I use a Butter Bell, the butter is always perfectly spreadable. To make your own, use a small condiment size bowl and pack a cube of softened butter into bowl then turn it upside down into a larger bowl with about 1/2 to 3/4 inch of water ( just enough to make a water seal but not overflow). The water keeps the butter fresh and soft. I have found Butter Bells at specialty kitchen/gourmet shops in shopping malls.