What is the purpose of a butter dish?<\/h2>
Butter dishes were created so that diners could have spreadable butter at meal times \u2013 fresh out of a cold pantry or the fridge, butter is hard and almost unspreadable.\u00a0<\/p>
By keeping it in a dish, the butter stays at room temperature while the cover protects the butter from dust, flies and other elements that cause the butter \u2018go off\u2019.\u00a0<\/p>
As well as their practical properties, butter dishes are often beautiful, decorative tableware items \u2013 think brands like Spode and Burleigh, who offer tableware collections with patterns that can be mixed and matched.\u00a0<\/p>
What is the difference between a butter bell and a butter dish?<\/h2>– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>A butter bell, also commonly known as a butter crock, requires the use of water to protect the butter from the air, in turn keeping it fresher for a longer period of time.\u00a0<\/p>
A butter bell has a lid with a tube-like structure attached, where the butter is stored, and the base (or crock) is where water is stored.<\/p>
Do butter dishes keep butter fresh?<\/h2>
Storing your butter in a dish will protect it from odours and bacteria (and bugs in the summer months).\u00a0<\/p>
It is advised that you only store it this way for up to two weeks, but if you choose a dish that can be kept in the fridge and brought out only when needed, it will last longer.<\/p>
Best butter dishes 2024<\/h2>Ceramic Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from The Fine Cheese Co. (\u00a330)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/The-Fine-Cheese-Co-Ceramic-Butter-Dish.jpg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>This dish is the perfect addition to any farmhouse table. The ceramic lid has a charming cow-shaped handle and a traditional blue-and-white design covering the sides \u2013 a wonderful choice if you\u2019re searching for something timeless.<\/p>
Faye Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Anthropologie (\u00a324)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Faye](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Faye-butter-dish.png\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>Handcrafted from durable stoneware, the Faye butter dish combines intricate floral detailing with a pretty sky-blue background, and is finished with a glaze for a glossy shine.<\/p>
Sophie Conran for Portmeirion Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from John Lewis (\u00a329)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Sophie-Conran-for-Portmeirion-Butter-Dish.jpg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>For something simple, this porcelain dish is part of a collection designed by Sophie Conran for Portmeirion. Sticking with a classic design, this dish has a white glazed finish and features a subtle rippled design.\u00a0<\/p>
Blue Arden Rectangular Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Burleigh (\u00a390)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Blue-Arden-Rectangular-Butter-Dish.jpg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>There are few brands more timeless than Burleigh, and its recognisable Blue Arden collection includes a beautiful butter dish. The blue-and-white floral design covers the entirety of the dish \u2013 this will look lovely as part of a few pieces from the same collection or mixed with clashing patterns and colours.<\/p>
Fortnum\u2019s Provisions Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Fortnum & Mason (\u00a386)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Fortnums-Provisions-Butter-Dish-1024x1024.jpeg?fit=800%2C800\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>If neutral tones are more your bag, Fortnum\u2019s butter dish from its Provisions range might pique your interest. The glazed earthenware dish features a vintage-style illustration inspired by the brand’s Stilton jar, and the entire range has been created by artisans in Burleigh\u2019s factory in Middleport.\u00a0<\/p>
Rebecca Williams Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Toast (\u00a335)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Rebecca-Williams-Butter-Dish.jpg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>West Sussex-based potter Rebecca Williams has thrown these lovely round butter dishes. A more unique take on the usual dish, the round shape looks seamless paired with the soft matte glaze.<\/p>
Blue Italian Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Spode (\u00a333)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Spode-Blue-Italian-Butter-Dish.jpeg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>One of the most well-known brands for beautiful blue-and-white tableware, Spode\u2019s Blue Italian<\/a> butter dish doesn\u2019t disappoint. We particularly love the shape of this one, taking on a longer, narrower form, with the design carefully placed on the dish\u2019s lid and sides.<\/p>Black Toast Half a Pound Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Emma Bridgewater (\u00a340)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Black-Toast-Half-a-Pound-Butter-Dish.jpg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>This butter box by Emma Bridgewater oozes vintage charm. The cream earthenware dish is decorated with light-hearted quotes \u2013 on the sides it reads \u2018Half a Pound of Best Butter\u2019 and on the lid reads \u2018Don\u2019t Let The Cat Get The Butter\u2019.<\/p>
