TikTok has become a hotspot for viral food trends, and the latest to captivate users is the “butter candle” – an edible candle made of melted butter, designed to slowly drip as a warm dip for bread. While visually striking and interactive, food experts caution that the trend may not be as simple or safe as it appears in viral videos.

The trend sees home cooks crafting their own butter candles, often infusing them with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to enhance the flavour. Videos of the candles melting into pools of golden butter have drawn millions of views, sparking curiosity among food lovers. However, experts from meal kit delivery service HelloFresh warn that recreating the trend at home requires careful consideration.

Mimi Morley, senior recipe development manager at HelloFresh, highlights key concerns: “As with many viral hacks, it’s important to approach the butter candle trend with caution. While they add a striking visual element to your dining table, there are practical considerations to keep in mind.

“If you’re tempted to try this trend yourself, it’s crucial to ensure that you use a food-safe wick. These are readily available online, but the type of wick used isn’t always clearly mentioned in these TikTok videos. Using a non-food-safe wick could introduce harmful chemicals or materials to the melted butter, potentially making it unsafe to consume.”

Another potential issue is the structural integrity of the candle. “It’s a good idea to research how to properly secure the wick within the butter to ensure it burns evenly and safely. Without the right setup, you might end up with an unevenly melting candle or, worse, a wick that extinguishes too quickly,” Morley explains.

How to safely make a butter candle at home

For those eager to try the trend, Morley shares her top tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Choose high-quality butter. Use unsalted, high-end butter to control seasoning. Adding finely chopped herbs or garlic can enhance the flavour.
• Melt with care. Gently melt the butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid overheating to prevent browning or burning.
• Use a proper mould. Secure the wick in a mould, such as a paper cup, and pour in the melted butter. Refrigerate for several hours until solidified.
• Check the wick. Ensure the wick is food-safe and properly secured. Peel away the mould or cut away the paper cup to reveal the candle.
• Set up your butter candle correctly. Cut a hole in the centre of a loaf of bread to fit the candle snugly. Once positioned, light the wick and let the butter slowly melt for dipping.

While the butter candle trend adds a unique element to dining experiences, experts urge caution when attempting it at home. By taking the right precautions, food lovers can safely enjoy this interactive culinary creation.