Make sure butter is at the right temperature
Butter temperature matters for baking! And it’s likely that “room temperature” butter is cooler than you think, at about 65°F. It will feel cool to the touch and soft enough that a pressed finger will leave an indent, but it should not be soft enough that your finger can press all the way through. If it’s shiny or melty at all, the butter is too warm.
For best results, let your butter sit on the counter for 30-60 minutes (depending on the temperature of your kitchen). Cutting the butter into cubes increases surface area, speeds up the process, and ensures it softens evenly. I never recommend microwaving your butter, but as an absolute last-resort you can microwave in 5-second bursts, rotating it after each burst.
Does the type of butter (salted vs. unsalted) affect the softening time for shortbread cookies?
No it doesn’t!
If I use butter from the freezer, is there a way to shorten the time without melting the butter? basket random
You can let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours or in the fridge overnight. You can use a microwave, but you risk melting at least some of the butter.
Excellent reminder! For baked items to have the ideal texture, butter temperature is essential. I completely agree that avoiding the microwave whenever possible is a good idea, and that “finger indent” test is invaluable. Thank you for sharing this great idea on cubing the butter to get even softness!