How Many Grams Is a Stick of Butter

When it comes to cooking and baking, butter is one of those universal ingredients that can make or break a recipe. Whether you’re perfecting flaky pastries, whipping up rich buttercream frosting, or sautéing vegetables to caramelized perfection, getting the measurement right is key. But here’s where things can get tricky—especially when recipes start throwing around weights like grams and ounces, or when you’re trying to convert between sticks, cups, and tablespoons. If you’ve ever paused mid-recipe to ask, “How many grams is a stick of butter?”—you’re not alone. This guide will take you through every detail of butter measurements and conversions, so you never have to second-guess again.

Butter Measurements in the U.S.

In the U.S., butter is typically sold in sticks wrapped in wax paper, with markings indicating tablespoons and cup equivalents. Each stick of butter weighs about 113 grams, which translates to 8 tablespoons or 1/2 cup. Four sticks of butter are usually packaged together, making up a total of 1 pound (454 grams).

This system works well if your recipe is written in cups or tablespoons. But what if you’re working with a recipe that calls for grams or ounces? Here’s the quick breakdown:

• 1 stick of butter = 113 grams = 4 ounces = 8 tablespoons
• 1/2 stick of butter = 57 grams = 2 ounces = 4 tablespoons
• 2 sticks of butter = 227 grams = 8 ounces = 1 cup
• 4 sticks of butter = 454 grams = 16 ounces = 2 cups (1 pound)

For recipes that measure butter in grams, like many European recipes, it’s always a good idea to have a kitchen scale on hand for precision.

Why is Butter Measured in Sticks?

The stick format of butter is a uniquely American feature, designed for convenience. Each stick is neatly wrapped, marked with measurements, and easy to use. This makes it simpler to portion out butter without needing a scale—ideal for the busy home cook or baker.

By contrast, European butter is often sold in blocks or bricks, which don’t have pre-measured markings. While this might seem less user-friendly, European butters, such as Irish butter, often have a higher fat content and richer flavor. If you’re using European butter in place of American butter, weighing it is the most reliable method to ensure accuracy.

How Many Grams is a Stick of Butter?

Let’s get straight to the point: a stick of butter is 113 grams. This weight is consistent across most brands of standard American butter. If you’re working with half a stick, you’re looking at 57 grams. For two sticks, it’s 227 grams. These measurements become critical when precision matters, such as in baking.

If you’re following a recipe that uses metric measurements, here’s how the conversion looks:

• 1 stick = 113 grams
• 2 sticks = 227 grams (1 cup)
• 4 sticks = 454 grams (1 pound)

Why Precision Matters in Baking

In baking, every gram counts. Unlike cooking, where you can often improvise or adjust ingredients on the fly, baking relies on precise ratios of fat, sugar, flour, and liquid. Using too much or too little butter can dramatically alter the texture and flavor of your baked goods.

For example:

• Too much butter can make cookies spread too thin and lose their shape.
• Too little butter can lead to dry, crumbly results.

Measuring butter by weight (grams) ensures consistency, especially when scaling recipes up or down. If your recipe calls for butter in grams but you only have sticks, a kitchen scale is your best friend. Simply place the butter on the scale and weigh it out to match the recipe.

Types of Butter and Their Impact on Measurements

Not all butter is created equal. While most American recipes are based on standard unsalted butter with an 80% fat content, there are variations you should know about:

1. Unsalted butter: Standard for baking, it gives you control over the salt in your recipe.
2. Salted butter: Adds flavor but can throw off recipes that rely on precise salt measurements.
3. European butter: With a higher fat content (82% or more), this butter is richer and creamier. It’s often sold in blocks weighing 250 grams, so adjustments may be needed when following U.S. recipes.

If you’re substituting one type of butter for another, keep the differences in fat and water content in mind. European butter can make pastries flakier, while standard American butter is perfectly fine for everyday recipes.

Measuring Butter Without a Wrapper

What happens if the wrapper on your butter stick is missing, or if you’re working with block butter that doesn’t have pre-measured markings? Here’s how you can still measure accurately:

• By volume: Use measuring spoons or cups. Remember, 1 stick equals 1/2 cup or 8 tablespoons.
• By weight: A kitchen scale is the most reliable method. If the butter is too soft to handle, chill it briefly before weighing.
• Using water displacement: For a quick hack, fill a measuring cup with water, subtract the amount of butter you need from the water measurement, and add butter until the water level rises to the correct volume.

Converting Butter for International Recipes

If you’re diving into French or Italian recipes, you’ll notice butter measurements often listed in grams. This can be confusing if you’re used to sticks or cups, but it’s a straightforward conversion once you know the basics.

For instance:

• 50 grams of butter = just under 1/2 stick
• 100 grams of butter = almost 1 stick
• 250 grams of butter = just over 2 sticks

Some recipes might also refer to butter in “knobs” or “tablespoons.” In these cases, weighing the butter is the most foolproof option.

Butter Substitutes

Running out of butter mid-recipe doesn’t have to spell disaster. Depending on the dish, there are several substitutes you can use:

• For baking: Unsweetened applesauce, mashed bananas, or Greek yogurt can replace butter in some recipes. The texture might change slightly, but these substitutes work well for muffins and cakes.
• For cooking: Olive oil or coconut oil can step in for butter when sautéing or pan-frying.
• For spreads: Cream cheese or nut butter makes a great alternative for toast or bagels.

Keep in mind that substitutes won’t always provide the same flavor or texture as butter, so use them thoughtfully.