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Pies are the perfect dessert for any occasion! Sometimes, you end up making too many pies and you wonder; what’s the best way to store leftover pies so that they will still be fresh and delicious the next time you want to enjoy them?
As a general rule, the best way to store a pie is by refrigeration. Let the pie completely cool and cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap. Fit the pie inside a round airtight container before placing it in the fridge. A pie will usually stay fresh for around 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Follow along as I break down all the possible ways to store your pies whether it be at room temperature, in an airtight container, in the fridge, or even in the freezer.
How To Properly Store A Pie To Make It Last?
The best way to store a pie so that it stays fresh and lasts longer is to refrigerate it. Let the pie cool and cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap. If possible, it’s best to put the pie in an airtight container before refrigerating. Pies will stay fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
I recently came across The Perfect-Sized Plastic Round Storage Containers that can fit anything in them from a pie to even cupcakes. These containers come in a 2-pack and are Microwave and Dishwasher safe! You can check out these containers on Amazon!
Let’s look at this and other ways in detail so your pies will stay fresh for as long as possible.
How To Properly Store Pie In A Container
To properly store a pie in a container, let it cool completely. Cover individual slices in foil or plastic wrap, or if you have a large pie, place the entire pie in an airtight container.
Put the airtight container in a cool and dry place away from any sources of heat, such as the stove. You also want to avoid places with direct sunlight, as this will cause the pie to spoil faster.
The best place will, for instance, be the back shelf of the pantry or cupboard. It is important that you avoid any dusty and humid environments.
How To Properly Store Pie In The Fridge
This is the best way to store a pie so it is fresh. Let the pie cool completely, then cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap. You can also cover the pie in plastic wrap and then run foil over it.
If you have an airtight container, putting the pie in it before refrigerating is best.
When storing pie in the fridge, be sure to put it at the back to avoid any possible temperature differences when you open and close the fridge door.
Also, keep the pie away from other food items such as fish or strong-smelling cheeses, as these can cause the pie to absorb its flavors and odors.
How To Properly Store Pie In The Freezer
It is important to note that some pies such as custard and cream pies do not freeze very well, so it is advisable to store them in the fridge.
To properly freeze other types of pie, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, making sure that there is no air exposure.
You can then place the pie in a freezer bag before putting it in the freezer.
It is also advisable to store the pie at the back of the freezer where it will be the coldest and will last for up to 6 months.
*By the way, I recently wrote an article about How To Bake A Pie Without A Pie Pan. This article talks about all the substitutes you can use instead of a pie pan and what you should do differently with each substitute. You can check out this article here!
How Long Does A Pie Last At Room Temperature Overnight?
The shelf life of a pie at room temperature overnight really depends on the type of pie. For instance, a fruit pie will last for 1-2 days while a custard or cream pie will only last for 2-6 hours.
| Room Temperature | Airtight Container | Refrigerator | Freezer |
| From 1-2 days | For up to 2-3 days | For up to 3 days | For up to 6 months |
If you are not sure how long a specific pie will last, it is best to err on the side of caution and refrigerate it instead. This is especially important in hot weather, as the heat speeds up the process of spoilage.
Here is an overview of how long different types of pie stay fresh:
- Fruit pie: 1-2 days
- Custard or cream pie: 2-6 hours
- Pumpkin or sweet potato pie: 2-6 hours
- Cheese pie: 2-3 days
- Key lime pie: 2-6 hours
- Chocolate pie: 2-8 hours
*By the way, I recently wrote an article breaking down The Best Pie Thickeners for Thickening Runny Pie Fillings. This article talks about all the potential thickeners that you might have laying around the house that can thicken your runny pie filling. You can check out this article here!
In general, pies that contain eggs or dairy products will last a few hours before they need to be refrigerated. It is always a good idea to refrigerate such pies after 2 hours just to be on the safe side.
Pies that do not contain eggs or dairy, such as fruit pies, can last at room temperature for a little longer. However, in hot weather, it is best to refrigerate them.
Note also that how long pie can last in a container at room temperature depends on how well it is stored.
How Long Do Pies Last In Containers?
As a whole, pies can last for up to 2 days in a container at room temperature. This prevents any moisture from entering the pie causing spoilage. If the pie is in a container and stored in a refrigerator, it can last up to 2-3 days. In the freezer, if stored in a container, pies last up to 6 months.
To bake a perfect pie, you’ll need to use a great pan. I recently came across this 9-Inch Non-Stick Aluminized Steel Pie Pan that is great for baking a pie. This pie pan is coated with a silicone called Americoat that prevents the pie from sticking. You can check out this pan on Amazon!
To keep them fresh, you should not store pies with eggs in a container at room temperature for more than two hours. Fruit pies can last in a container at room temperature for up to two days.
