Does Cherry Pie Need To Be Refrigerated?

Cherry pie is perhaps one of the best dessert choices you could decide on. It has an amazing aroma and sweetness to it, and it is perfect for those evenings out to finish a fantastic dinner.

But cherry pie is one of those food types that we are unsure of. Due to the way it is made and what the ingredients are, you may be wondering – do I need refrigerate cherry pie?

Does Cherry Pie Need To Be Refrigerated

The answer is yes. You need to refrigerate pies with perishable ingredients. Cherry pies should be refrigerated and covered correctly and then consumed within three days. 

However, there’s more to it than this. Let’s explore everything you need to know about refrigerating cherry pies.

Read on to learn more.

Can I Leave Cherry Pie Out?

If you have leftover cherry pie (somehow!), you can leave cherry pie out but it depends on the ingredients you have used inside the pie for the duration you can leave it out for.

If you are using perishable ingredients within cherry pie, then you should refrigerate the cherry pie as soon as possible. After you have done this, it should be consumed within three days.

If you have not used perishable ingredients, you can actually leave cherry pie out at room temperature for two days! However, it’s still recommended that you refrigerate cherry pie as soon as possible.

Remember though, when you are refrigerating your pie, you need to cover the pie correctly with plastic wrap that is tightly wrapped around the pie and then stored away from other foods in the fridge. 

Do not place the pie underneath raw meats or fish. You’re better off putting the pie in a higher area within the fridge. 

Can I Leave Cherry Pie In The Kitchen Overnight?

If you have forgotten to refrigerate your cherry pie and you’ve left it uncovered overnight, you may be wondering if it is okay to consume the next day.

The answer will depend on where you live and the conditions in your kitchen. If you live in a particularly hot place, it is not recommended that you consume cherry pie after leaving it out overnight.

However, if you live in a balanced climate, you should be okay to refrigerate it the next day – or eat it right away. 

Additionally, the conditions of the kitchen will play a big factor in your decision making. If you leave your windows open, it’s possible for pests like flies to come into the kitchen and spoil your cherry pie.

However, if you covered the pie up – this could still be okay to consume. In essence, the sure fire way to eat cherry pie again is by covering it and refrigerating it.

Do I Need To Refrigerate Store Bought Cherry Pie?

It does not matter if cherry pie has been made at home or if you bought it in a store – the recommendation is that you refrigerate it if you have leftovers.

Once again, ensure you correctly cover the cherry pie up and then place it in the correct area of the refrigerator.

Do I Need To Refrigerate Fruit Pie?

Generally, fruit pies have the same rules as cherry pies. However, it is important that you read the label and understand what is included in the pie, if you have bought the fruit pie in a grocery store. 

If you make fruit pie at home, you will know what ingredients you have used – and generally, these will be perishable. So, it is always a good idea to refrigerate your fruit pie.

Does Cherry Pie Need To Be Refrigerated (1)

Why Are Pumpkin Pies Not In The Refrigerator?

Pumpkin pies are often seen on shelves rather than in refrigerators when you go into a store. This is because they are somewhat of an exception to the rule. 

These pies are usually made with lots of preservatives and this allows the pies to have a much longer shelf life and they can handle room temperature.

However, it’s important to remember with these pies that, as with cherry pie, when exposed to warmer temperatures, these pumpkin pies will perish quickly and may even be moved into a refrigeration unit for protection and preservation.

How Long Do Cherries Last?

If you’re making, or you’ve purchased, a cherry pie that has used fresh cherries – you will need to know how long they last for. 

Generally, if cherries are at normal room temperature, they can last for about four days – but this can extend to a week if they are refrigerated.

The reason we’ve mentioned fresh cherries here is because not all cherry pies are made using fresh cherries. Some cherries in these pies are canned cherries and these have a much longer life altogether. 

Can I Reheat Cherry Pie?

Yes, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with reheating cherry pies. You can either heat your pie back up in the microwave, oven or even in the toaster (if you have one large enough, of course!). 

However, once the cherry pie has been reheated – do not reheat it again. After a second reheat, it needs to be consumed. If it goes cold again, you should dispose of it as soon as possible. 

How Do I Know If Cherry Pie Has Gone Bad?

As with many other foods, there will be clear and obvious signs that your cherry pie has gone bad. 

You may notice a strong, foul odor. Additionally, you may see green or black bacterial growth on the cherry pie. 

If you accidentally consume this bad cherry pie, you may also notice a very horrid or “off” taste of the pie. It’s important that you keep any of the pie and call for medical advice as soon as you can. 

The Bottom Line

Cherry pie should be refrigerated, however you may get away with not refrigerating it in certain circumstances. If you’re unsure about if your food is safe or not, never gamble on it!

Mark Williams
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