• Butter is softened when you can press your finger into it to make an indent but your finger doesn't push all the way through the stick.
• Leave the butter on the counter for at least 45 minutes before baking to allow it to soften.

Quick Ways to soften butter

• Slice your butter and allow it to sit at room temperature - it will take less time.
• Place butter in a gallon size ziploc bag or between sheets of wax paper and pound it with a rolling pin to flatten.
• Heat on 50% power in 5 second increments in the microwave, rotating the stick every time.
• Place hot water in a glass then remove the water and invert it over the stick of butter and allow it to sit for 5 minutes.