RECIPESPRODUCTSPANTRYSHOPPING

Unsalted Butter

Unsalted butter is a versatile dairy product made from cream that has been churned until it reaches a solid, semi-soft state. Unlike its salted counterpart, unsalted butter contains no added sodium, allowing for greater control over the salt content in recipes. It is commonly used in a variety of culinary applications, including baking, cooking, and spreading on bread. For home cooks and consumers, unsalted butter is particularly popular in baking because it allows for precision in flavor and texture. Additionally, the lack of salt helps preserve the natural, sweet taste of the butter, which can enhance the overall taste of sweet dishes.
#3
IN BUTTER & MARGARINE
717
CAL / 100G
$0.21
AVG / OZ
unsalted butter
0%
CARBS
99%
FAT
1%
PROTEIN
Unsalted Butter FAQ
Unsalted butter is a commonly used ingredient with a rich, creamy taste that works wonderfully in dishes where you want to control the flavor and sodium content closely. Although it might seem intuitive to use, there are common pitfalls to avoid to make the most out of this ingredient. First being, using unsalted butter in savory dishes where salted butter might be a better option. Moreover, when using in baking, ensure that the butter is at the right temperature. If too soft or melted it can affect the texture of baked goods. A good tip to get the room temperature butter quickly is to grate it or cut into small cubes. Additionally, over browning the butter can introduce bitter notes into your dish. While browning butter intentionally for nutty flavors, keep a close watch as it goes from browned to burnt quickly. Little known hack is to use unsalted butter as a makeshift cooking oil to sauté or roast vegetables, as it gives food a richer taste compared to typical oils.
Why do recipes call for unsalted butter?
Can I use salted butter in place of unsalted butter?
Is there a difference in quality between salted and unsalted butter?
Why does unsalted butter sometimes have a different color to salted butter?
How can I bring cold butter to room temperature quickly?
How to brown the butter without burning?
Does butter tenderize meat?
What is churned butter?
Is unsalted butter healthier than salted?
Can you fry with unsalted butter?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does unsalted butter expire?
Unsalted butter can typically stay fresh if it's kept in the refrigerator for up to about three months unopened. After it's opened, it's usually safe to use for a couple of weeks. If you freeze it, it can last up to 6 to 9 months. All these timeframes assume that you've been storing the butter properly and that the butter wasn't old when you bought it. Always check the expiration date on the packaging as well.
How do you tell if unsalted butter is bad?
Spoiled butter has a distinct sour or rancid smell. It might develop mold (black, pink, green, or yellow spots on the surface), or it may seem discolored with a darker yellow shade compared to fresh butter. You might also notice that the texture changes to a more brittle, crumbly state. If uncertain, a simple taste test can confirm whether it's off or not.
Tips for storing unsalted butter to extend shelf life
• Always store the butter in airtight containers or wraps to avoid absorbing flavors of other foods stored in the fridge. • Unsalted butter is more prone to spoilage due to lack of preserving salt, so avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods. • For longer storage, freeze butter in its original packaging and put it inside a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. • Alternatively, chop into small portions, wrap them individually, and freeze. This way you can thaw just the quantity you need. • Defrost butter in the fridge when you need to use it. Avoid microwave defrosting as it can unevenly melt the butter.
EXPIRES WITHIN
3 - 4
MONTHS
Health Info
Macros
0g
CARBS
11g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
GLUTEN FREE
Contains these allergens
MILK
Recipes with what you have
Download Cooklist
Get the app to track inventory, save recipes, build meal plans and order groceries from local stores.
Scan to download
QR Code