How Long Does Cream Cheese Last?

Want to make cheesecake or casserole but wondering whether the half-open packet of cream cheese that’s been in the fridge is good to use or not? Or is it alright to use cream cheese after its expiry date? Well, this article is here to answer all your questions. 

Opened pack of cream cheese can last up to 2 hours in the pantry. The refrigerator can last for 1 to 2 weeks; when kept in the freezer, it can last up to two months. 

On the other hand, an unopened pack of cream cheese can stay well for up to 1 to 2 months. It can also last 2 to 3 days after its expiration date. 

Who doesn’t love the creamy and delicious texture of cream cheese? It has a mild and sweet taste with a pleasant tanginess. You can enjoy cream cheese in different ways or combine it with herbs and fruits. 

But if you buy a whole tub of it and want to store it, it’s better to know the duration and the storage tips.

Here is a whole list of sections related to spoilage, shelf life, and tips for storing cream cheese. Just go through all the sections and clear all your doubts. Let’s dive right in. 

How Long Does Cream Cheese Last?

Looking for a simple answer, here is a table that shows the shelf life of the cream cheese on different parameters. 

How Long Does Cream Cheese Sit Out?

If you place cream cheese overnight on the shelf, you must check before using it. Cream cheese can last up to only two hours at room temperature. 

Dairy products get easily spoiled after some time and can be an open invitation for bacterial growth if not properly stored. Thus, if the cream cheese is placed outside for over two hours, you must toss it away. 

How Long Does Cream Cheese Last In The Fridge?

Placing the cream cheese in the fridge can extend its shelf life. An open pack of cheese can last up to one or two weeks. 

But make sure you place it in the plastic wrap properly. On the other hand, an unopened pack of cream cheese can last up to two months or till its expiry date.

However, an unopened pack of cream cheese can last up to two or three weeks, even after passing its expiry date. 

Can You Freeze Cream Cheese?

The straightforward answer to this question is yes! But it totally depends on how you want to use it. Placing it in the freezer can cause changes in its texture. 

You can experience a grainy texture, which is not an ideal option to enjoy with a bagel. However, if you use cream cheese over a dish where the texture does not matter much, such as pound cake, then it is fine to use frozen cream cheese. 

How Long Does Cream Cheese Last In The Freezer?

Cream cheese can last up to two months when placed in the freezer. You can place an unopened cream cheese straight into the freezer. 

On the other hand, an unopened pack of cream cheese can be placed in the freezer, but you need to put it in a Ziploc bag or any air-tight container. 

Does Cream Cheese Go Bad?

All dairy-based products get spoiled after some time, and cream cheese is not an expectation of that. So, yes, cream cheese does go bad after some time. 

You can surely extend its life by covering it and placing it in the fridge. But if you keep it open, it might have a bacterial attack and be unfit for further consumption. 

How To Tell If Cream Cheese Is Bad? 

Wondering whether a pack of cream cheese placed in the fridge is good for use or not? Here are signs of spoilage that you must take into consideration.

1. Discoloration

The original color of the cream cheese is cream or white. The easiest and simplest way to check whether cream cheese is bad or not is by noticing its appearance. If you notice molds, yellow spots, or any kind of discoloration, toss it out. The presence of all these signs shows bacterial growth. 

2. Dry Or Slimy Texture

Cream cheese must be smooth and creamy in texture. If you find changes in texture, then you must discard it. Changes such as flaky texture, grainy, dry, or slimy texture can be the obvious signs of spoilage. 

3. Unpleasant Smell

Another way to check the spoilage of the cream cheese is by smelling it. If it has an unpleasant smell, you must throw it away. If you experience any kind of sour, pungent, tangy, or moldy smell, don’t consume it. 

4. Sour Taste

Well, if you check cream cheese by using all the above-mentioned methods and are still confused, then taste it. Grab a spoon and have a little amount of cheese. If it does not taste creamy and sweet, toss it out, my friend. If you experience a sour taste, it is not good for further use. 

Is Cream Cheese Good To Consume After Expiration Date?

Usually, the unopened pack of cream cheese can be used for 2-3 weeks after its expiration date. 

There are chances that it may last for even months in the fridge. But make sure the package is unopened. 

How To Store Cream Cheese To Extend Its Shelf Life?

Properly stored cream cheese is the best way to extend its shelf life. Here are some of the best yet easiest ways to store it properly. 

1. Clean Cutlery 

Remember to keep proper food hygiene. To extend the lifespan of any meal, you have to make sure it is placed in a clean place.

I suggest you use clean cutlery while scooping out the cream cheese. This will surely help to extend the shelf life of cream cheese. 

I know using the knife placed near the cream cheese is more convenient, but it is not a good idea. This will expose it to bacteria and will eventually lead to spoilage. 

2. Store It In the Fridge

As I already mentioned, you can store the cream cheese in the refrigerator. Just do not leave it on the shelf of your kitchen. Leaving it for more than two hours can lead to its spoilage. 

So I would rather suggest keeping cream cheese in the refrigerator at the temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit. 

3. Well Covered

If you leave it at room temperature, ensure you do not keep it there for more than 2 hours. However, If you are placing it in the kitchen, make sure it is fully covered. 

4. Air Tight Containers

Place the cream cheese in the fridge with the original packaging if it is still unopened. Once opened, transfer it to the air-tight container. You can also use freezer bags or wraps. 

Tips To Increase The Shelf Life Of Cream Cheese

Now, you know about the spoilage signs and how to store cream cheese. Here are some necessary tips you can keep in mind so that whenever you next have cream cheese, you don’t have to worry about its storage. 

• Check the expiry date before buying cream cheese.
• Keep it in the refrigerator or freezer. 
• Use plastic bags for storing in the fridge. 
• Do not place it at room temperature. 

How To Store Cream Cheese Frosting?

• Keep the cream cheese frosting in an air-tight container. You can also use a plastic bowl or freezer bag. 
• Refrigerate and do not freeze; otherwise, you will end with an icy texture of cream cheese. 
• If you somehow place it in the freezer and wonder how to use icing cream cheese. Well, here is a solution. You just need to blend it. You can simply whisk it, or you can also use an electric beater to soften it up. 
• If you place desserts like cakes and pies with cream cheese frosting, keep them in an airtight container to retain their freshness. 

Conclusion

I hope you got your answers and all your doubts are cleared now. You can enjoy the creamy and sweet flavors of cream cheese. 

If you store it properly, you can surely extend its shelf life. So what are you waiting for? Spread a layer of cream cheese over the bagel and enjoy it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)