Blue Asiatic Pheasants Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Burleigh (\u00a390)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Blue-Asiatic-Pheasants-Butter-Dish-1024x728.jpg?fit=800%2C569\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>The more subtle colours of this Burleigh butter dish will surely appeal to those with an eye for more of a pared-back style. The pale blue beautifully complements the white base, and the flower and pheasant decoration leaves much to admire.<\/p>
Peter Bowen Art Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Glassette (\u00a352)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Peter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Screenshot-2024-03-12-at-15.36.57.png\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>This unique handmade butter dish has a speckled yellow glaze and will keep your butter soft, fresh and easily spreadable. A perfect and unique gift for your home.<\/p>
Luna Bakeware Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Anthropologie (\u00a320)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Anthropologie-Luna-Bakeware-Butter-Dish-1024x776.jpg?fit=800%2C606\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>With its colourful floral design and pretty scalloped-edge detail, this dish will make a pretty addition to your kitchenalia. Made from stoneware and carefully hand-painted, it will fit in perfectly with your antique and vintage pieces.<\/p>
Orla Kiely China Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from John Lewis (\u00a324)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Orla-Kiely-China-Butter-Dish.jpg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>Lean into a more retro style with this dish by Orla Kiely. Decorated with the brand\u2019s classic floral design in a yellow and green colourway, and topped with a wooden lid designed with a flower motif \u2013 it\u2019s certainly a statement piece.<\/p>
Hillcrest Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Soho Home (\u00a365)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Hillcrest-Butter-Dish.jpg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>Rustic in appearance and organic in form, this dish has been handcrafted in Italy using Tuscan stoneware. Round in shape with decorative embellishments, it will fit in perfectly with traditional farmhouse interiors.<\/p>
Glass-Cloche Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from H&M Home (\u00a314.99)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Glass-Cloche-Butter-Dish-683x1024.jpeg?fit=683%2C1024\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>If you prefer being able to see exactly how much butter is left in your dish, this glass lidded design is a lovely choice. The mango wood base complements the clear glass, offering a balance of traditional and contemporary style.<\/p>
Le Creuset Stoneware Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Le Creuset (\u00a340)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
![\"Butter](\"https:\/\/c02.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/42\/2023\/07\/Le-Creuset-Stoneware-Butter-Dish.jpg\")
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>When it comes to classic cookware brands, Le Creuset instantly comes to mind. This stoneware dish comes in 18 different colours, including this attractive heritage green. It\u2019s a hardy option, too \u2013 it can be stored in the chillier temperatures of your fridge and popped in the microwave to warm the butter inside.<\/p>
More content from Homes & Antiques:<\/h2>
A butter bell, also commonly known as a butter crock, requires the use of water to protect the butter from the air, in turn keeping it fresher for a longer period of time.\u00a0<\/p>
A butter bell has a lid with a tube-like structure attached, where the butter is stored, and the base (or crock) is where water is stored.<\/p>
Do butter dishes keep butter fresh?<\/h2>
Storing your butter in a dish will protect it from odours and bacteria (and bugs in the summer months).\u00a0<\/p>
It is advised that you only store it this way for up to two weeks, but if you choose a dish that can be kept in the fridge and brought out only when needed, it will last longer.<\/p>
Best butter dishes 2024<\/h2>Ceramic Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from The Fine Cheese Co. (\u00a330)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>This dish is the perfect addition to any farmhouse table. The ceramic lid has a charming cow-shaped handle and a traditional blue-and-white design covering the sides \u2013 a wonderful choice if you\u2019re searching for something timeless.<\/p>
Faye Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Anthropologie (\u00a324)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>Handcrafted from durable stoneware, the Faye butter dish combines intricate floral detailing with a pretty sky-blue background, and is finished with a glaze for a glossy shine.<\/p>
Sophie Conran for Portmeirion Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from John Lewis (\u00a329)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>For something simple, this porcelain dish is part of a collection designed by Sophie Conran for Portmeirion. Sticking with a classic design, this dish has a white glazed finish and features a subtle rippled design.\u00a0<\/p>
Blue Arden Rectangular Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Burleigh (\u00a390)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>There are few brands more timeless than Burleigh, and its recognisable Blue Arden collection includes a beautiful butter dish. The blue-and-white floral design covers the entirety of the dish \u2013 this will look lovely as part of a few pieces from the same collection or mixed with clashing patterns and colours.<\/p>
