We’re discussing cream pies, fruit pies, pumpkin pie, and more.
During the holidays, refrigerator space is as valuable as Nashville real estate.
Luckily, not all pieshave to be refrigerated.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
In fact, some varieties will taste better if you store them at room temperature.
So, how do you know the difference?
Don’t worry: There are some basic rules of thumb to follow when it comes to storing pies.
Credit: Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist Christine Keely
In general, fruit pies often taste better at room temperature.
Whether or notyou should refrigerate pumpkin pieis a little controversial.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), homemade pies containing eggs should be refrigerated.
Credit:Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Karen Rankin; Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen
This is because those pies may contain preservatives or stabilizers that allow them to be kept at room temperature.
Whether homemade or store-bought, one constant is that pumpkin pies taste better at room temperature.
Then place it on the counter so it warms to room temperature before serving.
classic pumpkin pie with pie crust leaves.Credit:VICTOR PROTASIO; FOOD STYLIST: KAREN RANKIN; PROP STYLIST: CLAIRE SPOLLEN
For the best results, you should wait and top fruit andpecan piesright before serving.
This will allow you to store them at room temperature so they’ll taste the very best.
Do Savory Pies Need Refrigerating?
Credit: Photographer: Antonis Achilleos, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall
The same rules apply tosavory piesas those with sweet fillings.
If a savory pie has dairy, eggs, or meat, it must be refrigerated.
Always check the recipe for storage guidelines.
Which Pies Can Be Frozen?
In general, custard and cream pies do not freeze well.
They tend to get soggy and unappealing when you defrost them.
On the other hand, Stephens and Wickenden sayfruit piesfreeze quite beautifully.
First, let the pie cool to room temperature.
Next, wrap it in two or three layers of plastic wrap and place it in the freezer.
Be sure to enjoy it within about four months.
How Long Does Pie Last Unrefrigerated?
When refrigerated, apple pie is good for up to one week.
Davis CA.Consumer Guidelines for Food Safety - USDA.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.What is safe storage for pecan pie?
University of Illinois Extension.Do I need to refrigerate the pie?
