Tips to perfectly spreadable butter

Nothing ruins a delicious slice of sourdough like cold, unspreadable butter. Whether you like it lightly softened or slightly melty, getting the perfect butter texture makes all the difference. Since we know a thing or two about great bread, here are easy ways to soften butter so it’s always ready to complement our handcrafted sourdough loaves.
How Do You Soften Butter Quickly?
1. The Room Temperature Method (Best for Planners)
- Take your butter out 10–15 minutes before making toast.
- If your kitchen feels like the Arctic, cut the butter into smaller pieces to help it warm up faster.
- Pro tip: A butter dish with a lid keeps it fresh and ready for action.
2. Can You Microwave Butter to Soften It? (For the Forgetful Butter Lover)
- Cut a small piece and microwave it for 5–10 seconds on low power.
- Warning: Butter melts fast, so watch it closely unless you want butter soup.
3. What’s the Hot Glass Trick for Butter? (Even Melting, No Microwaving Required)
- Fill a glass or bowl with hot water, let it sit for a minute, then tip the water away.
- Place the warm glass over your butter and let the magic happen for a couple of minutes.
4. What is a Butter Bell, and Should You Use One?
- A butter bell (or butter crock) keeps butter spreadable and fresh without refrigeration.
- Just add water to the base to create an airtight seal that preserves that creamy goodness.
5. What’s the Cheese Grater Hack for Butter?
- Use a cheese grater to shred cold butter onto your toast.
- It softens instantly and spreads like a dream.
What’s the Best Butter for Sourdough Bread?
We believe butter should enhance the flavour of great sourdough bread, not overpower it. That’s why we reach for lightly salted butter, as it brings out the tangy notes of our signature loaves. For an extra kick, try a sprinkle of our spicy everything seasoning over the butter.
👉 Pair it with one of our sourdough loaves or bagels for the perfect bite.
What’s the Best Butter for Sweet Toasts?
We make our very own cinnamon honey butter, personally crafted by our founder Emily. She grew up eating it and absolutely loves it – so if you fancy something slightly sweet, give it a try on our white country sourdough or our cinnamon and raisin bagels!
How Long Can Butter Be Left Out?
Salted butter can be left at room temperature for about one to two weeks, as long as it’s stored properly. The salt acts as a natural preservative, keeping bacteria at bay.
How Do You Keep Butter Fresh?
✔ Store it in a butter dish with a lid to keep out unwanted flavours and dust.
✔ Keep it away from heat and direct sunlight (no one likes sweaty butter).
✔ Use a butter bell for extended freshness.
✔ If your kitchen is warmer than 21°C, consider refrigerating it and taking it out as needed.
✔ If your butter smells off or tastes funky, it’s time to say goodbye.
The Perfect Spread Starts with Great Bread
At the end of the day, perfectly spreadable butter is only half the equation – you need great bread to go with it. Whether you’re slathering salted butter on a crusty baguette or indulging in cinnamon honey butter on a bagel, the right pairing makes all the difference.
Ready to take your buttered toast to the next level? Explore our range of artisan sourdough loaves.