Does Pumpkin Pie *Really* Need to Be Refrigerated?
So, you’re planning your Thanksgiving desserts and pumpkin pie is a top contender. We don’t blame you—the classic fall pie is must-have for many Thanksgiving menus. Not only is it lusciously creamy and warmly spiced, but it’s also great for making ahead. Which is a lifesaver when it comes to holiday dinners. But if you’ve made your pumpkin pie in advance, you might be wondering: Does pumpkin pie need to be refrigerated? After all, that’s precious space that could be reserved for your make-ahead Thanksgiving sides! Even if you don’t make your pumpkin pie early, the chances are, you’ll likely have a few slices of leftover pumpkin pie after the feast. In which case, you’ll still want to know if pumpkin pie needs to be refrigerated.
The quick answer to this holiday conundrum: Yes, you should refrigerate your pumpkin pie. But there’s more to it than just that. Pumpkin pie is a custard pie that can be easily made with store-bought pie dough and canned pumpkin filling. But it can also be made completely from scratch with homemade pumpkin puree and a buttery pie crust. It’s also made with milk and eggs. Because of that it’s best to refrigerate your pumpkin pie after it’s had a chance to cool completely.
You can think of pumpkin pie as being similar to quiches, cheesecakes, or egg dishes. (No one wants to eat an egg dish that’s been sitting out overnight!) So how long can pumpkin pie actually sit out for and why is it that you sometimes see pumpkin pie not refrigerated at the grocery store? We’ve got the answers to all those questions and more.
How long can pumpkin pie be left out of the refrigerator?
Don't worry—you can leave your pumpkin pie out on the table during dessert! The FDA’s official stance is that homemade pumpkin pie is OK at room temperature for up to two hours. That's plenty of time for you to linger over dessert! Just note: The two-hour window doesn't include the time needed to let a freshly baked pie cool completely, which is also important for food safety. If the pie hasn’t been properly cooled and you put it in the fridge, not only do you risk a soggy crust or weeping (water droplets) on the surface of your pie, you’re also creating the perfect storm of moist, lukewarm conditions for bacteria to breed—yuck!
Why are store-bought pumpkin pies not refrigerated?
This is the exception to the rule. Commercially-produced pumpkin pies are typically made with preservatives that allow them to remain shelf-stable for longer at room temperature. Most store-bought pies will include a sell-by date, which gives you an idea of how long they will remain safe to eat—even stored at room temperature. Pumpkin pies purchased at a bakery are a little trickier: If they’re made with only fresh ingredients, similar to a homemade pie, you’ll want to refrigerate them, but if preservatives are used, treat them like grocery store pies. For your own safety and that of your guests, ask to be sure!
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