How Long Does Fresh Carrot Cake Last? [+ Storage Tips]

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No matter the time of year, carrot cakes are one of the most delicious treats. They’re a classic dessert loved by so many people. As the name suggests, it is mainly made of carrots and it is the perfect sweet treat with a combination of spices that makes it perfect for every occasion. 

You can find carrot cake in many stores, supermarkets, and bakeries. 

Yet, nothing tops a freshly homemade carrot cake prepared with lovingly-selected ingredients. It perfectly combines carrots and pecans, or other nuts with a mixture of eggs and dry ingredients that make it fluffy and moist. (You can always substitute some of these ingredients. For example, if you have a nut allergy —  skip those!)  

If you like making carrot cake at home, you will probably make a big batch that you can store for later. You can store carrot cakes for one day to four months depending on the storage conditions.

 

How Long Does Carrot Cake Last at Room Temperature?

If you like to keep your carrot cake out of the fridge, you can keep it on the countertop on a cake stand or cover for up to two days. 

This gorgeous round stand will store your carrot cake perfectly while adding a great decorative touch to your countertop.

If you choose to store your carrot cake in the pantry, wrap it in plastic or foil, or put it in a container with a lid to help maintain its freshness and moisture. However, if you are planning to keep it wrapped, make sure to add the icing when you are about to eat it.

Wherever you choose to store your carrot cake, you can still enjoy it, alone or with your loved ones, for up to two days after you bake or buy it.

However, you need to make sure the room temperature is not too warm or humid. 

An iced or frosted carrot cake is best kept in the refrigerator. Room temperature will cause the icing to fall apart and lose its shape. 

Related: Does Buttercream Frosting Need To Be Refrigerated?


How Long Does Carrot Cake Last in the Fridge?

Storing your carrot in the fridge is one of your best options. 

It can remain consumable for up to a week. 

The fridge works great for carrot cake storage even if it already has icing or frosting. However, even if you are storing your carrot cake in the fridge, it is best to wrap it with foil or to put it in a covered container. 

Before you eat it, let it come to room temperature.


How Long Does Carrot Cake Last In The Freezer?

If you would like to store your carrot cake for a long period of time, you need to put it in the freezer. 

At a low temperature, your carrot cake will remain completely fresh and moist for a period of four to six months. However, you need to make sure to wrap it tightly or put it in a freezer airbag. 

To keep the frosting firm and even on the top of the cake, refrigerate it for a few hours before you put it in the freezer.

When frozen at 0 °C/32°F or less, foods maintain their color, quality, taste, and vitamins. You want to get all the vitamins from your carrot cake, freeze it, so you can enjoy it even months after. 

Wondering what other foods you can freeze? Read our articles Can You Freeze Chicken Salad and Can You Freeze Smoked Salmon.


Conclusion

A slice of frosted carrot cake

If you end up baking or buying more cake than you can eat in one sitting, you can always store it to enjoy it later. At room temperature, carrot cake will remain safe for consumption for up to two days. Just make sure it’s wrapped or covered to prevent it from drying out. 

If you already iced your carrot cake, it is better to store it in the fridge. The cool temperature will help the cake to stay fresh longer and the icing to remain in a good shape. 

The freezer, on the other hand, offers you the option to store your carrot cake for months. You just need to make sure to wrap it tightly. 

Storing conditions are important when it comes to food. The wrong temperature or too much humidity can spoil your carrot cake. That is why it is important to store it properly so you can enjoy it even months later. 

As long as your carrot cake is well wrapped and well stored, it will last long enough for you to enjoy it on many occasions. 


Related Questions: 


How do I Know if my Carrot Cake is Still Safe for Consumption? 

As mentioned above, the right storage conditions will keep your carrot cake fresh and unspoiled for months. 

However, if you notice any change of color, appearance, or smell, it is safer to not consume the cake. If you see any signs of growing mold, make sure to discard the cake right away. 

 

Should I Store my Cake Uncut? 

It is generally better to keep your cake uncut until you are about to eat it. Individual slices risk spoiling rapidly (not to mention, drying out quicker!). 

If it is already cut, wrap each slice individually and put it in the fridge.  


How Should I Frost My Carrot Cake?

When it comes to frosting, cream cheese icing is the classic topping to your carrot cake. 

Mix your cream cheese with heavy cream and powdered sugar, and you’ll have the softest and creamiest frosting for your carrot cake. 

If you are not a big fan of frosting, you can always just add a little powdered sugar on top of your cake. 

In the mood for an extra fun frosting? 

You can find a recipe for funfetti frosting inside our article: How to Use a KitchenAid Mixer for Cake? (Just leave out the cocoa powder to keep it vanilla flavored. Chocolate frosting on carrot cake might not be as palatable!) 

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