Who else has tried to melt butter, only to have it explode in the microwave or melt too quickly into a puddle?

Here are 4 ways to achieve the result you want without the mess:

1. Cut up or Grate the butter:

Measure out the amount of butter you need for your recipe. Then take a knife and cut the butter into small cubes until it softens. Or grab your grater and grate the butter into a bowl. 

2. Use Indirect heat:

If you need softened butter for a recipe, but you all already cooking something on the stove or near the oven, try placing the butter near the heat source. 

3. Roll out the butter:

Need to release some stress? Try this method by taking two sheets of wax paper and rolling out the amount of butter you need. This is what you'll need to do to make homemade puff pastry!

4. Trap it under a hot object

Pour hot water into a bowl or cup and let it sit for a minute so the vessel heats up. Then quickly cover the butter with the cup or bowl and it will soften before you know it!