How Long Does Butter Keep in the Refrigerator? Let's Find Out

Butter is a kitchen staple, but it doesn’t last forever, even in the refrigerator. How long can you keep it around before it goes bad? In this post, we’ll dive into how long butter keeps in the fridge, how to store it properly, and how to tell if it’s gone bad. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone who just loves butter, this article will help you get the most out of your butter and avoid unnecessary waste.

How Long Does Butter Last in the Refrigerator?

You might be wondering, how long does butter really last in the refrigerator? The answer can vary depending on a few factors like the type of butter and how it’s stored. Typically, butter lasts for about 1 to 3 months in the refrigerator when stored properly. Unsalted butter, in particular, tends to have a shorter shelf life compared to salted butter because it doesn’t have the added preservatives that help extend its freshness.

While it’s important to check the expiration date on the packaging, butter usually stays fresh for some time beyond that date if it’s kept in good conditions. If stored in a cool, airtight container and away from strong-smelling foods like onions or garlic, butter can stay delicious for longer. The fridge’s temperature plays a big role here—anything warmer than the recommended storage temperature can cause the butter to spoil much faster.

Types of Butter and Their Shelf Life

Not all butter is the same, and different types have different shelf lives. Let’s break down the two main types of butter and their general shelf lives:

Salted Butter: Salted butter tends to last longer in the fridge because salt acts as a preservative. It can last around 3 months or even a bit longer if stored properly.
Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter has a shorter shelf life, usually about 1 to 2 months. Without the salt to help preserve it, it is more likely to go rancid quicker.
Clarified Butter (Ghee): Clarified butter, or ghee, has a longer shelf life since the milk solids and water have been removed, leaving only the pure fat. It can last for about 6 months in the fridge.
European-style Butter: This butter is churned differently and tends to have a higher fat content. It might last a little longer than regular butter but still falls under similar shelf-life guidelines (roughly 1-2 months for unsalted and 3 months for salted).

How to Store Butter Properly

To maximize butter’s shelf life, proper storage is key. Here are a few tips on how to store butter so it lasts as long as possible:

Keep It in Its Original Packaging: Butter is often wrapped in foil or paper, which helps protect it from air and light, both of which can cause it to spoil faster. If the butter is not in its original wrapping, store it in a butter dish with a lid.
Use Airtight Containers: If the butter is unwrapped or you’ve used part of a stick, placing it in an airtight container will help keep it fresh longer. This prevents exposure to air, which can lead to oxidation and spoilage.
Keep It in the Coldest Part of the Fridge: Butter should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator. This is typically at the back of the fridge, away from the door, which experiences temperature changes every time it’s opened.

Signs of Spoiled Butter

Just because butter lasts for a long time doesn’t mean it’s good forever. It’s important to keep an eye out for signs that butter may have gone bad. Here’s what to look for:

Smell: Fresh butter has a clean, creamy smell. If it smells sour, rancid, or off in any way, it’s time to toss it.
Color: Butter should be pale yellow. If you notice dark spots or any change in color, it’s a sign that the butter may be spoiled.
Texture: If the butter becomes hard and crumbly, or if it has an unusual, slimy texture, it’s no longer good to use.
Taste: If you’re unsure whether the butter is still good, taste a small amount. If it has a bitter, sour, or strange flavor, it’s time to discard it.

If you see any of these signs, it’s best to throw out the butter and grab a fresh stick. Butter can also pick up smells from other foods in the fridge, so always store it properly.

Can You Freeze Butter to Extend Its Shelf Life?

Freezing butter is a great way to extend its shelf life if you have more than you can use in the next few months. Butter freezes well and can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 6 months. Freezing is especially helpful if you buy butter in bulk or want to keep extra butter on hand for baking or cooking.

Here’s how to freeze butter the right way:

Wrap It Properly: If the butter is in a stick or block, leave it in its original packaging, or wrap it tightly in foil, plastic wrap, or wax paper. This will help protect it from freezer burn and keep the butter fresh.
Use an Airtight Container or Freezer Bag: After wrapping the butter, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will help keep moisture and air out, preserving its quality.
Label and Date: Always label the butter with the date it was frozen. This way, you’ll know how long it’s been in the freezer and can avoid keeping it too long.
Thawing: To thaw frozen butter, simply place it in the fridge overnight. Don’t thaw it at room temperature, as this can cause it to become too soft or spoil.

Can You Freeze Butter That’s Already Opened?

Yes! If you have opened butter and you won’t be using it soon, freezing is still a good option. Just be sure to wrap it properly to protect it from freezer burn and odors. If you freeze small portions of butter, you can take out only what you need, preventing waste.

Does Freezing Affect the Flavor or Texture of Butter?

Freezing butter generally doesn’t affect its flavor or texture. When it’s thawed, it should taste just as fresh as when it was first bought. The key is to make sure it’s properly wrapped to protect it from absorbing any other smells or moisture in the freezer.

Is It Safe to Eat Expired Butter?

If you’ve found butter that’s a few weeks or months past its expiration date, don’t panic right away. The expiration date is typically a “best by” date, not a hard-and-fast rule. If the butter has been stored correctly and shows no signs of spoilage, it should still be safe to eat. However, if there’s any doubt—such as off smells, discoloration, or a bad taste—then it’s better to be safe and toss it.

Sometimes, butter will be safe for a while after its expiration date, but it might not taste as fresh. If you notice a change in flavor or texture, it might be a sign that it’s best to discard it.

I hope this article helped you understand how long butter keeps in the refrigerator and how to store it properly. By following these tips, you can keep your butter fresh for longer and avoid any unnecessary waste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to leave butter out of the refrigerator?

It’s okay to leave butter out for short periods, like when you’re using it daily. However, it’s best to store it in the fridge long-term to keep it fresh.

Can butter be stored in a butter dish on the counter?

Yes, butter can be kept in a butter dish on the counter for a few days, but only if you plan to use it quickly. Be sure to store any extra in the fridge.

Do I need to wrap butter if it’s in a butter dish?

Yes, it’s a good idea to wrap the butter even if it’s in a butter dish. This helps to prevent it from absorbing other odors and keeps it fresh.

Is it safe to eat butter with white spots?

White spots on butter might be a sign of mold or moisture. It’s best to throw it away if you notice any unusual spots or texture changes.

Can I freeze butter after opening it?

Yes, you can freeze butter after opening it. Just wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag to keep it fresh.

Do I need to refrigerate clarified butter (ghee)?

Clarified butter (ghee) doesn’t need to be refrigerated, but it can be stored in the fridge for a longer shelf life. It will stay fresh for up to 6 months.

Is salted butter safer to leave out than unsalted butter?

Salted butter is safer to leave out for a short time because salt acts as a preservative. However, it’s always best to store butter in the fridge when not in use.

Can I use butter after its expiration date?

If the butter looks and smells fine, it’s usually okay to use after its expiration date. But if there are any signs of spoilage, it’s better to throw it away.