The Butter Tray: Our Top 19 Picks for Storing and Serving Butter

Butter trays, also known as butter dishes or butter keepers, are an essential part of any kitchen. These handy containers not only keep butter fresh for longer periods, but they also add a touch of elegance to any table setting. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the top butter trays currently on the market. We’ll explore their features, designs, and materials to help you choose the perfect butter tray for your kitchen.

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Reviews

Amhomel Large Butter Holder with Lid and Cover

The amHomel butter dish is a versatile and attractive solution for your countertop, perfect for holding up to 2 sticks of butter. The deep and wide container is made of durable porcelain, a premium, lead-free, non-toxic material. The beech wood lid, which can also double as a cutting board, completes a beautiful farmhouse-style set. Use the butter dish as a storage solution for more than just your butter, and give it as a thoughtful gift for any occasion.

Butter Bell: French Butter Crock in Midnight Black

Bring a classic French touch to your kitchen with the Butter Bell Retro Crock. Perfect for keeping your butter fresh and easily spreadable, this stylish crock avoids the need for refrigeration. Simply fill with a stick of butter, add cold water to the base, and store on your counter. With an elegant design and a choice of colors, this practical yet retro product is sure to impress.

Anthropologie - Mint Butter Dish by Old Havana Collection

Welcome to the Old Havana Butter Dish by Anthropologie, an exquisite focal point for any dining table. Artfully fashioned in Portugal, this masterpiece proudly showcases vibrant, crackled glazed colors and exquisite reactive glazing that exudes an air of refinement. Choose from an array of styles, and prepare to receive numerous accolades and admiration from your guests for years to come. This elegant, yet sturdily constructed butter dish exudes a harmonious blend of sophistication and functionality, making it the ideal addition to your kitchen.

Elegant Flip-Top Butter Dish with Spreader

Say hello to the versatile Kitchen Flip-top Butter Dish, a delightful addition to any countertop that keeps your butter soft and easy to spread. This ivory beauty features a convenient flip-top lid that not only protects your butter but also keeps your countertops clean. Suitable for daily use, it’s dishwasher safe and can hold two sticks of butter, making it a dream come true for butter enthusiasts. With its matching spreader, you’ll enjoy the perfect spread every time. And don’t worry, its hidden no-mess edge ensures a tidy cutting experience. Say goodbye to hard butter and hello to effortless spreading with the Kitchen Flip-top Butter Dish.

Elegant White Ceramic Butter Dish

This charming butter dish by Creative Co-op adds a splash of farmhouse-style charm to any kitchen counter. Fashioned from high-quality stoneware, it features a lovely vintage design, adorned with intricate line drawings of a farm landscape, flowers, and the wording “spread the love. ” Holds two sticks of butter nicely, with a lid that keeps things tidy and easy to lift. A sturdy, functional addition that is also microwave and dishwasher safe.

Better Dish Flip-Top Butter Dish (Red)

Introducing the Better Dish Flip-Top Butter Dish - a butter lover’s dream. This sturdy and easy-to-use dish features a clever flip-top lid that keeps your countertops and tables clean, while protecting the butter inside. It can hold a variety of butter sizes, including up to 2 sticks, and is made from shatterproof, BPA-free plastic with a non-slip base for added convenience. Measuring approximately 9 x 5.5 x 3 inches, this compact design is perfect for any kitchen, making it an essential butter-keeping accessory. Plus, it’s even dishwasher safe for added convenience! Don’t miss out on this fantastic product; give it a try and experience the benefits for yourself!

Elegant Glass Butter Tray

Add a touch of vintage charm to your kitchen with this beautiful glass-covered butter dish. Measuring in at 6.5 inches wide, 4.75 inches deep, and 3 inches high, it’s the perfect size for holding multiple butter sticks. The removable cover not only adds an elegant touch but also protects your butter when placed on the table or countertop. This unique butter dish will effortlessly blend with your existing kitchen decor and create memories with loved ones.

KITCHENDAO Premium Butter Holder for Countertop and Fridge

Make your butter storage a breeze with KITCHENDAO’s Airtight Butter Dish. With its spacious capacity large enough to hold 2 sticks of butter, it’s perfect for all your east, west, and European butter styles. The dish is designed with an airtight sealing ring that ensures your butter remains fresh and soft. Plus, its easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe feature adds a touch of convenience to your daily routine. The butter holder comes with side ramps that make scooping and scraping effortless, and it even has measurement marks and an anti-slip bottom for added precision and stability. Say goodbye to spoiled butter and hello to the perfectly preserved taste, all in style.

Kate Spade Deco Dot Stoneware Butter Dish - Covered and Stylish

Infuse sophistication into your culinary affairs with the chic Kate Spade Deco Dot Covered Butter Dish. Featuring a robust stoneware construction, this butter dish showcases an eye-catching polka dot pattern that plays perfectly with your table’s aesthetic. Measuring approximately 8 inches long, it is the ideal size for serving delectable spreads alongside a beautifully laid-out dining display. Bask in its durability and hassle-free maintenance, as it is both microwave and dishwasher safe, perfect for contemporary kitchens. This butter dish has rapidly become a popular choice for its allure, sturdiness, and trendy design, making it an essential addition to your daily dining experience.

