How Long Does Cake Last in the Fridge? Tips for Storing and Reheating

Calling all cake lovers! Whether you have leftovers from a party or just want to savor your delicious dessert for days, it’s important to know how long your cake will stay fresh in the fridge.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about storing the cake in the refrigerator – from expiration dates and storage tips to common mistakes that could make your precious pastry stale faster than you think.

So let’s dive right into the sweet world of cake preservation and ensure that every slice is as fresh as can be!

Table of Contents

How Long Does Cake Last in the Fridge?

Your cake is covered and stored properly, most cakes will last 3-5 days in the fridge. If you want your cake to last longer than that, you can store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To maximize the shelf life of your cake, be sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. And always allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving. Cold cake just doesn’t taste as good!

What Type of Cakes Can Be Refrigerated and For How Long?

Assuming your cake is covered or wrapped tightly, most cakes will be fine in the fridge for 3-5 days.
More moist cakes such as chiffon, genoise, and sponge cakes will dry out quicker and are best eaten within 2-3 days.
Butterscotch and chocolate cakes seem to improve with age and can last up to a week in the fridge.
Fruitcakes can also be stored in the fridge for several weeks. If you want your cake to last longer than a week, it’s best to freeze it.

Tips for Storing Cake in the Fridge

To store the cake in the fridge, first, make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

If wrapping in plastic wrap, be sure to use a heavy-duty wrap so that the cake does not dry out. If using aluminum foil, make sure to use a double layer so that the cake does not become freezer burned.

Once your cake is wrapped, place it on a plate or in a container with a lid and store it in the back of the fridge where it is the coolest.

Try to avoid storing cake near fruits and vegetables as they give off ethylene gas which can cause your cake to spoil faster.

Reheating Refrigerated Cake

To reheat the refrigerated cake, first, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature.
Then, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Next, place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is warmed through.
Slice and serve as desired. Enjoy!

How to Tell if Cake Has Gone Bad?

If you’re not sure whether your cake has gone bad, there are a few telltale signs to look for.

First, check the appearance of the cake. If it looks moldy or has any strange discoloration, it’s probably not safe to eat.
Secondly, give the cake a smell test. If it smells sour or off, it’s best to throw it out.
Finally, take a small bite of the cake. If it tastes sour or spoiled, don’t eat any more of it. If you’re still not sure, err on the side of caution and throw the cake away.

Alternatives to Refrigerating Cakes

While most cakes are best stored in the fridge, there are a few alternatives that can work well.

If you have a cake that is frosted with a buttercream or cream cheese-based frosting, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent the frosting from drying out. If your cake has a chocolate ganache frosting, it should be stored in the fridge.

Fruitcakes and pound cakes can also be stored at room temperature, but they will only last for about 2 weeks before they start to dry out. Again, be sure to keep them in an airtight container.

If you need to store a cake for longer than a few days or weeks, your best bet is to freeze it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cakes will last for 6-8 months.

FAQs

How to cool a cake quickly?

One way to cool a cake quickly is by placing it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes.

This will help to cool the cake and set the frosting. You can also put the cake in the fridge or use cooling racks to help speed up the process.

How can I extend the shelf life of my cake?

There are a few things you can do to extend the shelf life of your cake.

First, make sure it is well wrapped – either in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. This will help to keep the cake moist and prevent it from drying out.
Second, if you have any leftover frosting, you can use it to ‘seal’ the edges of the cake, which will further prevent drying out.
Finally, store your cake in the colder part of your fridge (usually towards the back) as this will help to slow down mold growth.

What is the best way to store the cake in the fridge?

The best way to store the cake in the fridge is in an airtight container. This will help to keep it fresh for longer. You can also wrap the cake in cling film or aluminum foil before storing it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

The refrigerator is the best place to store cake, but understanding the shelf life of cakes in this environment can help you better manage your baking and save money. We hope that our guide has provided useful information on how long cake lasts in the fridge and what factors affect its longevity so that you can keep your delicious creations for as long as possible.

Whether it’s a birthday cake or a special holiday treat, staying informed can help prevent wasted food and give you more time to enjoy sweet treats with family and friends.