How To Melt Butter In Microwave – Perfect Results In Seconds

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Cooking can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to start. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!

You’re always looking for ways to make life in the kitchen a little bit easier. One of those ways is learning how to melt butter in microwave.

Not only is it faster than melting butter on the stovetop, but it’s also easier to control the temperature, so you can avoid the dreaded burned butter taste.

This is a great trick to know if you’re in a hurry, or if you need to soften butter for a recipe.

In this post, we’ll show you how to melt butter in microwave perfectly every time, in just a few seconds.

So whether you’re looking to make a quick batch of cookies or need some melted butter for a recipe, read on to find out how to do it!

So let’s get started!

How To Melt Butter In Microwave

Butter is one of those ingredients that makes just about everything taste better. Whether you’re using it to cook or bake, or just spreading it on some toast, butter can really take a dish to the next level.

But sometimes, melting butter can be a bit of a pain. If you’re not careful, it can easily burn or become too runny.

Luckily, there’s a foolproof way to melt butter that anyone can do: in the microwave!

With this method, you can have melted butter in just a matter of seconds, and it will be perfectly smooth and creamy every time.

Here’s how to melt butter in microwave perfectly:

1. Start by cutting the butter into small pieces. This will help it melt more evenly.

2. Place the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or container.

3. Microwave the butter on high for 30-60 seconds, or until it is fully melted.

4. Stir the butter to ensure that it is completely melted. If there are any unmelted pieces, microwave for an additional 15-30 seconds.

5. Use the melted butter as desired.

If you need to melt a large amount of butter, you may need to microwave it in batches. Simply repeat the steps above until all of the butter is melted.

There you have it! A quick and easy way to melt butter in the microwave. This method is great for when you’re in a hurry or don’t have access to a stovetop. Just be sure to watch the butter carefully so it doesn’t scorch.

How To Make Clarified Butter

If you’re looking for an even richer flavor, try making clarified butter. This type of butter has had the milk solids and water removed, leaving behind only the pure butterfat.

It’s perfect for cooking and baking, as it has a higher smoke point than regular butter. Plus, it will last longer in the fridge since there’s no water content.

There are a few different methods you can use to clarified butter.

✅ The most common is to simply melt the butter over low heat and then skim the foam and milk solids off the top.

✅ Another method is to put the butter in a pan over low heat and then add a little water. As the water evaporates, it will help to separate the milk solids from the butter.

Whichever method you choose, the key is to melt the butter slowly and carefully so that it doesn’t burn.

Once it’s melted, you can remove it from the heat and strain it through a cheesecloth or coffee filter to remove any final bits of milk solids.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making clarified butter:

1️⃣ Start with good quality butter.

When it comes to clarified butter, the quality of the butter you use will make a big difference.

Look for butter that is made from grass-fed cows and has a high butterfat content.

2️⃣ Cut the butter into small cubes. This will help it melt more evenly.

3️⃣ Place the butter in a saucepan over low heat.

4️⃣ Slowly melt the butter, stirring occasionally.

5️⃣ As the butter melts, the milk solids will begin to rise to the surface.

6️⃣ Use a spoon to skim off the milk solids.

7️⃣ Once the milk solids have been removed, the butter will begin to turn a golden color.

8️⃣ Remove the clarified butter from the heat and strain it through a cheesecloth or coffee filter.

9️⃣ Store the clarified butter in a glass jar or container, being sure to leave the solids behind.

🔟 Clarified butter can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months.

This type of butter is perfect for cooking and baking, as it has a higher smoke point and will last longer in the fridge. Just be sure to carefully pour off the clear liquid, leaving the solids behind.

Whether you’re using it for cooking or baking, or just want some melted butter for dipping, this method is foolproof and super fast.

So next time you need some melted butter, be sure to give this method a try!

Things To Know Before Melting Butter In The Microwave

Before you melt butter in the microwave, there are a few things to keep in mind.

🔸 It’s important to use a microwave-safe container. Glass or ceramic is best, but plastic will work in a pinch. Just be sure that the container is heat-resistant and won’t melt when the butter melts.

