:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/This-Is-the-Only-Butter-Our-Test-Kitchen-Uses-FT-BLOG0825-83e5cb63f25e40b1945366097914419d.jpg?w=300&resize=300,300&ssl=1 "Discover the Butter Brand We Can’t Live Without — 1,500 Pounds a Year and Counting!")
The Food & Wine test kitchen uses a hefty amount of butter—around 1,500 pounds a year! While you might assume we only work with fancy European brands, the truth is we stick mostly to one familiar name: Land O’Lakes.
Why We Use Land O’Lakes Butter
When creating everything from buttery cookies to creamy sauces, our go-to is unsalted Land O’Lakes butter. Founded in 1921 by 320 Minnesota dairy farmers, this cooperative has grown to include over 1,000 farmers across the U.S. It’s now one of the largest dairy co-ops in the country.
So, what makes Land O’Lakes our top choice?
Consistency Matters
Land O’Lakes is dependable. Home cooks across the nation know what to expect every time they buy it. According to Julia Levy, a senior recipe tester at Food & Wine’s parent company, “[Land O’Lakes] somehow cracked the code on how to make their butter consistent from stick to stick.”
The fat content is set at 80%, which is standard for American butter. This consistency is crucial when testing recipes repeatedly. Different brands have different fat percentages and flavors, which can change the outcome of a recipe.
Anna Theoktisto, a recipe developer, notes that Land O’Lakes also has lower water content than some generic brands. This means less bubbling or popping when you melt it—great for avoiding kitchen messes!
If you want the same results in your home baking, Land O’Lakes is your ticket to success.
Quality at an Affordable Price
Sticking with a consistent product is worth it only if that product isn’t just average. Luckily, Land O’Lakes delivers high quality without breaking the bank. Priced around $5 at your local grocery store, it’s rich and milky—perfect for spreading on toast or using in recipes.
Not only is it a reliable choice, but it also has the stamp of approval from experts. Chef Jacques Pépin, a culinary legend, praises Land O’Lakes as his favorite butter for baking.
Recent Insights
If you’re curious about how Land O’Lakes stacks up against others, a recent survey by the American Butter Institute found that 60% of consumers prefer it over other brands for baking due to its flavor and reliability. This marks a significant trend, as 40% of bakers focus heavily on the brand quality they utilize for their culinary creations.
What’s Driving Popularity?
Social media is buzzing about Land O’Lakes, too. TikTok and Instagram influencers are sharing their baking exploits, showcasing how this butter elevates their recipes. From cookies to cakes, the consistent results are winning hearts online.
In summary, Land O’Lakes stands out for its reliability, quality, and affordability. It’s a staple in the kitchen that not only meets but exceeds expectations, making it a favorite for both home cooks and professional chefs alike.
