How Long Does Cheesecake Last In The Fridge? Storage Tips

Who doesn’t fancy a creamy cheesecake? Not me! The rich flavor creeps into every cool bite. The secret to this refreshing goodness is refrigeration. Yes, cheesecake must be refrigerated to bring out its best, but it won’t stay there forever, my friends. Let me share how long cheesecake lasts in the fridge and some storage tips with you!

How Long Is Cheesecake Good For In The Fridge?

Baked cheesecake can last for up to 5 days, while no-bake one can stay good for 7 days in the fridge. It’s because no-bake cheesecake doesn’t come with eggs, so they will be fresh for longer. 

Meanwhile, store-bought unopened cheesecake will last about 7 days or more in the refrigerator, thanks to their preservatives. Once opened, it’s best to consume it within 3 to 4 days.

Remember that the exact shelf life of cheesecake varies depending on the ingredients. I once got a cheesecake from a local bakery. But I slipped my mind and left the cake in the fridge for 5 days unnoticed. The smell was off when I opened it, so I didn’t risk eating it. 

Another time, I whipped up a no-bake, egg-free cheesecake, and it stayed happily in the fridge for more than a week without sacrificing its flavor.

Whether it’s baked, no-bake, store-bought, or leftover cheesecake, it must go to the fridge after cooling. Milk and eggs—the stars in most recipes—are packed with tons of moisture. This is not to mention perishable ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream. When left at room temperature, they create a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria. 

According to the USDA, the “danger zone” is 2 hours. In particular, when the cheesecake is stored at 40°F or more for over 2 hours, it should go to waste. If the temperature is from 90°F, you’d better toss it after 1 hour. 

This means you must refrigerate the cheesecake within 1 to 2 hours of baking. This ensures the cake is always kept at about 35°F. Past this time, bacteria begin feasting on the cake, and it might start to melt. Even when the taste is still fine, it’s better to be safe than sorry, my fellow bakers!

Can You Freeze Cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze cheesecake. Homemade cheesecake can stay fresh for only 1 to 2 months in the freezer, while store-bought cheesecake can last up to 6 months when frozen. However, remember that the taste of frozen cheesecake can’t live up to that of freshly baked ones. 

To freeze the cake, you should cover it with at least 2 layers of plastic wrap. Remember to press the wrap so it embraces every side tightly, whether individual cheesecake slices or an entire cake. This ensures no air is trapped inside, leaving no room for mold and bacterial growth.

Then, wrap it with another layer of aluminum foil and make sure it sits flat in the freezer. Whenever the mood strikes, just transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight.

Note: If you have adorned the cake with toppings, especially perishable ingredients like fresh fruit, I don’t recommend freezing it. It’s best to garnish the cake right before serving for the best flavor and visual appeal.

Cheesecake Storage Tips

Storing Guide

You can just put your delicate cheesecake in the fridge and leave it there uncovered. Trust me, no one wants to pull out their creamy dessert only to find it dried out or (worse) spoiled. 

The key to keeping your cheesecake at its best is proper storage. Whether you’ve baked a classic cheesecake or picked up a store-bought one, the best thing you can do is keep it in an airtight environment. 

Wrap the entire cheesecake (or slices) tightly with plastic wrap to keep out moisture and prevent the cake from absorbing any fridge odors. Then, place it in an airtight container for an extra layer of protection.

If you’ve made a no-bake cheesecake, remember that these can be more delicate than baked ones. Be extra careful with how you store them, as they tend to get soggy faster.

My Secrets To Making It Fresh For Longer

• Avoid frequent exposure: Constantly taking your decadent dessert in and out of the fridge speeds up spoilage. If you only need a slice, take what you need and get the rest back in the fridge as soon as possible.
• Wait on toppings: If you’re adding fruit or other fresh toppings, wait until you’re ready to serve. These toppings spoil faster than the cheesecake itself, and nobody wants soggy strawberries!
• Write the date: I always write down the date on the container when storing cheesecake, so I know exactly how long it’s been in the fridge.
• Slice before storing: If you’ve baked or bought a large cheesecake, slicing it before storing can be helpful. Pre-slicing allows you to only take out what you need without exposing the entire cake to air. Plus, individually wrapped slices freeze and thaw much faster!
• Use parchment paper: When wrapping the fresh cheesecake, place a layer of parchment paper between the cake and the plastic wrap. This will prevent the wrap from sticking to the top of the delicious dessert, preserving its indulgent texture and appearance.

FAQs

What Are Some Signs Of A Spoiled Cheesecake?

Some signs that a cheesecake has been past its prime are discoloration and pr green patches on the surface. This indicates the growth of molds or bacteria in the cake. Besides, if you notice an unpleasant, sour smell or liquids leaking from the cheesecake, that is a red flag.

How Long Can You Leave The Cheesecake On The Counter?

A cheesecake can sit out for 2 hours on the counter at best. If the temperature is higher than 90°F, it might start to melt just after 1 hour.

Conclusion

Cheesecake can stay fresh in the fridge for 5 to 7 days. However, it can expire sooner or later, depending on the ingredients and environment. When it comes to storage, the refrigerator is their best friend, ensuring the best taste and dense texture. While freezing is an option, the cake might lose its creamy flavor a bit.