🔸 Cut the butter into small pieces before microwaving. This will help the butter melt evenly and prevent it from scorching.

🔸 It’s important to watch the butter carefully while it’s melting. Butter can go from melted to burnt very quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on it.

If the butter begins to smoke or turn brown, it’s time to take it out of the microwave.

🔸 Don’t overdo it! Microwaves can quickly turn butter into a bubbling, hot mess, so keep an eye on it and stop the cooking process as soon as the butter is melted.

🔸 Be sure to stir the butter occasionally while it’s melting. This will help ensure that it melts evenly and doesn’t scorch.

🔸 When you’re finished melting the butter, be sure to remove it from the microwave immediately to prevent it from re-solidifying.

🔸 If you’re melting butter for a recipe, make sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the dish.

🔸 If you’re using the butter for sautéing or frying, be aware that it will foam up and boil over more quickly than melted butter that’s been sitting at room temperature.

🔸 If you’re looking for a more intense flavor, browned butter is a great option.

Simply melt the butter in the microwave as directed above, but continue to cook it in the microwave until it turns a golden brown color. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to melt butter in the microwave like a pro!

How To Measure Butter

When it comes to baking, it’s important to be precise with your ingredients. This is especially true when it comes to measuring butter.

After all, even a small difference in the amount of butter you use can affect the outcome of your recipe.

If a recipe calls for “1/2 cup of butter,” that usually means 1 stick or 1/2 pound of butter. But what if you don’t have a kitchen scale?

Here’s a quick way to measure butter without a scale:

1️⃣ Cut the butter into even-sized pieces.

2️⃣ Line up the pieces of butter next to each other.

3️⃣ Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the length of the butter.

4️⃣ Convert the measurement to cups.

1 stick of butter = 1/2 cup = 4 ounces

2 sticks of butter = 1 cup = 8 ounces

4 sticks of butter = 2 cups = 16 ounces

8 sticks of butter = 4 cups = 32 ounces

Here’s a quick tip: if a recipe calls for “1/4 cup of butter,” you can use 1/2 a stick of butter.

If you don’t have a kitchen scale, you can use the old-fashioned method of measuring by volume.

Fortunately, measuring butter is easy once you know how.

The most important thing to remember is that 1 cup of butter equals 2 sticks, or 8 ounces. So if a recipe calls for 1/2 cup of butter, you’ll need 1 stick, or 4 ounces.

If you’re working with smaller amounts, the best way to measure butter is by using a food scale. Simply place the butter on the scale and weigh it until you have the desired amount.

Another option is to use a liquid measuring cup. Simply fill the cup with water until it reaches the desired level, then add the butter to the water and stir until it melts.

The water will help to keep the butter from sticking to the sides of the cup and making a mess.

Finally, if you’re in a pinch, you can always use an estimation.

For example, 1 tablespoon of butter is roughly equal to 1/2 ounce. So if you need 1/4 cup of butter, you can simply use 4 tablespoons, or 2 ounces.

Just remember that when it comes to baking, it’s always better to be precise than approximate. So take your time and measure your ingredients carefully for best results!

How To Store Melted Butter

If you have any melted butter left over, it’s important to store it properly so it doesn’t go bad.

The best way to store melted butter is in a covered container in the fridge.

Be sure to use a container that’s airtight so the butter doesn’t pick up any unwanted flavors from your fridge.

When stored properly, melted butter will last for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

If you need to store melted butter for longer than that, you can freeze it. Just be sure to use an airtight freezer-safe container. Frozen melted butter will last for up to 6 months.

How Much Butter To Use?

The answer to this question depends on what you’re using the butter for.

Butter is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways, from spreading on toast to baking cakes.

The amount you need will depend on what you’re using it for.

If you’re baking, it’s important to be precise with your measurements. But if you’re cooking or sautéing, you can usually get away with using less butter.

Most baking recipes will call for 1/2 cup (118 ml) or 1 cup (237 ml) of butter. This is a lot of butter, so it’s important to use it sparingly.