Fortnum\u2019s Provisions Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Fortnum & Mason (\u00a386)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>If neutral tones are more your bag, Fortnum\u2019s butter dish from its Provisions range might pique your interest. The glazed earthenware dish features a vintage-style illustration inspired by the brand’s Stilton jar, and the entire range has been created by artisans in Burleigh\u2019s factory in Middleport.\u00a0<\/p>
Rebecca Williams Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Toast (\u00a335)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>West Sussex-based potter Rebecca Williams has thrown these lovely round butter dishes. A more unique take on the usual dish, the round shape looks seamless paired with the soft matte glaze.<\/p>
Blue Italian Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Spode (\u00a333)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>One of the most well-known brands for beautiful blue-and-white tableware, Spode\u2019s Blue Italian<\/a> butter dish doesn\u2019t disappoint. We particularly love the shape of this one, taking on a longer, narrower form, with the design carefully placed on the dish\u2019s lid and sides.<\/p>Black Toast Half a Pound Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Emma Bridgewater (\u00a340)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>This butter box by Emma Bridgewater oozes vintage charm. The cream earthenware dish is decorated with light-hearted quotes \u2013 on the sides it reads \u2018Half a Pound of Best Butter\u2019 and on the lid reads \u2018Don\u2019t Let The Cat Get The Butter\u2019.<\/p>
Blue Asiatic Pheasants Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Burleigh (\u00a390)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>The more subtle colours of this Burleigh butter dish will surely appeal to those with an eye for more of a pared-back style. The pale blue beautifully complements the white base, and the flower and pheasant decoration leaves much to admire.<\/p>
Peter Bowen Art Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Glassette (\u00a352)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>This unique handmade butter dish has a speckled yellow glaze and will keep your butter soft, fresh and easily spreadable. A perfect and unique gift for your home.<\/p>
Luna Bakeware Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Anthropologie (\u00a320)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>With its colourful floral design and pretty scalloped-edge detail, this dish will make a pretty addition to your kitchenalia. Made from stoneware and carefully hand-painted, it will fit in perfectly with your antique and vintage pieces.<\/p>
Orla Kiely China Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from John Lewis (\u00a324)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>Lean into a more retro style with this dish by Orla Kiely. Decorated with the brand\u2019s classic floral design in a yellow and green colourway, and topped with a wooden lid designed with a flower motif \u2013 it\u2019s certainly a statement piece.<\/p>
Hillcrest Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Soho Home (\u00a365)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>Rustic in appearance and organic in form, this dish has been handcrafted in Italy using Tuscan stoneware. Round in shape with decorative embellishments, it will fit in perfectly with traditional farmhouse interiors.<\/p>
Glass-Cloche Butter Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from H&M Home (\u00a314.99)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>If you prefer being able to see exactly how much butter is left in your dish, this glass lidded design is a lovely choice. The mango wood base complements the clear glass, offering a balance of traditional and contemporary style.<\/p>
Le Creuset Stoneware Dish<\/h3>- Buy now<\/strong> from Le Creuset (\u00a340)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure>When it comes to classic cookware brands, Le Creuset instantly comes to mind. This stoneware dish comes in 18 different colours, including this attractive heritage green. It\u2019s a hardy option, too \u2013 it can be stored in the chillier temperatures of your fridge and popped in the microwave to warm the butter inside.<\/p>
More content from Homes & Antiques:<\/h2>
- Buy now<\/strong> from The Fine Cheese Co. (\u00a330)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> This dish is the perfect addition to any farmhouse table. The ceramic lid has a charming cow-shaped handle and a traditional blue-and-white design covering the sides \u2013 a wonderful choice if you\u2019re searching for something timeless.<\/p>
Faye Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Anthropologie (\u00a324)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> Handcrafted from durable stoneware, the Faye butter dish combines intricate floral detailing with a pretty sky-blue background, and is finished with a glaze for a glossy shine.<\/p>
Sophie Conran for Portmeirion Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from John Lewis (\u00a329)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> For something simple, this porcelain dish is part of a collection designed by Sophie Conran for Portmeirion. Sticking with a classic design, this dish has a white glazed finish and features a subtle rippled design.\u00a0<\/p>
Blue Arden Rectangular Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Burleigh (\u00a390)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> There are few brands more timeless than Burleigh, and its recognisable Blue Arden collection includes a beautiful butter dish. The blue-and-white floral design covers the entirety of the dish \u2013 this will look lovely as part of a few pieces from the same collection or mixed with clashing patterns and colours.<\/p>
