Are you storing butter the right way? Experts explain how to keep it fresh and safe
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Butter might be a pantry staple, but not everyone agrees on how to store it.
Some swear by keeping it out on the counter, while others insist the fridge is the only safe option.
And what about the freezer?
According to experts at Land O' Lakes, proper butter storage can make all the difference in flavor, texture, and food safety.
Here's what you need to know to keep your butter in tip-top shape.
Is it safe to leave butter out?
If you're using butter within a few hours, letting it soften at room temperature is fine.
But beyond four hours, it should go back in the fridge.
Butter is a dairy product, and like milk or cheese, it's safest when kept cold.
Leaving it out too long can affect its taste, color, and safety.
Food safety agencies like the USDA recommend refrigeration for all dairy, including butter.
Also read: Recall alert: Something’s not right with this popular dairy product
Where in the fridge should it go?
Those little butter compartments built into your fridge door might seem convenient, but they’re actually one of the warmest spots in the appliance.
Experts recommend storing butter in its original packaging in the coldest part of the fridge—usually the back of a middle or bottom shelf.
Once opened, pop the sticks into a resealable bag or airtight container to protect them from absorbing nearby food odors.
Also read: Nutritionists reveal the truth: Is this sweet spread really packing the protein you need?
Yes, you can freeze butter
Want to take advantage of a sale or stock up ahead of the holidays?
Freezing butter is a great option!
Just keep it in its original carton to prevent freezer burn, and try to use it within four months.
To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight.
If you're short on time, you can grate frozen butter for quick softening—perfect for baking.
Also read: Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
How to spot spoiled butter
Butter doesn't last forever.
If it smells off, tastes sour, or develops a darker color or mold, it's time to toss it.
And no, scraping off the moldy part isn’t enough.
When in doubt, it's better to be safe and throw it out.
Also read: The Foil Debate Finally Settled by Reynolds: Are You Using It All Wrong?
Tips for butter that tastes its best
The next time you reach for a stick of butter, you’ll know exactly where to find it and how to keep it fresh.
A little storage know-how goes a long way!
Read next: Smucker’s adds a sweet new twist to this classic ’60s favorite
What’s your go-to method for keeping butter fresh—do you stick with the fridge, swear by the counter, or freeze it for later? Let us know in the comments!
Some swear by keeping it out on the counter, while others insist the fridge is the only safe option.
And what about the freezer?
According to experts at Land O' Lakes, proper butter storage can make all the difference in flavor, texture, and food safety.
Here's what you need to know to keep your butter in tip-top shape.
Proper butter storage can help maintain its flavor, texture, and safety longer. Image Source: Pexels / Markus Spiske.
Is it safe to leave butter out?
If you're using butter within a few hours, letting it soften at room temperature is fine.
But beyond four hours, it should go back in the fridge.
Butter is a dairy product, and like milk or cheese, it's safest when kept cold.
Leaving it out too long can affect its taste, color, and safety.
Food safety agencies like the USDA recommend refrigeration for all dairy, including butter.
Also read: Recall alert: Something’s not right with this popular dairy product
Where in the fridge should it go?
Those little butter compartments built into your fridge door might seem convenient, but they’re actually one of the warmest spots in the appliance.
Experts recommend storing butter in its original packaging in the coldest part of the fridge—usually the back of a middle or bottom shelf.
Once opened, pop the sticks into a resealable bag or airtight container to protect them from absorbing nearby food odors.
Also read: Nutritionists reveal the truth: Is this sweet spread really packing the protein you need?
Yes, you can freeze butter
Want to take advantage of a sale or stock up ahead of the holidays?
Freezing butter is a great option!
Just keep it in its original carton to prevent freezer burn, and try to use it within four months.
To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight.
If you're short on time, you can grate frozen butter for quick softening—perfect for baking.
Also read: Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
How to spot spoiled butter
Butter doesn't last forever.
If it smells off, tastes sour, or develops a darker color or mold, it's time to toss it.
And no, scraping off the moldy part isn’t enough.
When in doubt, it's better to be safe and throw it out.
Also read: The Foil Debate Finally Settled by Reynolds: Are You Using It All Wrong?
Tips for butter that tastes its best
- Always keep butter covered to prevent it from absorbing other flavors.
- Consider a butter bell or crock if you like soft, spreadable butter—these gadgets can keep it fresh on the counter for up to a week.
- Use unsalted butter quickly or freeze it, since it doesn’t keep as long as salted.
The next time you reach for a stick of butter, you’ll know exactly where to find it and how to keep it fresh.
A little storage know-how goes a long way!
Read next: Smucker’s adds a sweet new twist to this classic ’60s favorite
What’s your go-to method for keeping butter fresh—do you stick with the fridge, swear by the counter, or freeze it for later? Let us know in the comments!
