Shelf Life Tips
- How long do freshly baked cookies last? The precise answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep freshly baked cookies in a dry area.
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To maximize the shelf life of soft cookies, place the cookies in a tightly covered airtight container.
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To maximize the shelf life of crisp cookies, place the cookies in a loosely covered container.
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How long do freshly baked cookies last at room temperature? Properly stored, freshly baked cookies will last for about 2 to 3 weeks at normal room temperature.
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Refrigerate immediately any cookies that contain frosting or filling made with dairy products or eggs, such as buttercream, whipped cream, cream cheese or custard frostings or fillings; these cookies will last about 5 to 7 days in the fridge.
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When refrigerating, place in tightly covered airtight container or cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent cookies from drying out.
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Can you freeze freshly baked cookies? Yes- to freeze unfrosted cookies: Wrap cookies tightly with aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap, or place in heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight plastic container.
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To freeze frosted cookies: (1) Place in a single layer on cookie tray in freezer; (2) Once cookies are frozen, transfer to airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, lining each layer with waxed paper, and return to freezer.
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How long do cookies last in the freezer? Properly stored, they will maintain best quality for about 6 to 8 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - cookies that have been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How to tell if cookies are bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the cookies: discard any that have an off smell or appearance; if mold appears, discard the cookies.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
