Introduction

Garlic Butter Candles are a fun and delicious way to serve garlic butter at your next gathering. These edible candles combine savory roasted garlic butter with rustic bread for a warm, interactive appetizer that’s sure to impress.

A close-up view of two round yellow and white beeswax candles with small dark flecks, each surrounded by fresh green rosemary sprigs. The candles are set in the middle of a large, crusty loaf of bread with a golden-brown and flour-dusted crust, showing rough texture and torn bread crumbs near the candle bases. This scene is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter
2 Tablespoons minced roasted garlic

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 (6-inch) beeswax candle wicks

2 (6 ounce) disposable cups
4 clothespins (or similar object)

1 whole loaf bread (Italian or any rustic style)
5-6 rosemary sprigs

Instructions

Step 1: In a small saucepan, melt the butter with the minced roasted garlic and Italian seasoning over medium heat. Stir until hot and fragrant, then set aside to cool slightly but not solidify.

Step 2: Prepare the disposable cups by placing a beeswax candle wick in each. Secure the wick in the center at the top of the cup using clothespins or a similar object.
Step 3: Pour about ½ cup of the melted butter mixture into each cup, making sure not to cover the wick.
Step 4: Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until the butter has hardened.

Step 5: Once hardened, gently squeeze the butter candle out of the cup from the bottom, or carefully cut down the side of the cup if needed.
Step 6: Place the disposable cups on top of the whole loaf of bread where you want to serve the candles.
Step 7: Using a sharp bread knife, carefully cut around each cup into the bread, then remove the center piece to create a round, cup-sized hole. Leave a layer of bread at the bottom to soak up the melted butter.

Step 8: Insert the butter candles into the holes and fill any extra space around the cups with rosemary sprigs. Trim the wick if it seems too long.
Step 9: Light the candles and let the butter begin to melt. Tear off pieces of bread and dip into the melted garlic butter. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use any rustic or artisan bread like sourdough or ciabatta for a different texture and flavor.

Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fresh twist.
If roasting garlic at home, wrap whole garlic cloves in foil and roast in a 400°F oven for 30-40 minutes until soft.
Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter for a subtle kick.

Storage

Store unused garlic butter candles in the refrigerator, wrapped or in containers, for up to one week. Reheat gently to melt the butter before use. The bread should be served fresh; any leftover bread can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days but is best enjoyed the same day.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows two glowing yellow melted cheese candles, round in shape with a textured surface and brown herb specks, placed in the hollow of a thick, rustic brown bread loaf dusted with white flour. Fresh green rosemary sprigs are arranged along the edge of the bread near the cheese candles. A woman's hand is dipping a torn piece of soft, fluffy bread into one of the melted cheese candle centers. The background features a white marbled texture and a blurred blue and white checkered cloth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to the mixture to enhance the flavor.

How do I safely light the butter candles?

Ensure the wick is fully inserted and upright. Use a long lighter or match to safely light the wick without touching the melted butter. Always place candles on a heat-safe surface, like the bread, and never leave them unattended.