Can Cream Cheese Be Kept In The Fridge? The Ultimate Storage Guide For Your Favorite Spread

Cream cheese is a versatile dairy product that can be used in a variety of dishes, from cheesecakes to sandwiches. However, many people are unsure about how to properly store cream cheese to ensure its freshness and safety. This blog post will provide all the information you need to know about storing cream cheese in the fridge, including how long it can be kept, how to tell if it’s gone bad, and what to do if you find mold on cream cheese.

How Long Can Cream Cheese Be Kept in the Fridge?

Unopened cream cheese can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 months. Once opened, cream cheese should be used within 10 days.

How to Tell If Cream Cheese Has Gone Bad

There are a few signs that can indicate that cream cheese has gone bad. These include:

• Mold: Mold is the most obvious sign that cream cheese has gone bad. If you see any mold on cream cheese, it should be discarded immediately.
• Sour smell: Cream cheese that has gone bad may have a sour smell.
• Discoloration: Cream cheese that has gone bad may have a yellow or pink tint.
• Texture changes: Cream cheese that has gone bad may become watery or grainy.

What to Do If You Find Mold on Cream Cheese

If you find mold on cream cheese, it is important to discard the entire container immediately. Do not eat moldy cream cheese, as it can cause food poisoning.

Tips for Storing Cream Cheese in the Fridge

To ensure that cream cheese stays fresh for as long as possible, it is important to store it properly in the fridge. Here are a few tips:

• Keep cream cheese in its original packaging. The original packaging will help to protect the cream cheese from air and moisture.
• Store cream cheese in the coldest part of the fridge. The coldest part of the fridge is typically the back of the fridge, near the freezer.
• Do not store cream cheese in the door of the fridge. The door of the fridge is the warmest part of the fridge, and cream cheese will spoil more quickly if stored there.

Can You Freeze Cream Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze cream cheese. However, it is important to note that freezing cream cheese will change its texture. Frozen cream cheese will become crumbly and grainy.

How to Freeze Cream Cheese

To freeze cream cheese, follow these steps:

1. Wrap the cream cheese tightly in plastic wrap.
2. Place the wrapped cream cheese in a freezer-safe container.
3. Freeze the cream cheese for up to 2 months.

How to Thaw Cream Cheese

To thaw cream cheese, follow these steps:

1. Remove the cream cheese from the freezer and place it in the fridge.
2. Allow the cream cheese to thaw overnight.
3. Once thawed, the cream cheese can be used as usual.

Popular Questions

Q: How long can cream cheese be kept in the fridge?
A: Unopened cream cheese can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 months. Once opened, cream cheese should be used within 10 days.

Q: How can I tell if cream cheese has gone bad?
A: Signs that cream cheese has gone bad include mold, a sour smell, discoloration, and texture changes.

Q: What should I do if I find mold on cream cheese?
A: If you find mold on cream cheese, discard the entire container immediately. Do not eat moldy cream cheese, as it can cause food poisoning.

Q: Can I freeze cream cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze cream cheese. However, freezing cream cheese will change its texture. Frozen cream cheese will become crumbly and grainy.

Q: How do I thaw cream cheese?
A: To thaw cream cheese, remove it from the freezer and place it in the fridge. Allow the cream cheese to thaw overnight. Once thawed, the cream cheese can be used as usual.