White Smart House Inc. Ceramic Butter Set

This sleek and stylish Butter Dish Set by Smart House Inc offers a sophisticated touch to your kitchen countertop. Despite its compact size, it comfortably holds a single stick of butter, perfect for everyday use. Constructed from high-quality ceramic, it adds a modern flair with its elegant design and intricate craftsmanship. The lid is equipped with a convenient handle for hassle-free lifting, and its easy-to-lift design ensures a secure fit. Take your kitchen game to the next level with this versatile, easy-to-clean, and dishwasher-safe ceramic Butter Dish Set.

Vintage Glass Butter Tray with Cover

JoyJolt’s vintage glassware-inspired butter dish offers a touch of elegance to your culinary space. With a sturdy design and vintage handle, it’s perfect for adding a touch of class to any table. Available in a 4-ounce size, this butter dish keeps your butter fresh while adding a touch of charm to your kitchen.

Threshold Elegant Ceramic Butter Dish

Elevate your butter storage game with the Threshold Stoneware Hand-Lettered Butter Dish. This charming design showcases a simple yet striking hand-lettered “Butter” inscription on the cover. Made of durable stoneware, it’s microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and ready to keep your butter fresh and at the perfect spreadable consistency. Whether you leave it on the counter or store it away, its timeless appeal brings a touch of elegance to any home.

Le Creuset Heritage Butter Dish for Stylish Storage and Easy Access

Keep your butter fresh and ready for use with the Le Creuset Heritage Butter Dish in Cherry Red. Designed with everyday use in mind, this stoneware dish features a stunning, nonporous, non-reactive glaze that is resistant to chips, scratches, and stains. The virtually nonstick glazed surface ensures easy cleanup and durability, while the scalloped side handles showcase the dish’s creamy interior. The butter dish is safe for use in the freezer, dishwasher, and with metal utensils, making it a practical and stylish addition to your kitchen or dining room.

Coton Colors Ruffle Butter Dish: Signature White Design

Add a touch of elegance to your spread with the Coton Colors Signature Ruffle Domed Butter Dish. Handcrafted with a delightful flair, this dishwasher-safe dish keeps butter fresh and cool. The timeless design and artful creation make it a celebration-worthy addition to your table.

Better Homes & Gardens Large Capacity Porcelain Butter Dish

Introducing the Better Homes & Gardens Embossed Butter Dish, a stylish addition to any kitchen. Crafted from durable porcelain and featuring an acacia lid, this butter dish holds up to 4 standard American sticks, ensuring you always have butter on hand for your culinary creations. Users rave about its large capacity, attractive design, and easy-to-clean surface. Add this elegant butter dish to your collection for a touch of sophistication and convenience in your everyday cooking routine.

KIVY Glass Butter Dish: Airtight Lid for Soft Butter Storage

Keep your butter fresh and easily accessible with the KIVY glass butter dish. The airtight lid ensures the butter stays soft whether it’s on your countertop or in the refrigerator. Made of sustainable bamboo and dishwasher-safe borosilicate glass, this modern butter holder is a stylish and eco-friendly choice for your kitchen.

Premium Yellow Butter Tray Ceramic Lidded Butter Dish

Indulge in the charm of this adorable, nostalgic butter dish from Boston Warehouse. Crafted with premium ceramic, this lidded butter dish adds a touch of elegance and allure to any countertop or table. Measuring at 6.61 x 3.15 x 3.03 inches, this rectangular butter dish makes it perfect for a wide array of dishes. Whether it’s scones, toast or waffles, this captivating butter dish is sure to elevate your culinary experience.

Fox Run Butter Tray

Bring a touch of elegance to your breakfast spread with the Fox Run Butter Dish. Featuring a charming, sturdy white stoneware construction, this classic piece allows you to serve fresh butter straight from the fridge. The covered butter dish not only keeps the butter fresh, but also provides a seamless spread at room temperature for effortless dining. Its timeless design fits perfectly with your existing dinnerware, while the dishwasher-safe convenience ensures a spotless kitchen.

Premium Glass Butter Dish with Lid and Easy Grip Handle

Transform your kitchen displays with the elegant Bezrat Glass Butter Dish. Its timeless design, complete with a classic all-glass tray and a graceful knob on the cover, adds a touch of sophistication to any setting. With an easy-grip handle and a sturdy dishwasher-safe construction, this butter dish keeps food fresh and safe while offering a streamlined, effortless experience. Enjoy a beautifully designed and practical addition to your kitchen with this premium butter dish.

Buyer’s Guide

Are you looking for a practical and elegant solution to store your butter? A butter tray is a staple in many kitchens, adding both functionality and style. Read on to learn about the key features, considerations, and general advice when purchasing a butter tray.

Materials and Durability

A good butter tray should be made from heat-resistant and durable materials, such as ceramic, glass, or silicone. Ceramic and glass butter trays tend to be more elegant in design, while silicone trays are more practical and easy to clean. Look for trays that have a non-stick surface, ensuring easy removal of the butter.

Size and Shape

Consider the size and shape of the butter tray to best suit your needs. Butter trays come in various sizes, from small to large, and can be round, rectangular, or tapered. A tapered shape allows butter to slide out easily, while a larger size can accommodate more butter. Choose a size and shape that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing for your kitchen.

Design and Style

Butter trays come in various designs, from traditional to contemporary. Consider the design and style of your kitchen when selecting a butter tray. A more traditional design may blend well with older kitchens, while a contemporary design will complement modern kitchens. Some butter trays also feature patterns or decorative elements, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen.

Maintenance

Choose a butter tray that is easy to clean and maintain. Materials like silicone and ceramic are non-porous and non-absorbent, making them easy to clean and resistant to stains. Regular cleaning will also help extend the life of your butter tray. Look for trays with removable covers or lids to make cleaning even more convenient.

FAQ

What is a butter tray?

A butter tray, also known as a butter dish or butter crock, is a container designed to hold and store butter at room temperature. It is typically made from ceramic, glass, or porcelain, and is meant to keep butter fresh by slowing the spoilage process. The butter tray usually has a tightly sealed lid to prevent air from entering and spoiling the butter.

Butter trays come in various sizes and designs, making them a convenient and attractive option for dining rooms, kitchen tables, or breakfast buffets. Some butter trays also feature fun and creative designs to add a touch of style to any table setting. Many butter trays are dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean and maintain.

How should I store butter in a butter tray?

Storing butter in a butter tray is easy and straightforward. First, remove the butter from its packaging and let it sit at room temperature for an hour or two, until it reaches a soft and spreadable consistency. Once softened, place the butter in the butter tray, taking care not to pack it too tightly.

Make sure you close the lid tightly after placing the butter in the tray to keep out air and moisture. If the butter tray comes with a separate inner lid, use it to create an extra seal and preserve the butter’s freshness. Store the butter tray in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and ideally at a temperature between 35°F and 70°F (1.6°C and 21.1°C) to ensure optimal preservation.

Can I freeze butter in a butter tray?

Butter trays are not designed for freezing, as the lid is not adequately sealed to prevent air from entering the container. Freezing butter in a butter tray could lead to frost damage to the butter and a less than satisfactory texture once thawed. If you need to store butter for an extended period, consider using a properly sealed plastic container or freezing it in smaller portions inside reusable freezer bags.

If you do end up freezing butter in a butter tray, it will be safe to store for up to three months. However, it would be best to transfer the frozen butter to a separate storage container before defrosting, as the butter tray may crack or break when the frozen butter expands and contracts as it thaws.

How do I clean a butter tray?

To clean a butter tray, first remove any leftover butter and wash the tray by hand using warm, soapy water. For stubborn stains, you can soak the tray in warm water with a bit of dish soap for a few hours before scrubbing off the residue with a sponge or soft-bristled brush. You may also use a mild abrasive cleaner to remove tough stains if needed.

After cleaning, rinse the butter tray thoroughly to remove all soap residue. You can also run it through the dishwasher if it’s dishwasher safe, following the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care and maintenance. Once dry, you’ll be ready to use the butter tray again for your next butter storage needs.

What are some popular butter tray designs?

There are numerous butter tray designs available on the market, catering to different tastes and styles. Some popular options include traditional butter crocks made from ceramic, glass, or porcelain, which often feature intricate patterns, fun shapes, and cute animal or flower decorations. Other popular designs consist of elegant, modern glass or ceramic butter trays with clean lines and sophisticated finishes.

There are also butter trays made from recycled materials, as well as unique novelty designs, such as shaped animal-themed butter trays or trays with built-in butter spreaders, making them fun and functional additions to any household. With so many butter tray options available, you’re sure to find one that matches your personal style and fits your kitchen needs.

Is a butter tray really necessary?

While a butter tray isn’t absolutely essential for storing butter, it can be incredibly convenient and beneficial for a number of reasons. A properly sealed butter tray can help maintain the freshness of the butter, preventing spoilage and extending the time between when the butter was last churned and when it’s ready for use. This can help reduce waste and save money in the long run.

Butter trays also serve a practical purpose: they make it easy to distribute butter onto your toast, bagels, or other foods without the need for a messy knife, finger, or spreading tool. Additionally, some butter trays can even help prevent spoilage by offering an airtight seal to keep out contaminants that may cause the butter to go rancid or develop an off-flavor. In summary, while not strictly necessary, a butter tray can certainly offer convenience, freshness, and ease of use.

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