Here are some general guidelines for how much butter to use:
  • For baking, use 1 stick (1/2 cup) of butter per recipe.
  • For cooking or sautéing, start with 1 tablespoon of butter and add more as needed.
  • For greasing a pan, use 1 teaspoon of butter per 12-inch pan.
  • For cooking vegetables, use about 1 tablespoon of butter per pound of vegetables.
  • For cooking meat, use about 2 tablespoons of butter per pound of meat.
  • For making a sauce or gravy, use about 1/4 cup of butter per cup of liquid.
  • For spreading on toast or other bread, you’ll need around 1-2 tablespoons of butter per slice.
  • For cooking eggs, pancakes, or other breakfast items, you’ll need around 2 tablespoons of butter per person.
  • For baking cakes or other desserts, the amount of butter you’ll need will vary depending on the recipe. Start with the amount called for in the recipe and then add more if needed.
  • For making sauces or other dishes where butter is the main ingredient, you’ll need around 1/4 cup of butter per serving.

Of course, these are just general guidelines. Your best bet is to follow the recipe carefully and use the amount of butter that it calls for.

Keep in mind that you can always use less butter than a recipe calls for, but you can’t use more. So if you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of using less rather than more.

With these guidelines in mind, you should have no trouble using the right amount of butter in your recipes!

How To Use Melted Butter

Now that you know how to melt butter, you might be wondering what you can do with it.

Melted butter can be used in a variety of ways. It’s often used in baking recipes as a way to moisten and flavor the batter. It can also be used for sautéing vegetables or meat.

But did you know that melted butter can also be used in a variety of other ways?

Here are just a few ideas for how you can use melted butter:

1️⃣ As a healthy cooking oil

Melted butter makes a great healthy cooking oil. Just be sure to use it in moderation, as it is high in saturated fat.

2️⃣ As a flavorful addition to soups and stews

Add a little melted butter to your favorite soups and stews for an extra boost of flavor.

3️⃣ As a dip for bread

Dip bread into melted butter for a delicious and easy snack.

4️⃣ As a topping for baked goods

Top off your favorite baked goods with a little melted butter for a delicious treat.

5️⃣ As a massage oil

Melted butter makes a great massage oil. Just be sure to not use too much, as it can make your skin greasy.

Now that you know all of the different ways you can use melted butter, get creative and start incorporating it into your cooking!

Other Ways To Melt Butter In The Microwave

When you think about it, there are quite a few ways to melt butter. You can use a stove top, a microwave, or even a slow cooker. But what if you want to melt butter without using any of those methods?

Here are a few other ways to melt butter:

1. In the Sun

If it’s a sunny day, you can set a dish of butter out in the sun to melt. Just be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too hot and start to smoke.

2. On a Hot Plate

You can also melt butter on a hot plate. Just set the heat to low and place the butter on the plate. Stir it occasionally until it’s melted.

3. In a Double Boiler

If you have a double boiler, you can use that to melt butter. Just put the butter in the top part of the boiler and set it over simmering water.

4. In the Microwave

You can melt butter in the microwave, but it’s best to do it in short bursts so you don’t overcook it. Put the butter in a microwave-safe dish and heat it on high for 30 seconds. Stir, then heat for another 30 seconds. Repeat until the butter is melted.

5. On the Stove

You can also melt butter on the stove. Just put the butter in a pan over low heat and stir until it’s melted.

Now that you know some other ways to melt butter, you can choose the method that’s best for you.

Melted Butter Vs Softened Butter 

When it comes to baking, there are a few key ingredients that are essential. One of those ingredients is butter.

But when it comes to using butter in recipes, there is often confusion about which type of butter to use: melted butter or softened butter.

The main difference between melted butter and softened butter is the state of the butter.

  • Melted butter is, well, melted – it has been heated until it is in a liquid state.
  • Softened butter, on the other hand, has been left out at room temperature until it is soft to the touch but not melted.

Melted Butter

Melted butter is, well, melted. It’s been heated to a liquid state, so it’s easy to pour and spread. Melted butter is often used in baking recipes, because it can be easily mixed into wet ingredients.

