Cherry Pie

A fresh, homemade cherry pie can last up to 2 days at room temperature, but you can extend the freshness and retain the tasty goodness by refrigerating it, which can last up to 4 to 5 days. If you've bought a canned or frozen pie from the store, unopened and stored properly at room temperature, it can last up to 6 to 9 months. However, once opened or thawed, consume it within 2 to 3 days. If you choose to freeze an already baked cherry pie, it will stay good for up to 6 to 8 months.

One surefire way to tell if your cherry pie is past its prime is by smelling it. Off or unusual odors are a clear sign the pie may be spoiled. Additionally, any visible mold or any change in the texture can also be cues; these changes are typically easy to spot on the crust. Lastly, discolored cherries indicate that the pie has gone bad. If in doubt, it's always safer to discard the pie.

• Always cool your homemade cherry pie completely before storage to prevent the buildup of condensation and growth of bacteria. • In refrigeration or freezing, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from drying it out and to maintain its freshness. • When you decide to eat your frozen pie, defrost it in the refrigerator for several hours or even overnight to maintain its structure and flavor. Don't try to defrost it in the microwave, as it can degrade the texture of the pie crust. • Storing pies in glass or ceramic containers with lids can help to extend the shelf life as these are non-reactive and can keep the pie fresh. • If you eat the pie frequently, consider cutting it into smaller portions when freezing. This will allow you to thaw only the amount you need, avoiding repetitive freeze-thaw cycles, which can affect the quality.