We share tips on how to store pumpkin pie so you could enjoy leftovers as long as possible.
If you mostly bake fruit pies, you may not be familiar with how to store pumpkin pie.
Pumpkin pie is custard-based, so it requires slightly different treatment than, say, apple pie.
Photo: Alan Richardson/Getty Images
But how long can you keep pumpkin pie in the fridge?
Can you freeze pumpkin pie?
Should you leave pumpkin pie out on the counter?
Read on for the answers to all these questions and more.
How Long Does Pumpkin Pie Last?
If stored properly, homemade pumpkin pie can be kept in the fridge for three to four days.
That’s perfect for enjoying your pie along withleftover stuffingand turkey in the days after Thanksgiving.
Store-bought pumpkin pie has preservatives that help it last longer.
Check the sell-by or best-by date on the packaging to see how long it lasts.
If it smells funky, toss it.
If it is moldy or the filling is separating, toss it.
If the filling texture is coagulating or feels gummy or jelly-like, toss it.
Refrigerating Pumpkin Pie
Homemade pumpkin pieshould be refrigerated if not eaten right away.
Sometimes, store-bought pies have different storage guidelines that apply to them because they have preservatives.
Don’t let the shelf stability of the canned filling fool you, though.
The addition of other ingredients to pumpkin pie filling is what necessitates refrigeration.
Pumpkin pie lasts on the counter at room temperature for only about two hours.
Would you leavecooked eggsout overnight?
Not likelyand it’s definitely not advisable.
However, store-bought and homemade pies have different rules when it comes to storage.
That’s because store-bought pumpkin pie has preservatives.
Can You Freeze Pumpkin Pie?
Yes, you canfreeze pumpkin pieso it lasts longer or to help save time.
it’s possible for you to freeze both store-bought and homemade pumpkin pies.
Frozen pumpkin pies will be good for a month or two.
The thinness of the aluminum will help the pie freeze more easily.
Line a sheet pan withparchment paperand lightly cover the pie with aluminum foil.
Ten minutes in the oven should yield a perfectly warm slice of pie.
For frozen pumpkin pies, you’ll need at least 12 hours of defrosting time.
Place the frozen pie in the refrigerator and let it thaw.
Avoid defrosting at room temperature on the counter, as it can lead to a soggy crust.