Cheesecake is a delicious dessert that is often enjoyed at celebrations and special occasions. But how long does cheesecake last in the fridge? Is it something that can be stored for a few days or weeks, or does it need to be eaten right away?
In this article, we will answer those questions and provide some tips on how to store cheesecake so that it lasts as long as possible.
How Long Does Cheesecake Last?
Cheesecake is prepared from dairy products, notably cream cheese. In many cases, eggs are included as well. Because they’re so delicate, the cake won’t keep its freshness for very long.
- In the Refrigerator
Cheesecake will last 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator if it has an expiration date on the packaging unless the packaging label specifies a shorter period.
- In the Freezer
When frozen, it lasts for up to 2 months. While I believe that it is best consumed within a month, it is perfectly safe to consume even after that.
- At Room Temperature
According to the USDA, your cheesecake should be kept at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after which it will most likely go bad and be hazardous to eat.
When it comes to making your own cheesecake, you usually don’t want to keep it for longer than 5 days. Alternatively, if the recipe you’re following says so, or if there are some highly perishable ingredients involved. If you need to keep cheesecake for a longer period of time, freezing is the way to go.
Related: Can You Freeze Cotija Cheese?
Types Of Cheesecakes
Let’s take a look at the many types of cheesecake and their components before we get into storing them. Let’s figure out how each of these components will affect the recommended shelf life.
The four most common types of cheesecakes are as follows:
- Baked Cheesecake
Cream cheese, eggs, and sugar are the most common ingredients in baked cheesecake. Because the eggs have a shorter shelf life than others, they reduce the lifespan of a cheesecake.
- No-Bake Cheesecake
No-bake cheesecakes are those that have been frozen rather than baked. These usually only include cream cheese and heavy cream, which makes them far more durable than other types of no-bake desserts.
- Store-Bought
Store-bought cheesecakes last considerably longer and freeze better than those prepared at home. This is owing to the fact that they have additions of preservatives to ensure a stronger structure.
- Home-Baked
A home-baked cheesecake is typically best enjoyed freshly baked. Although they can stay in the refrigerator for a few days, their taste and texture begin to deteriorate as soon as they are prepared.
How to Store Cheesecake?
Since cream cheese (or cottage cheese or ricotta) is the major component of cheesecake, I’m sure you know it needs to be kept refrigerated. Obviously, it must be covered to avoid absorbing odors from the fridge and drying out. Use a cake carrier or cut the leftovers into smaller pieces and seal them in airtight containers instead.
If you’re going to serve the cheesecake with a topping that doesn’t keep well, it’s best to chill the cake first and add the final touches just before serving.
How to Tell If Cheesecake Has Gone Bad?
Unfortunately, there is no reliable method to determine if cheesecake has gone bad. Obviously, if there is mold, spots, or an unpleasant odor, it should be thrown away. However, those indicators generally appear after keeping the cake for approximately two weeks or longer.
This indicates that the cleanest approach to do this is to discard any homemade cheesecake kept for longer than 5 to 7 days, as well as store-bought versions after 7 to 9 days. Yes, even if it appears to be in excellent condition.
Can You Freeze Cheesecake?
You’ve probably seen frozen cheesecake in a grocery store. Alternatively, if you’ve ordered cheesecake online, it came frozen or half-defrosted with dry ice packs throughout the box. That’s as sure a sign that you can freeze this dessert.
It’s also quite simple. All you need is some plastic wrap and freezer bags or containers. First, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap. Then, to further protect it from cold air, put it in a freezer bag or container. Bags take less space in the freezer, but if you’re concerned that the dessert will absorb odors, containers are a better choice.
There are two defrosting strategies, both of which are rather time-consuming. The first is to leave the cake in the fridge for a night, then take it out and place it on the counter for about 3 hours before serving. The second option is to defrost it over 5 hours on the counter.
It’s best to defrost it in the fridge and then cut as much as you need, bringing it to room temperature before using it. The rest can be frozen, or kept in the fridge if you intend on eating it within a few days.
Tips To Store Cheesecake
Keep foods at their best by storing them correctly. Here are some suggestions for keeping both store-bought and homemade cheesecake lasting:
Tightly Wrap With Plastic Film
When it comes to storing cheesecake, you should aim to minimize contact with moisture and protect the cake from absorbing other flavors from other foods in the refrigerator. Then, after slicing and serving the required slices, carefully wrap up the remainder of the cake using cling film. Make sure there is no room for moisture to get in.
Store In An Airtight Container
Airtight containers are a nice alternative to freezer bags for keeping food. If resealable bags aren’t an option, attempt to store the cheesecake in an airtight container. Before putting the slices inside the container, first wrap them in a plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.
Refrigerate As Soon As Possible
Whatever method you used to make the cake, whether you baked it yourself or bought it, keep it in the fridge as soon as possible and use it right away.
The greatest amount of time that a cheesecake can stay at room temperature is 2 hours. Anything more than that, and the cake will be hazardous to eat because it may contain potentially harmful bacteria.
Freeze For Longer Freshness
Slice or freeze the entire cheesecake. Freezer-ready cheesecake should be refrigerated as soon as you get home. Wrap the cake in aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw and chill the cake for up to 7 hours before serving once it has been frozen.
Conclusion
You can now bake as many cheesecakes as you want without having to worry about the freezing process thanks to this comprehensive guide. You may also share them with your friends and relatives if you wish!
