Updated: Jan. 31, 2024
Is it safe to leave your pie on the counter or does pumpkin pie need to be refrigerated? Here's what to know before you start baking.
Nothing says fall like pumpkin desserts. You’ve done the work of making a pumpkin pie—maybe entirely from scratch, maybe with a can of pumpkin—and now you need to know the best way to store it. So does pumpkin pie need to be refrigerated or can you just keep it covered on the counter?
The answer: It’s best to store that pumpkin pie in the fridge.
Does Pumpkin Pie Need to Be Refrigerated?
Pumpkin pies are relatively rich in eggs, so the best practice is to stash these pies in the fridge once they’re completely cooled.
To prevent any other fridge flavors from mixing with your perfectly spiced pumpkin pie, be sure to store it in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap. It can stay in the fridge for three to four days (but, like most baked goods, tastes better right away).
Along with your yummy pumpkin pies, be sure you’re storing these common foods the right way.
How Long Can Pumpkin Pie Be Left at Room Temperature?
While the refrigerator is where you want to store pumpkin pies for the long term, they can be left at room temperature in some instances.
First, pumpkin pie should be kept at room temperature when removed from the oven. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before putting it in the fridge.
You can also keep pumpkin pie at room temperature for up to two hours, according to the FDA. So feel free to take the pie out of the fridge a little while before cutting a slice.
How Long Does Pumpkin Pie Last?
Pumpkin pie can last up to four days when stored in the fridge. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container or covered in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
You can also freeze pies. Whole pies or leftover slices should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then stored in an airtight container or zip-top bag (make sure the pie is cooled first!) and then popped into the freezer. Frozen pumpkin pie should be enjoyed within a month.
When you’re ready for a slice, unwrap it and let it defrost in the fridge. Don’t forget to top with homemade whipped cream.
Why Aren’t Store-Bought Pumpkin Pies Refrigerated?
Many store-bought pumpkin pies are made with preservatives that make them shelf-stable. You’ll find this is often the case with pies purchased at large supermarkets or big-box stores. These pies can be left on the counter and are best eaten within a few days (or by the date marked on the package).
However, if you buy a pie from your local bakery, odds are it won’t contain these stabilizing extras. Small-batch pies like these should be treated as homemade and kept in the fridge.
Try Our Top 10 Pumpkin Pies
FAQs
Homemade pie that has been left out for longer than two hours should be thrown away. If you left any pumpkin pie out for too long, don't be tempted to roll the dice.
Will pumpkin pie go bad if not refrigerated? ›
Homemade pie that has been left out for longer than two hours should be thrown away. If you left any pumpkin pie out for too long, don't be tempted to roll the dice.
How long does pumpkin last unrefrigerated? ›
Pumpkins Expiration Date
| Unopened | Counter | Refrigerator |
|---|
| Fresh Cut Pumpkins last for | 2-3 Days | 6-8 Months |
| Cooked Pumpkin lasts for | 7 Days | 6-8 Months |
| Canned Pumpkin lasts for | 7 Days | 3-5 Months |
| Pumpkin Pie lasts for | 3-4 Days | 4-6 Months |
3 more rowsApr 21, 2015
Pumpkin pie has a shelf life of about 3-5 days in the refrigerator. If you've been storing it for longer than that, the taste will definitely disappoint. Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving dinner or just want to make a few pies for your friends, we hope this guide has been helpful and you stay safe.
Does Costco pumpkin pie need to be refrigerated? ›
The Costco pumpkin pie, for example, does not contain any preservatives. Though these pies may last longer, experts recommend that you refrigerate them when you bring them home. “Store-bought pies may have preservatives and other ingredients to make them shelf stable and prevent bacteria growth,” says Susie.
How long can a pie sit out without being refrigerated? ›
If a pie contains eggs or dairy products, it should be stored in the refrigerator and not left out at room temperature for more than two hours. Pies that do not contain dairy products, such as fruit pies can be stored, loosely covered at room temperature for up to two days.
How long can pumpkin pie sit out on Reddit? ›
Actually the FDA says two hours is th max for a custard pie like pumpkin. It's absolutely not two days! The main concern is bacteria growth which happens after two hours. Costco pies are sold refrigerated--these are not the pies you get in the grocery store that sit out at room temperature.
How to tell if pumpkin pie has gone bad? ›
Is It Spoiled? If you know a pie has been left out longer than 2 hours, however painful, you should throw it out. If you're unsure of how long it's been out, be cautious of any pie with an "off" smell or appearance, like excessive separation or weeping. Of course, if mold appears, toss that pie.
How long can pumpkin pie be left out before it develops harmful bacteria? ›
The USDA advises against leaving food out of refrigeration for more than two hours to avoid the “danger zone,” the temperature range (between 40°F and 140°F) where bacteria grows the fastest. If your homemade pumpkin pie has been refrigerated, it can safely sit at room temperature for up to two hours before serving.
Is pumpkin pie good after 10 days? ›
David advises, “Baked pumpkin pie or other pies containing eggs and/or dairy such as pecan, custard, or chiffon pie should be stored refrigerated; they'll keep in the fridge for three to four days.
After baking, pie should be left at room temperature to cool for 2 to 4 hours. Within 4 hours, the pie should then be placed in the refrigerator and covered loosely with plastic wrap. Pie may be refrigerated for 2 to 3 days.
What is the safe temperature for pumpkin pie? ›
Yes, there is a pumpkin pie temperature that will help you knw if your pie is done. You can test the doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the filling. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the internal temperature of pumpkin pie should be at least 180°F at its coolest point.
Does canned pumpkin need to be refrigerated? ›
Once opened, a can of pumpkin lasts five to seven days in the fridge. It is best to move the leftover purée from the can to an airtight container with a date and label.
