How long does cookie dough last in the fridge? | Preserve

Do you have a batch of cookie dough that’s been sitting in the fridge for days and are wondering how long it can last? You’re not alone. Many people find themselves asking this same question, but don’t worry – there is an answer! Knowing the shelf life of refrigerator-stored cookie dough helps you avoid wasting ingredients or making food unsafe to eat. In this blog post, we’ll explore just exactly how long does cookie dough last in the fridge so you can make sure your next creation tastes as delicious as possible.

Why put cookie dough in the fridge?

Putting cookie dough in the fridge has a few key benefits. Firstly, it helps to keep the butter from melting and makes it easier to shape. It also helps slow down the growth of bacteria or other micro-organisms that could spoil your dough. Finally, by keeping cookie dough refrigerated you can extend its shelf life so you can enjoy fresh, delicious cookies for longer.

How long does cookie dough last in the fridge?

So, how long does cookie dough last in the fridge? Generally speaking, if you store raw cookie dough in the fridge, it can last up to 5 days. If you cook your cookies beforehand and then put them in the fridge, they’ll usually stay good for about 1 week. Store-bought cookie dough that is already cooked should last 2-3 weeks in the fridge if it has been stored properly. If you plan on eating cookie dough that is uncooked or raw, make sure to use pasteurized eggs and a quality commercial grade flour for the safest option.

What happens if you refrigerate cookie dough too long?

If you leave cookie dough in the fridge for too long, it can become dry and hard. The longer it stays in the fridge, the more likely bacteria will start to grow on the surface of the dough. This could mean that when you finally bake your cookies, they could have a sour or off-taste due to bacterial contamination. Additionally, if you’re using store-bought cookie dough that has already been cooked, it could become moldy or otherwise spoiled after being in the fridge for too long.

Factors that affect the shelf life of cookie dough in the fridge

The shelf life of cookie dough will vary depending on the ingredients used and the temperature of your refrigerator. If you have a warmer fridge, it can cause the butter in the dough to start melting, which could decrease its shelf life. Additionally, if you’re using eggs or milk in your recipe that has gone bad, this could also affect how long the dough stays safe to eat. To be safe, always check your ingredients before using them and store the dough at a temperature of 40°F or lower.

Signs that cookie dough has gone bad

When cookie dough has gone bad, it will usually have a sour or rancid smell and may look discolored. Additionally, if you see mold growing on the surface of the dough, this is a sign that it should not be eaten. If you’re unsure about whether your cookie dough is still good to eat, it’s best to throw it out and make a new batch.

How to store cookie dough in the fridge?

When storing cookie dough in the fridge, it’s important to make sure that it’s covered or stored in an airtight container. This helps keep out excess moisture and prevents bacteria from growing on the surface of the dough. If you have a large batch of cookie dough, consider dividing it up into smaller portions so you can use it more quickly. This will help keep the dough fresher for longer and prevent it from going to waste.

How to use cookie dough after it has been refrigerated?

If you’ve kept your cookie dough in the fridge for a few days, it may need to be kneaded or worked before you can use it. This helps make sure that all of the ingredients are evenly distributed and that any bacteria on the surface has been killed off. If you’re using store-bought cookie dough that has already been cooked, you can usually just bake it without any additional preparation.

Conclusion: How long does cookie dough last in the fridge

Refrigerating cookie dough is a great way to ensure that you have fresh, delicious cookies anytime you need them. Generally speaking, raw cookie dough can last up to 5 days in the fridge and cooked store-bought cookie dough can stay good for 2-3 weeks if stored properly. However, it’s important to check your ingredients and be aware of the signs that your cookie dough has gone bad. Additionally, make sure to store your dough in an airtight container and consider dividing it into smaller portions so you can use it more quickly. With these tips, you’ll have delicious cookies anytime.

FAQ: cookie dough 

Can you freeze cookie dough?

Freeze cookie dough for fresh-baked treats anytime. Most doughs keep for 3 months in the freezer.

Does freezing cookie dough change the texture?

If you’ve ever wondered whether freezing cookie dough negatively impacts the texture, the answer is yes. After being frozen for an extended period, the butter in the dough starts to separate from the other ingredients, leading to a grainy or crumbly texture when baked. Avoid unpleasant surprises by following our advice on proper storage methods.

Is it ok to leave cookie dough in the fridge for a week?

Extend your cookie dough’s shelf life: store it in the fridge for up to one week. As per Better Home & Gardens, all kinds of cookie dough (except meringue and cookie bar batters) can be refrigerated in an airtight container.

What happens if I eat expired cookie dough?

Don’t risk it – eating expired cookie dough may result in food poisoning. This can cause several unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Plus, refrigerated dough past its expiration date can even change color, smell, and taste, leading to digestive distress. Stay safe and avoid expired cookie dough.

Is it safe to eat raw cookie dough?

Be cautious about eating or handling raw dough. Raw flour and eggs may contain harmful germs that can make you sick. It’s best to avoid letting children play with dough and to wash your hands and surfaces after working with raw ingredients. Stay safe and healthy.

How long should you refrigerate cookie dough before baking?

Get the perfect cookie every time: chill your dough for an hour before baking to make scooping and shaping easier, and for perfectly even cookie texture and flavor.

Does freezing cookie dough make them chewy?

Cooling your dough for just 30 minutes in either your fridge or freezer can make a significant difference in the texture and taste of your cookies. By giving your butter a chance to firm up, your cookies will brown better, spread less, and develop a richer chewiness. Don’t miss out on this simple trick to take your cookies to the next level.

How do you moisten refrigerated cookie dough?

Improve the texture of your refrigerated cookie dough with these easy tips. Adding ingredients like milk, egg yolks, egg whites, vanilla extract, or even a teaspoon of water can help combat crumbly cookies. Plus, adding just a touch of liquid, like milk, can help your cookies spread and achieve a crispy finish in the oven.

Does freezing cookie dough make it less sticky?

Want perfect, fuss-free cookies every time? Freeze your cookie dough. Not only will it be less sticky and easier to handle, but the longer you freeze it, the firmer it will become. Just give the dough a few extra minutes to come to room temperature before rolling it out, and voila – beautifully shaped cookies that won’t stick or crumble while baking.

At what temperature is cookie dough safe to eat?

Wondering about the safety of eating uncooked cookie dough? The answer is simple- just bake or microwave the flour until it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is effective in killing any harmful pathogens.