Delicious and Budget-Friendly: Recipes Using a Costco Kerrygold Butter Knock-Off
Costco, the land of bulk buys and incredible deals, has become a staple for many families. Among their treasures lies a high-quality butter that rivals the famous Kerrygold Irish Butter in both taste and performance, often at a more accessible price point. While Kirkland Signature butter may not explicitly market itself as a “Kerrygold knock-off,” savvy shoppers have noticed the similarities in its rich flavor profile and high butterfat content, both characteristics indicative of grass-fed cows. This makes it a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative for all your baking and cooking needs. This article explores a variety of delicious recipes where you can seamlessly substitute Costco’s butter for Kerrygold, achieving comparable results without breaking the bank.
## Understanding the Appeal of Irish-Style Butter
Before diving into recipes, it’s important to understand what makes Kerrygold and its counterparts so special. The key lies in the cows’ diet. Irish butter, and high-quality butters inspired by it, are typically made from the milk of cows that graze on lush, green pastures. This grass-fed diet results in milk with a higher concentration of beta-carotene, which contributes to the butter’s characteristic golden color and richer flavor. Additionally, the butterfat content is generally higher (around 82% or more), leading to a creamier texture and superior performance in baking.
Costco’s Kirkland Signature butter often boasts similar qualities, making it an excellent substitute. Always check the packaging for information about butterfat content, and you’ll likely find it comparable to Kerrygold.
## Baking with Costco Butter: Unleashing Culinary Magic
The higher butterfat content and rich flavor of Irish-style butter, or its Costco equivalent, can significantly enhance your baking. Here are some recipes where this substitution shines:
### 1. Flaky Pie Crust
A truly exceptional pie crust hinges on the quality of the butter. The high fat content creates steam pockets as the crust bakes, resulting in a light, flaky texture. Using Costco butter, you can achieve pie crust perfection:
**Ingredients:**
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) Costco Kirkland Signature butter, very cold and cut into small cubes
* 6-8 tablespoons ice water
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine dry ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. **Incorporate butter:** Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips (work quickly to keep the butter cold!), cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. These pieces are crucial for flakiness.
3. **Add ice water:** Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Form and chill:** Gently form the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up.
5. **Roll out and bake:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Transfer it to your pie plate, crimp the edges, and bake according to your pie filling recipe. For a pre-baked crust, prick the bottom with a fork, line with parchment paper and pie weights (or dried beans), and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
**Tips for Success:**
* **Keep everything cold:** Cold butter is key to a flaky crust. Use ice water and work in a cool environment.
* **Don’t overmix:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust.
* **Chill the dough:** Chilling allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, making the dough easier to handle.
### 2. Buttery Shortbread Cookies
Shortbread, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, is the perfect canvas to showcase the rich flavor of Costco butter. The high butterfat content creates a crumbly, tender cookie that is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) Costco Kirkland Signature butter, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream butter and sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie.
2. **Add salt:** Mix in the salt.
3. **Gradually add flour:** Gradually add the flour, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Shape and chill:** Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
5. **Roll and cut:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
6. **Bake:** Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Variations:**
* **Add vanilla extract:** For a hint of vanilla flavor, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar.
* **Sprinkle with sugar:** Before baking, sprinkle the cookies with granulated sugar or sanding sugar for a sparkly finish.
* **Dip in chocolate:** Once cooled, dip the cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped nuts or sprinkles.
### 3. Luscious Buttercream Frosting
A truly decadent buttercream frosting starts with high-quality butter. Costco butter provides the richness and creaminess needed to create a frosting that is both flavorful and stable.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) Costco Kirkland Signature butter, softened
* 3-4 cups powdered sugar
* 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream butter:** In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. This is essential for creating a smooth and creamy frosting.
2. **Gradually add powdered sugar:** Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Alternate adding powdered sugar with milk or heavy cream to prevent the frosting from becoming too dry.
3. **Add vanilla extract and salt:** Mix in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. **Whip until smooth:** Increase the speed to medium and whip the frosting for 2-3 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Add more milk or heavy cream if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
**Tips for Success:**
* **Use softened butter:** Softened butter is crucial for a smooth and creamy frosting. Make sure the butter is at room temperature but not melted.
* **Sift powdered sugar:** Sifting the powdered sugar will help prevent lumps in the frosting.
* **Adjust consistency:** Adjust the amount of milk or heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency. For a thinner frosting, add more liquid. For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar.
### 4. Perfect Pound Cake
Pound cake gets its name from the equal weights of its key ingredients: butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Using Costco butter elevates this classic cake to new heights of flavor and richness.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) Costco Kirkland Signature butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 4 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. **Cream butter and sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add eggs:** Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine dry ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, salt, and flour.
5. **Gradually add dry ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Pour into pan:** Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
### 5. Decadent Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your classic chocolate chip cookies with the rich flavor of Costco butter. The higher butterfat content contributes to a chewier texture and a more intense buttery flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) Costco Kirkland Signature butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 cups chocolate chips
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Cream butter and sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add eggs and vanilla:** Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine dry ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour.
5. **Gradually add dry ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Stir in chocolate chips:** Stir in the chocolate chips.
