Wait, Does Pecan Pie Need to Be Refrigerated?
Whether you call it pea-can pie or puh-cahn pie, pecan pie is a deliciously classic dessert for Thanksgiving dinner. Every holiday season, I bake a bourbon pecan pie, and I’m always mindful of my cooking time, cool-down time and storage method. Even if you buy your pecan pie, it’s important to know the right way to store it.
So when you finish your Turkey Day feast, should you refrigerate pecan pie? I know what I do with my leftover pecan pie, but just to be sure that I've been doing the right thing, I dug into the research. Read on for everything you need to know to keep your pecan pie tasty and safe.
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Should You Refrigerate Pecan Pie?
It may be more convenient to leave a pecan pie on the counter, but refrigerating it is essential for quality and safety. Unlike a fruit pie, a pecan pie has a perishable filling that’s prone to bacterial growth, which is why pecan pie should be refrigerated. Following the correct method is crucial for preserving the pie’s flavor, protecting its ingredients and avoiding any foodborne illness.
Pecan pie needs to be stored in the refrigerator because of the eggs and butter in the filling. Although these ingredients are baked, they’re still prone to bacterial growth.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) notes that “homemade egg-rich pies such as pecan, pumpkin, lemon meringue and custard must be kept refrigerated after cooking and cooling." The USDA info also says that pecan pie can be kept for three to four days in the fridge and notes that store-bought pies may contain preservatives, so you should "consult the bakery for storage information.”
In short, store-bought pecan pies are probably okay to be left on the counter, depending on where you buy them. But if you don't expect guests for a couple of hours, homemade pecan pies should be stored in the fridge.
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How Long Can You Refrigerate Pecan Pie?
Like other Thanksgiving leftovers, pecan pie can last up to four days in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the pie will taste the freshest and best within the first couple of days, so get to eating! This is the time to have pecan pie for breakfast. If you want to eat it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 15 minutes.
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How Long Can You Leave Pecan Pie at Room Temperature?
Once the pecan pie is baked, it typically takes several hours to cool down. Once it's cooled off. the time starts ticking. In the food safety world, 2 hours is the maximum time perishable food should be left out before it's refrigerated. Simply wrap the pecan pie loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stick it in the refrigerator.
After 2 hours, bacteria growth increases, especially in warm climates. Keep this timeframe in mind so you and your guests won’t get sick.
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Can You Freeze Pecan Pie?
Yes, you sure can! To freeze a pecan pie, let the pie cool down completely after it's baked, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or pie storage container. Be sure to put the pie on a flat surface until it's fully frozen so the pie stays level. And don't forget to mark the date on the bag so you have a reminder of when you stashed the sweet.
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For the best quality, a frozen pecan pie should be eaten within 3 months. To reheat it, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then warm it in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
More Handy Turkey Day Tips
Ok. You've got the pie sorted, but what about the rest of the menu? These posts can help you sort out how much of everything you need.
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