One stick of butter in the United States weighs 4 ounces (or 113 grams).
This is a standard measurement, so when a recipe calls for “1 stick of butter,” it refers to 4 ounces.
In the United States, butter is typically sold in sticks, and each stick has a standard weight. Here’s the breakdown:
1 Stick of Butter = 4 Ounces
Packaging and Measurements:
- Weight: Each stick of butter weighs 4 ounces (113 grams).
- Volume: One stick of butter is equivalent to 1/2 cup (since there are 8 ounces in a cup).
- Calories: A single stick of butter contains roughly 810 calories (this can vary slightly depending on the brand).
- Tablespoons: Since 1 stick equals 1/2 cup, and there are 16 tablespoons in a cup, a stick of butter equals 8 tablespoons.
Why this Standard:
The standardization of butter in stick form (especially in the U.S.) dates back to the early 20th century. This convenient packaging allowed for easier measurement and portion control. The 4-ounce stick is a consistent measurement in most recipes, which helps home cooks and chefs alike.
Other Countries:
- In countries like the UK, butter is often sold in blocks or portions that don’t follow the same stick format, and conversions may differ depending on local packaging norms.
So, whenever you’re baking or cooking, and you see a recipe calling for “1 stick of butter,” you know it equals 4 ounces or 1/2 cup.