7. **Drop by spoonfuls:** Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
## Cooking with Costco Butter: Savory Delights Await
Beyond baking, Costco butter adds depth and richness to savory dishes. Here are some ways to incorporate it into your everyday cooking:
### 1. Sautéed Vegetables
A simple pat of Costco butter can transform ordinary sautéed vegetables into a flavorful side dish. The butter adds richness and helps to caramelize the vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness.
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep vegetables:** Chop your desired vegetables into uniform sizes. Some great options include broccoli, asparagus, carrots, mushrooms, and onions.
2. **Melt butter:** In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1-2 tablespoons of Costco butter.
3. **Add vegetables:** Add the vegetables to the skillet and sauté until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
**Tips:**
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** Overcrowding the pan will cause the vegetables to steam instead of sauté. Cook the vegetables in batches if necessary.
* **Add garlic:** For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the skillet during the last minute of cooking.
* **Use fresh herbs:** Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley add a burst of flavor to sautéed vegetables.
### 2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
The secret to truly decadent mashed potatoes lies in the quality of the butter. Costco butter creates a creamy, flavorful mash that is sure to impress.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1/2 cup Costco Kirkland Signature butter, melted
* 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream, warmed
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Boil potatoes:** Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. **Drain potatoes:** Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. **Mash potatoes:** Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth.
4. **Add butter and milk:** Gradually add the melted butter and warmed milk or heavy cream, mixing until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**Variations:**
* **Add garlic:** Roast a head of garlic and mash it into the potatoes for extra flavor.
* **Add cheese:** Stir in shredded cheese, such as cheddar, parmesan, or Gruyere, for cheesy mashed potatoes.
* **Add herbs:** Stir in fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or dill, for a flavorful twist.
### 3. Garlic Butter Shrimp
A quick and easy weeknight meal, garlic butter shrimp is elevated by the rich flavor of Costco butter. Serve it over pasta, rice, or grilled bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 4 tablespoons Costco Kirkland Signature butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Lemon wedges for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt butter:** In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. **Add garlic:** Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. **Add shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Stir in parsley:** Stir in the parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
### 4. Scrambled Eggs
Starting your scrambled eggs with Costco butter adds a richness that’s hard to beat. The gentle melting of the butter in the pan prevents the eggs from sticking and imparts a subtle nutty flavor.
**Instructions:**
1. **Whisk Eggs:** In a bowl, whisk together 2-3 eggs per serving with a splash of milk or cream (optional), salt, and pepper.
2. **Melt Butter:** In a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, melt about a teaspoon of Costco butter per serving. Ensure the butter coats the pan evenly.
3. **Pour in Eggs:** Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and let it sit undisturbed for a few seconds to begin setting around the edges.
4. **Scramble Gently:** Use a spatula to gently push the cooked egg from the edges towards the center, allowing the uncooked egg to flow underneath. Continue this process until the eggs are mostly set but still slightly moist.
5. **Remove from Heat:** Take the skillet off the heat and let the eggs finish cooking from the residual heat. This prevents them from becoming dry and rubbery.
6. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the scrambled eggs immediately, garnished with fresh herbs, cheese, or your favorite toppings.
### 5. Simple Pan Sauces
After searing meats like chicken or steak, a pan sauce utilizing the flavorful fond (the browned bits left in the pan) and Costco butter creates a restaurant-quality finish. The butter emulsifies the sauce, giving it a velvety texture.
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear Meat:** Sear your chosen meat (chicken, steak, pork) in a skillet until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside to rest.
2. **Deglaze the Pan:** Add about 1/2 cup of broth, wine, or other liquid to the skillet and scrape up the browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan. This fond is packed with flavor.
3. **Reduce the Liquid:** Bring the liquid to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors.
4. **Add Butter:** Remove the skillet from the heat and whisk in 2-4 tablespoons of cold Costco butter, one tablespoon at a time, until the butter is melted and the sauce is emulsified. The sauce should be smooth and glossy.
5. **Season and Serve:** Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices (such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic). Pour the sauce over the rested meat and serve immediately.
## Tips for Maximizing Your Costco Butter Experience
* **Storage:** Store Costco butter in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped, to prevent it from absorbing odors. You can also freeze butter for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag.
* **Softening Butter:** To quickly soften butter, cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. You can also microwave it on low power for a few seconds at a time, being careful not to melt it.
* **Salted vs. Unsalted:** Costco offers both salted and unsalted butter. Choose the type that best suits your needs. Unsalted butter is preferred for baking, as it allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe. Salted butter is great for cooking and spreading on toast.
* **Taste Test:** Do a side-by-side taste test with Kerrygold to see if you notice a significant difference. Many people find the Costco version to be remarkably similar.
* **Consider Organic:** Costco sometimes carries organic butter. If you’re looking for organic options, keep an eye out for it.
## Conclusion: Embrace the Flavor and Savings
Costco’s Kirkland Signature butter is a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative to Kerrygold Irish Butter. Its high butterfat content and rich flavor make it a perfect choice for all your baking and cooking needs. By using this readily available and affordable option, you can create delicious dishes without compromising on quality or breaking the bank. So, head to Costco, stock up on their butter, and unleash your culinary creativity! From flaky pie crusts to creamy mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless.