Allow refrigerated butter sticks to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes until soft but not melted. This gradual warming helps maintain the butter’s structure. To speed up the process, cut chilled butter into tablespoons and microwave in short 5-10 second bursts, checking frequently.
Use the butter immediately once it becomes malleable and cool to the touch. Properly softened butter creams well with sugar and doesn’t tear delicate batters.