Expiration & Storage Tips
When does buttercream frosting expire?
Buttercream frosting is typically good for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator if it is store-bought and unopened. Once opened, it's best to use it within 7 to 10 days. If you've made homemade buttercream frosting, it can last 3 to 5 days in the fridge. If you choose to freeze the frosting, it can last up to 3 months.
How do you tell if buttercream frosting is bad?
Detecting if buttercream frosting has gone bad isn't too difficult. First off, smell it. If it has an unpleasant or rancid odor, it's best to throw it away. Also, look for signs of mold, which can appear as fuzzy spots in various colors. If the frosting has started to separate or has an off texture, it may have gone bad too.
Tips for storing buttercream frosting to extend shelf life
• Always store buttercream frosting in an airtight container to prevent the absorption of odors from other foods in the fridge.
• If you're not going to use it immediately, consider freezing the frosting. Just remember to place it in a freezer-safe container.
• Before using the frosting, allow it to come to room temperature and give it a good stir to help restore its creaminess.
• If you've already applied the frosting on a cake or similar, store the entire item in a cake carrier or use a large bowl turned upside down as a cover to keep the refrigerator odors away from it, and increase its lifespan.