Allow the butter to come to room temperature: Take the butter out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes, or until it's soft and easy to work with.

Prepare the garlic and herbs: Mince the garlic cloves finely, and chop the fresh herbs of your choice. You can use one type of herb or a combination of herbs, depending on your preference.

Combine the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and optional lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper to taste.

Mix well: Using a fork or a spoon, thoroughly mix the ingredients together until the garlic, herbs, and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the butter.

Shape the butter: You can shape the compound butter in a few ways. You can place the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap, roll it into a log shape, and twist the ends to seal it. Alternatively, you can scoop the butter into a ramekin or a small container and smooth the top.

Chill or use immediately: If you're not using the compound butter right away, wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it. The flavors will meld together as it chills. It can be stored in the refrigerator for a week or frozen for longer-term storage. When using from the refrigerator, allow it to soften a bit before spreading or melting it on hot dishes.

Serve and enjoy: Compound garlic herb butter is a wonderful addition to a variety of dishes. Use it to top grilled steaks, roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, or on a slice of fresh bread. You can get creative and experiment with different herbs and seasonings to suit your tastes and complement your favorite dishes.