How to Soften Butter Quickly When You Forgot to Take It Out
When you set out to bake cookies or make a cake, you might notice that many recipes call for softened butter.
So yes, you should soften your butter if the recipe calls for it. Softened butter falls somewhere between cold and melted, ideally around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s the ideal temperature for creaming with sugar, and it’ll whip up nicely for any type of frosting or batter. The best way to soften butter is to leave it out on the counter, which usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
But if your butter is still hanging out in the fridge and you’re ready to bake, don’t panic! There are a few handy tricks for softening it quickly. Here, you’ll find out how to soften butter fast and how to tell if your butter is soft enough to use.
How to Soften Butter Quickly
1. Dice the butter.
This method speeds up softening butter on the counter. Simply cut the stick of butter into small cubes to help it soften faster.
2. Grate the butter.
Using the large holes of a box grater, you can grate your stick of butter to create shavings that will soften in minutes! This method also works if you're dealing with frozen butter.
3. Hit the butter with a rolling pin.
Looking to relieve some stress? Try taking it out on your butter by pounding the cold butter with a rolling pin! Just be sure to place the butter between two pieces of wax paper, then flatten the butter by hitting it or rolling it with your pin.
4. Use a cup of hot water.
Microwave water in a glass (or boil it in a kettle, then pour it into a glass). After you fill up the glass, pour it out. Then, set the hot glass over your stick of butter. Wait about 10 to 15 minutes, and the butter will soften.
5. Use the microwave.
The microwave works fast, but follow a few simple rules so you don’t melt it too quickly. Microwave at 50% power or less in 10-second intervals. Rotate the stick of butter to a new side after each interval, making sure you get all four long sides.
How to Tell When Butter is Softened Enough
Softened butter is likely cooler than you might expect. You’ll know you've reached the ideal softness when the butter is easily indented when pinched with your fingers without losing its shape. That’s usually around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, but you don’t need a thermometer to tell. The butter should still feel cool and look smooth (not greasy). It should be pliable, but never mushy.
