Jersey with creamy milk, this butter has a complex, tangy flavour and generous salting, priced at £3 for 250g.
Testing Methodology and Trustworthiness
The taste-testing process involved evaluating 16 salted butters over several days, using consistent multiseed bread for slathering. Criteria included taste, creaminess, texture, and value for money. The reviewer, Emma Henderson, is a former editor of IndyEats and a Guild of Food Writers Awards nominee, ensuring expert, reliable insights.
In summary, whether you seek an everyday staple or a luxurious splurge, this guide highlights the best supermarket butters to enhance your meals. As butter continues to play a pivotal role in culinary traditions, making informed choices can elevate simple dishes and provide excellent value amidst rising costs.