Fortnum\u2019s Provisions Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Fortnum & Mason (\u00a386)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> If neutral tones are more your bag, Fortnum\u2019s butter dish from its Provisions range might pique your interest. The glazed earthenware dish features a vintage-style illustration inspired by the brand’s Stilton jar, and the entire range has been created by artisans in Burleigh\u2019s factory in Middleport.\u00a0<\/p>
Rebecca Williams Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Toast (\u00a335)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> West Sussex-based potter Rebecca Williams has thrown these lovely round butter dishes. A more unique take on the usual dish, the round shape looks seamless paired with the soft matte glaze.<\/p>
Blue Italian Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Spode (\u00a333)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> One of the most well-known brands for beautiful blue-and-white tableware, Spode\u2019s Blue Italian<\/a> butter dish doesn\u2019t disappoint. We particularly love the shape of this one, taking on a longer, narrower form, with the design carefully placed on the dish\u2019s lid and sides.<\/p>
Black Toast Half a Pound Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Emma Bridgewater (\u00a340)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> This butter box by Emma Bridgewater oozes vintage charm. The cream earthenware dish is decorated with light-hearted quotes \u2013 on the sides it reads \u2018Half a Pound of Best Butter\u2019 and on the lid reads \u2018Don\u2019t Let The Cat Get The Butter\u2019.<\/p>
Blue Asiatic Pheasants Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Burleigh (\u00a390)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> The more subtle colours of this Burleigh butter dish will surely appeal to those with an eye for more of a pared-back style. The pale blue beautifully complements the white base, and the flower and pheasant decoration leaves much to admire.<\/p>
Peter Bowen Art Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Glassette (\u00a352)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> This unique handmade butter dish has a speckled yellow glaze and will keep your butter soft, fresh and easily spreadable. A perfect and unique gift for your home.<\/p>
Luna Bakeware Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Anthropologie (\u00a320)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> With its colourful floral design and pretty scalloped-edge detail, this dish will make a pretty addition to your kitchenalia. Made from stoneware and carefully hand-painted, it will fit in perfectly with your antique and vintage pieces.<\/p>
Orla Kiely China Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from John Lewis (\u00a324)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> Lean into a more retro style with this dish by Orla Kiely. Decorated with the brand\u2019s classic floral design in a yellow and green colourway, and topped with a wooden lid designed with a flower motif \u2013 it\u2019s certainly a statement piece.<\/p>
Hillcrest Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Soho Home (\u00a365)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> Rustic in appearance and organic in form, this dish has been handcrafted in Italy using Tuscan stoneware. Round in shape with decorative embellishments, it will fit in perfectly with traditional farmhouse interiors.<\/p>
Glass-Cloche Butter Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from H&M Home (\u00a314.99)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> If you prefer being able to see exactly how much butter is left in your dish, this glass lidded design is a lovely choice. The mango wood base complements the clear glass, offering a balance of traditional and contemporary style.<\/p>
Le Creuset Stoneware Dish<\/h3>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Le Creuset (\u00a340)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
– –<\/figcaption><\/figure> When it comes to classic cookware brands, Le Creuset instantly comes to mind. This stoneware dish comes in 18 different colours, including this attractive heritage green. It\u2019s a hardy option, too \u2013 it can be stored in the chillier temperatures of your fridge and popped in the microwave to warm the butter inside.<\/p>
More content from Homes & Antiques:<\/h2>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Le Creuset (\u00a340)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from H&M Home (\u00a314.99)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Soho Home (\u00a365)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from John Lewis (\u00a324)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Anthropologie (\u00a320)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Glassette (\u00a352)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Burleigh (\u00a390)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Emma Bridgewater (\u00a340)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Spode (\u00a333)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Toast (\u00a335)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Fortnum & Mason (\u00a386)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Burleigh (\u00a390)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from John Lewis (\u00a329)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>
- Buy now<\/strong> from Anthropologie (\u00a324)<\/a><\/li><\/ul>