How to Make an Herbed Version of Butter Candles, TikTok's Latest Viral Food Trend

Move over, butter boards—the next big butter trend has arrived and it's taken TikTok by storm: butter candles! What's a butter candle? Exactly what the name says: a candle made of butter, which can be plain or flavored. When you light the wick (yes, there is an actual flame involved!), the butter softens and melts, making it perfect for spreading onto bread—or dipping bread into.  

Chef Jordan Andino is a fan and serves them to every guest at his Carriage House restaurant in New York City, which specializes in modern takes on classic American food. As he explains it, the idea behind offering the butter candle there is two-fold. "One, elevate the experience of every customer that comes in, and what better way than to light butter on fire—what a cool experience. But, also, I hate cold butter. I hate when you rub that butter on bread, and it completely breaks up the bread." 

Here's his herb and lemon version with a touch of cinnamon. It's amazing!  

For 6 candles, cut organic food-safe beeswax wick into eighteen 2-inch pieces. Twist 3 strands tightly together to create a total of 6 twisted wicks, then set aside.  

In a medium saucepan, combine ¾ pound (3 sticks) cubed room temperature unsalted butter with 1 teaspoon each finely chopped sage leaves, thyme leaves and rosemary leaves. Add ½ teaspoon lemon zest, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon and a large pinch of flaky sea salt and gently warm over low heat.  

As soon as the butter pieces are very soft and partially (not fully) melted, remove the pan from the heat and mix the ingredients with a rubber spatula until evenly combined. 

Press the mixture into six small silicone molds, then push a twisted wick into the center of each candle. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 45 minutes, or until the butter has hardened.  

When ready to serve, pop the candles out of the mold, place on 6 heatproof plates with your favorite toasted bread and light the wicks. Let the candles flame for about 2 minutes before cutting into them.

Note: Feel free to adjust the flavorings as you like. Jordan forms the candles in ice-cube size silicone molds. You can use whatever size and type vessels you have, including small wax paper cups. Just keep in mind that you need to unmold the candles before serving. 

You can catch more of Jordan on "Cook at All Costs," streaming on Netflix.