It’s been heated to a liquid state and is typically used in recipes that require a liquid form of butter, such as sauces or glazes.

Melted butter can also be used for sautéing and frying. It has a high smoke point, so it can withstand high heat without burning.

Just be careful not to overcook your food, because melted butter can quickly turn from a golden brown to burnt.

Softened Butter

Softened butter is, you guessed it, softened. It’s been left out at room temperature until it’s soft enough to spread. Softened butter is often used in baking recipes that call for creaming the butter and sugar together.

It’s typically used in recipes that require a solid form of butter, such as cookies or cakes.

Softened butter can also be used for spreading on toast or for making frosting. It’s also a good choice for recipes that call for “melted and cooled” butter, because it’s already at the perfect consistency.

So, which type of butter should you use for baking? It depends on the recipe.

If a recipe calls for melted butter, it is likely because the liquid state of the butter is necessary for the recipe.

For example, melted butter is often used in recipes for sauces, or when making pastry dough.

If a recipe calls for softened butter, it is likely because the butter needs to be in a softened state in order to cream together with other ingredients.

For example, when making cakes or cookies, you will usually cream together softened butter with sugar. This helps to create a light and fluffy texture.

In general, you can substitute melted butter for softened butter in most recipes. However, keep in mind that the texture of your baked goods may be slightly different if you do this.

So, the next time you are baking, be sure to use the type of butter that the recipe calls for. This will help you to create baked goods that are perfect every time!

FAQs

Is 1 cup solid butter the same as 1 cup melted butter?

No, 1 cup of solid butter is not the same as 1 cup of melted butter. One cup of solid butter is equal to 2 sticks or 16 tablespoons. One cup of melted butter is equal to 14 tablespoons.

How do I melt butter without a microwave?

You can melt butter on the stovetop or in the oven.

🔸 To melt butter on the stovetop, put the butter in a pan over low heat and stir until it’s melted.

🔸 To melt butter in the oven, put the butter in a baking dish and bake at 200 degrees Fahrenheit until it’s melted.

How do you melt butter in the microwave without it exploding?

To melt butter in the microwave without it exploding, put the butter in a microwave-safe dish and heat on low power for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between. Once the butter is melted, continue to stir until it’s smooth.

How do you know when melted butter is bad?

Melted butter can go bad if it’s heated too high or if it’s not stored properly. If your melted butter has a sour smell or taste, or if it looks greenish-grey, it’s best to throw it out.

How long does melted butter last?

Melted butter will last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it in a covered container so that it doesn’t pick up any flavors from other foods.

What is the fastest way to melt butter?

The fastest way to melt butter is in the microwave. Put the butter in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high power for 30-60 seconds, stirring every 20 seconds, until the butter is melted.

Does butter have a high melting point?

Butter has a high melting point, which means it can withstand high heat without burning. Just be careful not to overcook your food, because melted butter can quickly turn from a golden brown to burnt.

How do you soften butter quickly?

To soften butter quickly, put it in the microwave for 5-10 seconds on low power. You can also put it in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can cut the butter into small pieces so that it will soften faster.

Why did your butter explode in the microwave?

If your butter exploded in the microwave, it was probably because it was overheated. When butter is heated too quickly, the water inside of it turns to steam and causes the butter to expand and explode.

Final Thoughts

If you need to melt butter quickly, the microwave is your best friend. Just make sure to use a bowl that’s safe for the microwave and start with lower power settings, checking and stirring often. With a little patience, you’ll have melted butter in no time. 

Hopefully, this guide has helped you learn how to melt butter in microwave perfectly every time. Whether you’re using it for cooking or baking, or just need a quick way to soften butter, melting it in the microwave is a great option. Just be sure to follow the tips and advice in this guide so that you don’t end up with burnt butter or a messy kitchen!

Thanks for reading!

Vinoteca author Barbara

Vinoteca

Hi friends, I'm Barbara. I'm a food addictor who loves cooking! If you're looking for easy cooking tips, nutrition advice and reliable kitchen appliance reviews, you've come to the right place. At Vinoteca, we'll help you learn everything you need to know to make delicious meals at home.