Butter Crocks and Bells

Individual 2 1/2" tall butter crocks from Sur La Table ($12.96). Not a water-sealed bell, but pretty darn cute.

There is something about covered butter dishes that screams institutional to me. So I eschew them in favor of an uncovered stick on an appetizer plate that wanders aimlessly from shelf to shelf in the fridge, picking up crumbs along the way and perpetually in danger of toppling. This is not working. Since I love soft, spreadable butter, it’s time to go the butter crock or bell route.

Here’s how a butter bell works:

The unique design keeps butter at the perfect “spreading” consistency by reflecting outside heat while insulating and cooling the butter. Flavor and freshness is protected by an airtight seal of water at the base of the crock.

Proper maintenance: Water should be changed out every three days. Replace existing water in the base with fresh, cold water. The crock should be stored away from heat or sunlight.

How do you store your butter?

Butter Bell Bistro Crock ($21.18)

Mini Butter Bells, set of 4 ($28.95)

Emile Henry Butter Pot ($32.95)

Le Creuset Butter Crock ($29.99)

James Sloss Pottery Butter Dish ($22.95)

French butter dish on etsy ($44)

French Butter crock on etsy ($45)