Oatmeal Creme Pie

A store-bought packaged Oatmeal Creme Pie often has a shelf life of 7-10 days past the 'best by' date if unopened. Once opened, try to consume the pie within 1-2 days. A homemade Oatmeal Creme Pie without preservatives should be enjoyed within 2-3 days if kept at room temperature, or it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for longer storage.

An easy way to tell if your Oatmeal Creme Pie has gone bad is to check for any changes in color or smell. A fresh pie will have a sweet, oatmeal cookie aroma, while a spoiled pie might develop a sour, off-putting smell. The creme filling may appear discolored or develop mold if it's not fresh. Also, if the cookie becomes extremely hard, it's past its peak and won't taste as great.

• Always store your Oatmeal Creme Pie in a cool, dry place. • For store-bought pies, keep them sealed in their original packaging until you're ready to eat them. Once opened, it's best to wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. • For homemade pies, place them in an airtight container lined with slightly crumpled parchment paper. This helps to absorb any excess moisture and extends the shelf life. • If you're planning to have the pie later, freezing is an option! Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. Remember to label the wrapped pies with the date and consume within 3 months. To defrost, simply leave them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.