How Long Do Costco Pumpkin Pies Last? Shelf Life Revealed

Last Updated on September 20, 2024 by Lori Walker

Every so often, a **delicious** slice of pumpkin pie from Costco **begs to be eaten**. But here’s the **big question** – how long do these pumpkin pies stay fresh?

You don’t want to waste any, but you want every bite to taste its best.

So, let’s dig into this topic and get the answers. Whether you’re a pie lover or just curious, we’ve got you covered.

Table of Contents

How Long Are Costco Pumpkin Pies Good For?

Costco pumpkin pies [1] are best enjoyed fresh, but if stored properly, they can last for 2 to 3 days at room temperature. They can stay good for about a week if you place them in the refrigerator.

“I like to make pies. That’s kind of my new obsession – peach, blueberry, apple, strawberry. I make a really good pumpkin pie with real pumpkin.”
– Morgan Saylor, American Actress

However, for the freshest taste, eating them within the first few days after purchase is recommended. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating, and when in doubt, trust your senses.

How Long Can It Be Left Out?

Pumpkin pies should be included briefly, like other baked goods with creamy fillings. Generally, they can be safely left out at room temperature for up to 2 hours.

This time is even shorter if you’re in a warm environment or on a hot day. After this period, there’s a risk of harmful bacteria growing, making it unsafe to eat.

It’s best to store your pie in the fridge if you need to eat it immediately to keep it fresh and safe. But is it okay to bake two pumpkin pies at the same time?

Can You Freeze Costco Pumpkin Pies?

Yes, you can freeze Costco pumpkin pies to extend their shelf life. Before freezing, make sure the pie has cooled completely.

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Properly stored, a frozen pumpkin pie can last up to a month. When ready to eat it, thaw the pie in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.

Heating it in the oven briefly can also help it regain some of its fresh-baked taste and texture.

How To Tell If Pumpkin Pie Is Bad?

Sour or Off Smell: A fresh pumpkin pie will have a sweet and spicy aroma. If it smells sour, rotten, or just “off,” it’s a sign that it might be spoiled.
Mold Growth: Check the surface of the pie. Any mold spots, no matter how small, indicate that the pie is no longer safe to eat.
Changes in Texture: If the pie filling becomes overly watery or has a strange, slimy texture, it’s best not to consume it.
Discoloration: While some color changes might be due to natural oxidation, any unusual discolorations, especially green, blue, or black, are indicators of mold or spoilage.
Taste: If you’re unsure about the pie’s freshness and decide to taste a bit, any sour or unusual flavor is a clear sign it’s gone bad.
Passed Expiry Date: If your pie came with an expiration date (often on store-bought pies) and passed, it’s better to be safe and avoid consumption, even if the pie looks okay.

“In the dance of time and flavor, Costco’s pumpkin pies lead with a week’s grace, but their encore in memory lasts forever.”
– Leonelli Bakery

Check out these steps to thicken your pumpkin pie filling here.

Tips On How To Store Costco Pumpkin Pies

Cool Completely: Before storing, ensure the pie has cooled to room temperature to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Refrigerate: If you eat the pie within a week, place it in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents bacterial growth.
Use Airtight Containers: If storing in the refrigerator, consider placing the pie in an airtight container to preserve its taste and texture.
Cover with Plastic Wrap or Foil: If you don’t have an airtight container, wrap the pie tightly in plastic or aluminum foil to protect it from external odors and moisture.
Freeze for Longer Storage: If you want to keep the pie for over a week, freeze it. Remember to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Label and Date: If freezing, place a label with the date on the pie or container. This way, you’ll remember when it was stored and use it within a month for the best taste.
Thawing: When ready to eat a frozen pie, thaw it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to ensure even thawing [2] and to maintain its texture.
Serve Chilled or Warm: After refrigerating or thawing, you can serve the pie chilled or warm it in the oven to get a fresh-baked feel.
Avoid Frequent Temperature Changes: Avoid moving the pie in and out of the fridge or freezer too often, affecting its quality.
Consume Promptly: Even with the best storage practices, consuming the pie within the recommended time frames is advisable to enjoy its best taste and texture.

Read:

FAQs

Is Costco pumpkin pie made with real pumpkin?

Yes, Costco pumpkin pie is made with real pumpkin. The pies typically use a blend of pumpkins to achieve their signature taste and texture.

Find out if pumpkin and chocolate go well together here.

How do you cut Costco pumpkin pie?

To cut a Costco pumpkin pie, use a sharp knife and make a small incision in the center. Then, slice from the center outward to the edge, creating even wedge-shaped portions.

Clean the knife between slices for cleaner cuts. You can cut the pie into 6 to 8 pieces, depending on the size of the slices you prefer.

But how can you keep pumpkin pie from cracking?

Final Thoughts

With their rich flavor and creamy texture, Costco pumpkin pies are a beloved treat for many. They maintain their best quality for about 2 to 3 days when stored at room temperature.

Refrigeration extends their freshness to about a week. For those looking to savor them even longer, freezing offers a solution, allowing enjoyment up to a month later.

Proper storage, timely consumption, and keen attention to signs of spoilage ensure that each slice remains as delightful as the first.

So, whether indulging in a seasonal treat or satisfying a spontaneous craving, handling your Costco pumpkin pie with care guarantees a delicious experience.

References:

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/23439/perfect-pumpkin-pie/
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/big-thaw-safe-defrosting-methods

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Lori Walker

Lori is a self-taught baker and former owner of a successful bakery. She shares her love for baking through her blog, featuring delicious recipes, baking tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at running a bakery. You can speak with her directly at [email protected].