However, to make it last longer, you should consider refrigerating your pie.
In the fridge, pies can last in a container for 2-3 days. This is the safest way to store your pie so that it is fresh and delicious when you want to eat it.
How Long Can A Fresh Pie Stay In The Fridge?
As a general rule, storing pie in the fridge will keep the pie fresh for up to 3 days. This is the best way to make sure you have a fresh pie and one that preserves the proper texture, regardless of the filling. It is recommended to store your pie in an airtight container before storing it in a fridge.
So, if you want to enjoy your pie for a few days, it is best to store it in the fridge where it will stay fresh and delicious.
Here is how to store various types of pies in the fridge:
- Fruit pies: Cover them loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Custard or cream pies: Cover them with plastic wrap and put them in an airtight container before storing them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Pumpkin or sweet potato pies: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Cheese pies: Cover them with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. It is important to put them in an airtight container so that the cheese does not dry out.
Keep in mind that each individual pie needs to be stored differently because there are many different types of pies that are made with different types of ingredients.
*By the way, I recently wrote an article about How To Fix A Runny Pie After It’s Baked. This article breaks down all the ways to fix the filling of a baked pie that is still runny. You can check out this article here!
Can You Store Pies In The Freezer?
Generally speaking, you can store most types of pies in the freezer. Make sure to wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then into a freezer bag for added protection against freezer burn. Once properly stored, the pie can last up to 6 months in the freezer.
Here I found a video that breaks down the right way to freeze your pie:
*By the way, I recently wrote an article about The Best Ways To Keep Your Pie Crust Dough From Burning. This article breaks down the most effective way to keep your crust from burning in the oven. You can check out this article here!
To store a pie in the freezer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, making sure that there is no air exposure. You can then place the pie in a freezer bag before putting it in the freezer.
It is also recommended to store the pie in the back of the freezer where it will be the coldest and will last for up to 6 months.
Most fruit pies such as apple, cherry, and blueberry pies can be frozen. But custard and cream pies such as pumpkin and sweet potato pies do not freeze well.
How Long Can You Keep An Unbaked Pie In The Freezer?
You can keep an unbaked pie in the freezer for up to 3 months. To store an unbaked pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Make sure you don’t cut too much of the top crust off as this will cause the filling to spill out when it is thawed.
Can You Make A Pie Ahead Of Time?
Generally speaking, a pie can be made ahead of time as long as it is stored in the fridge or freezer. If you make a fruit pie, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure it is properly sealed so that excess moisture doesn’t ruin the dough.
According to the Betty Crocker website, if you are ready to bake your frozen pie:
“Do not thaw. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 375°F and bake 30 to 45 minutes longer or until crust is golden brown and juice begins to bubble through the slits.”
Baking the pie instead of thawing it ensures a perfectly baked pie even after months of storing it in the freezer!
*By the way, I recently wrote an article about Which Oven Rack Should You Use To Bake A Perfect Pie. This article breaks down what happens when you bake a pie in all the oven racks and why one might be better than the others. You can check out this article here!
Can Pies Spoil? Can They Go Bad?
In general, a pie can go bad if it is not properly stored. If you store a pie at room temperature for longer than a day, it can start to spoil. The same goes for storing it in the fridge or freezer for too long. Make sure to properly store in an airtight container to decrease spoilage.
You may be wondering, “is pie still good after a week?” Most pies will stay good for up to 6 months if stored properly in the freezer.
Note that most types of pie will begin to spoil after a week in the container or in the fridge. So it is best to eat them within this time frame.
In a container at room temperature, a pie will be good for up to 2 days for fruit pies and up to 6 hours for egg and dairy pies. In the fridge, most types of pie will last up to 3 days.
How Can You Tell When A Pie Has Gone Bad?
As a general rule, you can tell if a pie has gone bad if it is moldy or if the filling has started to separate from the crust. If you see either of these signs, it is best to throw the pie away. You may also notice that the pie has developed an off smell or taste.
I’ve been using Ceramic Pie Weights for as long as I could remember and it saved my pie crusts on so many occasions. As a general rule, you should use about 2.2 lbs of pie weights for every 9-inch pie you make. I use these Ceramic Pie Weights that you can check out on Amazon!
Make sure to check out the quality of the pie by using your sense of smell, taste, or even gut instinct before fully eating a pie that has been stored for a while.
Can You Get Sick From Eating A Spoiled Pie?
Generally speaking, you can get sick from eating a spoiled pie. Spoiled food can cause food poisoning, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating a pie, it is best to see a doctor.
Final Thoughts
Pies are such a versatile dessert that can be eaten at any time of the year. Whether you made too much or have a lot left over, it’s very important to know how to store it!
