Dairy & Eggs
How to Store Butter
Butter keeps for months in the fridge and longer in the freezer.
Pantry
1–2 days (covered dish, salted)
Fridge
1–3 months
Freezer
Up to 1 year
How to store it
- •Keep butter in its wrapper or a covered dish to block fridge odors and light.
- •A small amount in a covered butter dish at cool room temperature is fine for easy spreading.
- •Freeze extra sticks in their box, sealed in a freezer bag.
Signs it has gone bad
- •Rancid, cheesy or sour smell
- •Discolored or darkened edges
- •Off taste
Pro tips
- •Salted butter lasts longer than unsalted.
- •Wrap tightly — butter easily picks up freezer and fridge smells.
Frequently asked questions
How long does butter last in the fridge?+
In the refrigerator, butter keeps for 1–3 months. Store it correctly and use the oldest first.
Can you freeze butter?+
Yes. Butter keeps in the freezer for up to 1 year. Wrap tightly and press out excess air to avoid freezer burn.
What is the best way to store butter?+
Best kept in the refrigerator. Keep butter in its wrapper or a covered dish to block fridge odors and light.
How can you tell if butter has gone bad?+
Signs that butter has spoiled include: rancid, cheesy or sour smell, discolored or darkened edges, off taste. When in doubt, throw it out.
Recipes to use your butter
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