Black Forest Cake

The rule of thumb for cakes like Black Forest is that it can last for about 1-2 days at normal room temperature, when sealed under a cake dome or similar cover. It should be consumed within this period if not put into the refrigerator. If refrigerated, it can last up to 5-7 days. The richness of the cream and cherries can start to sour if kept beyond this period. It can be frozen for up to two months, defrosting in the refrigerator a day before you plan to eat it.

When your Black Forest cake goes bad, you'll mainly notice a change in smell and texture. If you start to smell a sour or unpleasant odor, it's a definite sign the cake has turned. Also, if the cream filling has become runny or the cherry topping has lost its vibrancy, that's a sign too. Even slight discoloration, particularly green or yellow spots on cake or filling, means it's time to toss the cake out.

• Store the Black Forest cake in an airtight container before putting it in the refrigerator. This protects it from absorbing odors of other foods in the fridge. • If freezing, wrap the cake in plastic wrap first, then in foil to prevent freezer burn and to preserve the flavor. • Always defrost the cake in the refrigerator, rather than at room temperature, to prevent bacterial growth. • Do not store cake with high moisture content like Black Forest on the counter under a cake dome for an extended period. It's more susceptible to go stale or grow bacteria. • Serve the cake chilled. Since it has a cream filling, it can go bad quickly if served at room temperature for a long time.