I Tried the ‘Diabolical’ Butter Hack That’s Dividing the Internet

It seems every week there’s another viral internet hack to save you time in the kitchen. Some, such as freezing tomatoes before peeling and removing chicken tendons with a fork, are home runs. While others, such as greasing a pan with a cucumber, fall short.

Then, there are those that get the job done, but deeply divide the internet. This is the case with a recent time-saving breakfast tip on TikTok. The viral video has already garnered over two million views and elicited strong reactions from viewers, who seem to be divided in their opinion.

The Viral Buttered Toast Hack

One social media user found themselves in the middle of an internet debate after posting a TikTok video showing a unique method to butter toast. Rather than use a knife to cut a slice of butter and spread it over the toast, we see the TikToker rub a 1-pound butter stick directly on the bread. “I keep my butter in the fridge so it’s always rock solid, this feels like the best method for my toast,” they wrote in the video’s caption. 

According to Kerrygold, the refrigerator is the best place to store butter, but compared to counter storage, it does make it harder to spread. Directly putting the butter on the toast, however, allows you to add a thin layer quickly without waiting for the butter to warm up.

Unsurprisingly, viewers have strong opinions about the method. “Diabolical,” wrote one commenter. “I don’t know how I feel. It’s practical but the crumbs in the butter make me feel uneasy. It’s a good idea though,” added another. One person wanted to dislike the practice, but couldn’t help but appreciate it. “I want to be angry, but I lowkey think it’s genius,” they said. 

A few TikTokers pointed out how it’s potentially a health hazard, especially for those who live in households with mixed levels of gluten tolerance. Additionally, others were concerned that sticks of butter with toast pieces would eventually spoil. “The crumbs going moldy scares me,” said one concerned commenter. However, one user felt that it was not a true concern. “There’s crumbs in my toaster older than my youngest kids,” they joked.

So, would you try this shortcut? I’ll admit, I have done this before. And while I don’t make a habit out of it (and usually cut the crumb-covered end off before putting it away), it certainly does make things easier in a rush. If you’re a proud knife-skipper, though, you might consider using a butter brand that offers smaller portions, so you don’t leave the offending butter sticks in the refrigerator for too long.