How Long Does Fresh Whipped Cream Last? Answered (2023)

Last Updated on September 26, 2023 by Lori Walker

Freshly whipped cream is a delectable addition to desserts, coffee, and other sweet treats. However, if you’ve ever made too much-whipped cream or are wondering if you can make it ahead of time, you may be wondering how long it lasts.

While homemade whipped cream is a simple and easy recipe, it’s essential to store and use it correctly to ensure that it remains fresh and safe to consume.

We’ll check how long fresh whipped cream will last, how to store it properly and give some tips on how to tell if it has gone bad.

Table of Contents

How Long Is Fresh Whipped Cream Good For At Room Temperature?

Generally, whipped cream should not be kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Fresh whipped cream [1] should not be left at room temperature for an extended period, as it can quickly spoil and become unsafe to eat.

Bacteria can grow rapidly in dairy products when left at room temperature, and whipped cream is no exception.

If you need to leave your whipped cream out for a short period, it’s best to keep it in a cool place away from direct sunlight and to cover it with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent contamination.

But how long will a can of whipped cream last?

How Long Does It Last If Refrigerated?

Fresh whipped cream can last 5-7 days when properly refrigerated. To store whipped cream, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator as soon as possible.

It’s essential to keep whipped cream chilled at all times to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria [2], which can cause spoilage and illness.

“Whipped ganache is a great gateway icing if you’re slowly working into the vast world of egg-based buttercreams. It’s just a few ingredients far superior in flavor to the basic butter/sugar/milk frosting.”
– Claire Saffitz, American Food Writer

When storing whipped cream in the refrigerator, place it on the top shelf, where the temperature is the coldest.

Additionally, avoid storing whipped cream near foods with strong odors, as it can absorb these flavors and affect their taste.

Check out how long will frosting last in the refrigerator here.

Can You Freeze Fresh Whipped Cream?

Yes, you can freeze fresh whipped cream, but it may change in texture and consistency once thawed. When frozen and thawed, whipped cream becomes less fluffy and may develop a grainy or watery texture.

To freeze fresh whipped cream:

Transfer it to an airtight container, leaving at least ½ inch of space at the top for expansion.
Store the container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When ready to use, thaw the whipped cream in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Avoid thawing whipped cream in the microwave or at room temperature, as this can cause it to become soupy or lose its texture.

Once thawed, gently stir the whipped cream to restore its texture, and use it as desired.

While frozen whipped cream may not be as fluffy as freshly whipped cream, it can still be a convenient and tasty option for topping desserts and other treats. But is it okay to freeze pastry cream?

4 Signs That Your Fresh Whipped Cream Might Have Gone Bad

Discoloration: Fresh whipped cream that has gone bad may appear yellowish or slightly gray. This indicates that the cream has oxidized and is no longer fresh.
Separation: Whipped cream that has gone bad may separate, with liquid pooling at the bottom of the container. This is a sign that the cream has broken down and is no longer stable.
Sour smell: Fresh whipped cream that has gone bad may have a sour or off smell. This is a sign that bacteria have started to grow, and the cream is no longer safe to consume.
Mold or growth: Whipped cream with mold or visible growth should be discarded immediately. This is a sign that harmful bacteria or mold have started to grow and can cause illness if consumed.

5 Tips On How To Store It

Keep it cold: Fresh whipped cream should always be chilled to prevent bacteria growth. Once whipped, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator immediately.
Avoid exposure to air: To prevent the whipped cream from drying out, cover it with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. This will also prevent it from picking up any odors from other foods in the fridge.
Use a glass or metal container: Glass or metal containers are best for storing whipped cream because they are non-porous and won’t absorb odors or flavors from the cream.
Store on the top shelf of the refrigerator: The top shelf is the coldest part, making it the best place to store whipped cream. Avoid storing it in the door or the bottom shelf, where temperatures fluctuate more.
Freeze it: If you have leftover whipped cream you won’t use immediately, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Please place it in an airtight container and freeze it until ready to use. Be aware that the texture may change slightly when thawed.

Also Read: What Frosting Goes Well With Funfetti Cake?

FAQs

How do you keep homemade whipped cream stable?

Adding a stabilizing agent such as sugar, cornstarch, or gelatin is essential to keep homemade whipped cream stable. These ingredients help to thicken the cream and prevent it from deflating or breaking down.

Additionally, be sure to whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks, and avoid over-whipping, which can cause it to separate.

Finally, store the whipped cream in an airtight container and keep it chilled until ready to use. But how can you quickly thaw cool whip?

Can you whip fresh cream ahead of time?

Yes, you can whip fresh cream beforehand, but it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its texture and freshness.

However, it’s important to note that whipped cream may begin to lose its texture and deflate over time, mainly if it contains stabilizing ingredients.

Find out if you can put Cool Whip in the freezer or fridge here.

Final Thoughts

Fresh whipped cream is a delicious and versatile topping for desserts, coffee, and other sweet treats. Whipped cream can last 5-7 days in the refrigerator when stored and used correctly.

To extend its shelf life, it’s essential to store whipped cream in an airtight container and keep it chilled at all times. While whipped cream can be frozen for more extended storage, it may change in texture and consistency when thawed.

Additionally, it’s essential to watch for signs of spoilage, such as discoloration, separation, or a sour smell, and discard any whipped cream that appears to have gone wrong.

References:

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/18352/whipped-cream/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24494-bacteria

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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].