what is a fast way to soften butter?
 Set the butter over a warm water bath if you're in a real hurry. Pour a few cups of very hot (just below boiling) water into a double boiler or a sauce pan with a metal bowl nested inside.Put the butter over the water bath and allow to soften.Keep an eye on it so the butter doesn't start to melt.A few minutes on the counter and the butter will be up to room temperature. 