Does Cream Cheese Need To Be Refrigerated? Solved

Last Updated on July 13, 2024 by Shari Mason

Have you ever wondered if cream cheese should be refrigerated or not? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. There is uncertainty about this among many people. The answer is…it depends.

Different types of cream cheese have different storage instructions. Some need to be refrigerated, while others can be stored at room temperature. 

In this blog post, we will discuss their storage instructions. We will also provide some tips on how to store cream cheese properly.

Do I Need To Put Cream Cheese In The Fridge? 

Most people believe that cream cheese needs to be refrigerated, but this is actually not the case. Cream cheese is made from milk and cream that has been pasteurized, meaning that all of the harmful bacteria have been killed. 

This makes it shelf-stable, and as long as it is stored in a cool, dry place, it will not spoil. However, cream cheese will begin to soften and lose its flavor if it is stored at temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. 

For this reason, many people opt to store their cream cheese in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks.

So while you don’t need to refrigerate your cream cheese, it may be the best option if you want to keep it tasting its best. But do you have to refrigerate grated parmesan cheese?

How Long Is It Good For?

Cream cheese is good for up to four weeks after the date of purchase, as long as it is stored properly. Once opened, cream cheese should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and kept in the refrigerator. 

If stored properly, cream cheese will retain its fresh, creamy taste and texture for up to four weeks. 

After that point, it may begin to develop a sour smell or a slightly crumbly texture. However, it will still be safe to eat for up to two weeks after these signs of spoilage appear. Find out if you have to refrigerate Laughing Cow cheese here.

Can Cream Cheese Be Left Out?

Cream cheese is safe to leave out at room temperature for up to two hours. After that, bacteria can start to grow, and the cream cheese will become unsafe to eat. 

The best way to store cream cheese is in the fridge, where it will remain fresh for up to two weeks. However, if you forget to put the cream cheese away and it has been sitting out for more than two hours, it’s best to throw it out. 

With so many delicious recipes that call for cream cheese, it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on the clock when you’re preparing your meal. By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy cream cheese without having to worry about food poisoning.

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How To Tell If It Has Gone Bad

There are a few telltale signs that your cream cheese has gone bad. The first is the color – if the cream cheese has changed from its usual white color to a yellow or greenish tint, it’s time to toss it out. 

Another sign is the texture – if the cream cheese is lumpy or runny, it’s also past its prime. 

Finally, you can always rely on your nose: if the cream cheese smells sour or unpleasant, it’s definitely time to get rid of it. If you’re not sure whether your cream cheese is still good, err on the side of caution and throw it away – it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Read: Why Does My Nutella Have Little Bumps In It?

How To Prolong Cream Cheese’s Life Span

Most people don’t realize that there are several ways to prolong cream cheese’s life span. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your cream cheese for weeks or even months after opening the package. 

First, always store cream cheese in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from spoiling. 

Second, be sure to seal the package tightly after each use. This will prevent air from getting into the cream cheese and causing it to spoil. 

Finally, if you notice any mold growing on the surface of the cream cheese [1], simply remove it with a clean knife. These simple tips will help you enjoy your cream cheese for weeks or even months after opening the package.

FAQs

How long can cream cheese sit at room temperature?

Cream cheese can sit out for a few hours, but it is best to store it in the fridge.

When cream cheese is stored at a temperature over 40 degrees F, bacteria will start to grow and multiply. The bacteria produces lactic acid as a by-product, and this lactic acid makes the cream cheese sour and crumbly. 

So if you’re not going to eat all of the cream cheese in one sitting, it’s best to store it in the fridge so that the bacteria doesn’t have a chance to grow.

What happens if cream cheese is not refrigerated?

Cream cheese is a dairy product and will generally last about two weeks unrefrigerated. After that, it can become sour and develop bacteria that can cause food poisoning.

Can cream cheese be refrigerated after sitting out?

Yes, cream cheese can be refrigerated after sitting out as long as it is still within the expiration date. When cream cheese is refrigerated, it will typically last for 7-10 days.

If you are not going to use all of the cream cheese in one sitting, it is best to store the unused portion in the refrigerator. This will help keep the cream cheese fresher for longer.

Is it OK to leave unopened cream cheese out overnight?

It depends on the temperature in your house overnight. Cream cheese is a dairy product and will spoil if it’s exposed to too much heat or humidity, so if it’s going to be very hot or humid outside overnight, it’s not a good idea to leave the cream cheese out. 

But if the temperature in your house is moderate, then you should be OK leaving it out overnight. Just make sure to refrigerate it when you wake up in the morning.

Key Takeaways

The final answer to the question of whether cream cheese needs to be refrigerated is that it depends on the cream cheese. Some cream cheeses do not have to be refrigerated, while others must be kept cold. 

If you are unsure about whether your particular brand of cream cheese needs to be refrigerated or not, then it is best to err on the side of caution and keep it in the fridge. 

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your cream cheese will stay fresh and delicious for all your culinary creations.

Reference:

1. https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/what-is-cream-cheese/