3. Keep It Away from Heat
Store butter far from the stove, oven, or direct sunlight. Heat softens it excessively and speeds up spoilage.
4. Consider a French Butter Crock
A butter crock keeps butter airtight and cool using a small water seal—an elegant way to keep butter spreadable without refrigeration.
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How to Tell If Butter Has Gone Bad
Butter doesn’t usually spoil in a way that makes you sick, but it can become unpleasant. Signs it’s time to toss it include:
A sour or soapy smell
A darker yellow surface or oily appearance
A bitter or odd taste
Visible mold (rare, but discard immediately if present)