Butter hardens due to cold in the fridge or cold weather.
However, some recipes call for butter to be in a certain consistency.
While others may require melting it others need the butter softened.
Here's how to soften butter;
1. Grate the butter
Using a grater to rub the fine strips into your hot toast could soften it easily.
This method will ensure you won't have to melt the whole jar of butter that you might not need.
2. Set it out for some time or slightly heat
Leaving the butter out on the kitchen counter for around half an hour will help it melt easily.
If you can't wait, putting it on the microwave for about five seconds will soften it quickly.
In case you overheat your butter you can put it in a dish and immerse it in an ice bath (with ice cubes) to make it slightly solid.
3. Beat up the butter
This can be achieved by a hand mixer or a spoon.
Just like ice cream, beating up butter will help soften it.