Butter crocks, I discovered, may be the answer—at least to the second predicament. Also called butter keepers, these cute little covered pots use a layer of water to keep butter soft and ready for the most delicate toast (e.g., lightly toasted challah).
We evaluated six butter crocks, including those from Crate & Barrel, Emile Henry, and Le Creuset, to see which ones are the easiest to use, the nicest to look at, and the best at keeping butter at the perfect consistency.
Dining and Cooking