How to Soften Butter Quickly

Need to soften butter—fast? This easy microwave method for softening butter will have it ready in under 30 seconds.

You’re ready to bake, but your butter is…not. We’ve all been there!

This easy method for how to soften butter quickly works every time, and I personally use it at least once a week.

It’s easy, it’s fast, and softens butter to the perfect temperature.

How to Soften Butter Quickly in the Microwave

1. Cut a stick of butter into tablespoons (8 slices per stick), and place on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Microwave on DEFROST for 10 seconds.
3. Flip the slices of butter over, and microwave on DEFROST for another 10 seconds.
4. Press your finger into the butter. If it leaves an indentation, your butter is good to go. If not, microwave on DEFROST in 5 second bursts, until softened (flip the butter each time).

I have an 1800 watt microwave and it takes 25–30 seconds total.

Troubleshooting Tips:

1. If the butter starts to melt, or your finger goes all the way through when you press into it, start over with a new stick of butter, with shorter intervals. Ugh, I know. Some microwaves are just a little unpredictable, and you don’t want your cookies getting flat, do you? Save that butter for spreading on toast or for a recipe that uses melted butter (like these Overnight Waffles or Caramelitas).
2. Only need a tablespoon or two of softened butter? Start with 5-second increments on DEFROST. Don’t forget to flip the butter each time.
3. Did I mention your microwave needs to be set to DEFROST? This method does not work with regular power.

What Temperature is softened butter?

Softened butter is between 65°F and 68°F.

If you’re softening a stick of butter on the counter, it takes about 1½–2 hours at room temperature (72°F) to reach 65°F.

What about the glass bowl method?

I know other people use it, but the glass bowl just does NOT work for me! It involves adding steaming water to a glass bowl, letting it sit, dumping it out, and then placing the hot glass bowl over a stick of butter. It takes nearly 20 minutes (which does not fit my definitely of “quickly”) and it doesn’t bring the butter to a high enough temperature.

Here’s my attempt of it:

I’m team microwave all the way. The DEFROST setting is your best friend for softening butter quickly, every time.

Baking ideas for your newly softened butter