Creamed honey, also known as spun honey, churned honey, or whipped honey, is a type of natural honey that undergoes processing to control crystallization, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture. Unlike regular honey, creamed honey has distinct structural and physical characteristics that set it apart:
- Creamed honey has a pale white color, while regular honey has a golden hue.
- After crystallization, creamed honey forms small crystals, while regular honey develops larger crystals.
- Creamed honey is soft and spreads easily, making it perfect for spreading on toast.
- In comparison, creamed honey is thicker than regular honey, giving it a rich consistency.
Honey crystallization is a natural process where sugar crystals form and develop within honey. Honey is a supersaturated sugar substance composed mainly of glucose and fructose, making it prone to crystallization. If you notice lumps or firmness in your honey, or tiny white flecks floating in it, don’t worry—it’s a sign that your honey is undergoing the natural process of crystallization, indicating its purity.
The crystallization of honey can vary depending on the floral source from which the bees collect nectar. Different flowers have varying ratios of fructose and glucose, which are reflected in the crystal formation of the honey. Honey from clovers or sunflowers tends to crystallize faster, while honey from eucalyptus or maple crystallizes more slowly.
Apart from crystallization, the water content in honey also affects the quality of creamed honey. Honey with higher water content is more susceptible to fermentation. Beekeepers face significant losses due to fermentation when bees struggle to ripen their honey properly.
Now, let’s explore how to make creamed honey using two different methods:
The Raw Method:
To make creamed honey using the raw method, you’ll need raw, unprocessed honey and a honey mixer. Follow these steps:
- Pour the honey into the honey mixer.
- Mix the honey on medium speed for 20 minutes.
- Once the honey has turned light in color with a creamy texture, turn off the mixer.
- Let the honey rest for 2 hours, then mix again at medium speed for 20 minutes.
- Repeat this process 2-4 more times before storing the creamed honey in a jar or deli container.
The Dyce Method:
The Dyce method involves regulating the crystallization process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Liquid honey (raw)
- One lb. of seed crystals, which can be obtained from a previous batch of creamed honey or purchased online or in grocery stores.
- Honey cups
- Honey pail
Follow these instructions for the Dyce method:
- Blend your honey according to your preferred flavor, color, and moisture levels.
- Pasteurize the honey by heating it to 120°F or 48.9°C, and strain it to remove large particles and beeswax.
- Heat the honey to 150°F or 65.6°C for approximately 15 minutes to dissolve residual crystals and eliminate yeast cells. Strain the heated honey through a fine mesh into the honey pail to remove any small impurities.
- Cool the honey as quickly as possible to 60-75°F.
- Introduce the seed crystal to the honey at a ratio of 1:10 (crystals to pasteurized honey) by weight. Mix the liquid honey thoroughly with the crystals, then pour the mixture into creamed honey containers.
- Seal the containers in a cool room at 55°F or 12.8°C undisturbed for 7-14 days.
Creamed honey offers a delightful addition to various dishes, he is liked by many clients.
Here are some mouth-watering ways to enjoy creamed honey:
- Stir it into your hot tea or coffee cup for a sweet and creamy flavor.
- Melt it into your bowl of oatmeal or cereal to enhance the taste.
- Spread it on toast, muffins, bagels, biscuits, or fresh rolls for a delicious treat.
- Get adventurous and make creamed honey and peanut butter sandwiches.
- Use it as a topping for waffles or pancakes.
- Dip fresh apple slices into creamed honey for a healthy and flavorful snack.
- Substitute creamed honey for regular honey in your baking recipes for a unique twist.
If you’re interested in the creamed honey machine or have any inquiries, feel free to contact us. We specialize in honey mixers and can provide you with honey processing equipment.