Use softened butter at room temperature for easier mixing. Or, soften butter in the microwave on defrost (30% power) for 10 to 15 seconds. Check, then let stand. If necessary, microwave 5 to 10 seconds more, then let stand until ready to use.

Butter should be softened just until it yields to light pressure. Melted butter, though it produces cookies that brown evenly, isn’t recommended as it produces a flatter cookie with a shiny surface and a slightly crackled appearance.

Unsalted butter may be substituted for the same amount of salted butter. No other adjustments are necessary.