The cake is the best companion for every celebration. It is one of the oldest desserts in the world. The earliest cakes were very different from what we eat today. They were more bread-like and sweetened with honey. Nuts and dried fruits were often added to the dough. Cake as we know it started to take shape in the Middle Ages. Sugar became more readily available, and cakes were increasingly leavened with eggs.
The cake is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed any day, but how long does it last? Of course, the cake is best eaten fresh, but it will keep for a few days if stored properly. Here are some tips on storing cake so it stays fresh and tasty.
Storing Cake in Fridge & Freezer
Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, place it in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for 2 months.
To store the cake at room temperature, place it on a wire rack and let it cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
To store the cake in the fridge, place it on a wire rack and let it cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Place the cake in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To store the cake in the freezer, place it on a wire rack and let it cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Place the cake in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When ready to eat the cake, let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Types of Cakes and Their Shelf Lives
Layer cakes, such as devil’s food, typically have a shelf life of two to three days. Bundt cakes can last for up to four days. Cheesecakes will last for about five days in the fridge. Fruitcakes have a very long shelf life of up to six months (though they will start to dry out after the first month).
Most cakes, regardless of type, are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you must refrigerate a cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
Cakes made with dairy products should not be frozen, such as cream cheese or sour cream. Cakes containing fresh fruit or nuts should also not be frozen, as the freezing process will change the cake’s texture and may cause the fruit or nuts to become soggy. However, most cakes can be successfully frozen for up to two months. To freeze a cake, wrap it in plastic wrap, then wrap it in aluminum foil. Finally, place the cake in the freezer on a flat surface.
When you’re ready to eat the cake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Letting a frozen cake sit at room temperature will cause it to defrost unevenly and may result in a soggy cake.
When Should You Throw It Out?
The cake is food that often brings people together. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, the cake is enjoyed by many. But how long does this sweet treat last? And when should you throw it out?
Cake typically lasts for around two to three days. After this time, the quality of the cake will start to deteriorate, and it will become dry and crumbly. If you’re not planning on eating the cake within this time frame, you can freeze it.
When it comes to freezing cake, it’s essential to wrap it tightly in cling film or aluminum foil. This will help to keep the moisture in and prevent freezer burn. You can then store the cake in either the fridge or freezer. If you choose to freeze it, it will last for around two months.
However, if you have already cut into the cake, you should eat it within two days. This is because bacteria can form on the cut surface and cause food poisoning.
Final Words
So now you know how long a cake lasts and how to make it last longer with proper storage. Of course, you can enjoy your cake for longer when keeping it in the fridge and freezer. But freezing the cake may decrease its taste, yet it will taste delicious.