Yes, sweet potato pie can go bad in the fridge if left for too long. Like most foods, sweet potato pie has a limited shelf life and will eventually spoil. However, refrigeration can help extend the life of sweet potato pie significantly.
How long does sweet potato pie last in the fridge?
Properly stored, sweet potato pie will typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Pies with custard fillings may only last 2-3 days. Here are some general guidelines for how long sweet potato pie lasts refrigerated:
- Freshly baked sweet potato pie: 3-4 days
- Store-bought sweet potato pie: 3-5 days (check packaging)
- Sweet potato pie with custard filling: 2-3 days
These timelines assume the pie is stored properly covered in the refrigerator. Storing pie unwrapped or in warmer parts of the fridge may decrease its shelf life. Freezing pie can extend its shelf life to 2-3 months.
How to tell if sweet potato pie has gone bad
Here are some signs that sweet potato pie has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat:
- Mold growth on the surface
- Dry, cracked filling
- Off odors, such as sourness or alcohol scents
- Bitter, unpleasant taste
- Discoloration, especially green tinges
- Weeping liquid or an oily appearance
The filling of a spoiled sweet potato pie may appear sunken, watery, or separated. If your pie exhibits any of these signs, it should be discarded.
How to store sweet potato pie properly
Follow these tips for maximizing the shelf life of refrigerated sweet potato pie:
- Allow pie to cool completely before refrigerating
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil
- Store pie on a shelf rather than in a fridge door
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of baking or buying
- Avoid storing for longer than 3-4 days
- Do not freeze pie after it has been refrigerated
Proper storage slows mold growth and prevents the pie filling from drying out. Date your pie and check it regularly so you can catch any spoilage early.
Can you eat spoiled sweet potato pie?
It is not recommended to eat sweet potato pie that has spoiled. Eating spoiled pie can cause foodborne illness. The bacteria, molds, and other microbes that cause food spoilage can produce toxins that lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. Discard sweet potato pie at the first signs of spoilage.
How long can sweet potato pie sit out?
Sweet potato pie should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After sitting out for more than 2 hours, the pie must be refrigerated or discarded. Like other custard and cream pies, sweet potato pie is prone to rapid spoilage at room temp. Bacteria grow quickly on perishable fillings when left out too long.
Can you freeze sweet potato pie?
Yes, sweet potato pie can be frozen to extend its shelf life. To freeze sweet potato pie:
- Allow pie to cool completely first
- Double wrap pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving
Freezing prevents spoilage but can cause some changes in texture. Thaw gently and avoid refreezing pie after thawing.
Can you refrigerate pumpkin pie and sweet potato pie together?
Yes, pumpkin pie and sweet potato pie can be refrigerated together. Since these pies have a similar ingredient make-up and texture, they have comparable storage needs. As long as both pies were freshly baked and properly stored, they can be kept in the same refrigerator together. Place each pie on its own plate and cover tightly before refrigerating. Store for no more than 3-4 days for best quality and safety.
Conclusion
Sweet potato pie can last 3-4 days refrigerated but will eventually spoil if kept too long. Signs of spoiled pie include mold, off smells, changes in color or texture, and an unpleasant taste. Prevent spoilage by refrigerating pie within 2 hours of baking, storing in a sealed container, monitoring freshness, and freezing for longer storage. Discard pie at the first signs of spoilage.