How To Soften Butter

Step 1: Option 1: Fill a large measuring cup (2-4 cups) with water. Heat in the microwave until it is very hot. Meanwhile, cut the butter into small pieces and place in a small bowl. CAREFULLY remove the container of water from the microwave. Immediately place the bowl of butter in the microwave and close the door. Let sit for 10 minutes. Voila - soft butter!

Step 2: Option 2: Use a large-hole grater and grate the hard butter. Give it a few minutes to soften.

Step 3: Option 3: Find a drinking glass that fits fully over the stick of butter. I use a pint glass - the kind you drink beer from. Fill it with water and heat in the microwave until boiling (1-2 minutes. Place the stick of butter upright on a small plate. Carefully dump the boiling water out of the glass, then place the EMPTY & HOT glass over the stick of butter. It will be soft in less than 10 minutes.

Step 4: Option 4: Same as above, but use a heatproof bowl that will cover a stick of butter that's lying flat.

Step 5: Option 5: Place the stick of butter between a large sheet of parchment paper folded in half. Uses a rolling pin to flatten the stick of butter. Let sit until soft - a few minutes.

Step 6: Option 6: This method is last resort for when you need the butter super fast. However, there is a risk it might melt, as all microwaves are different. Place butter on a microwave-safe dish. Leave the wrapper on. Heat at full power for 5 seconds. Flip the stick over and repeat. Repeat for the remaining two sides. In all - 4 sides at 5 seconds full power. Good luck!