Coffee cake is a beloved baked good enjoyed at breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon treat. But once it’s baked or opened, an important question comes up: how long does coffee cake last?
The answer depends on how it’s stored, the ingredients used, and whether it’s homemade or store-bought. In this complete guide, you’ll learn exactly how long coffee cake lasts at room temperature, in the fridge, and in the freezer, plus how to tell if it has gone bad and how to keep it fresh longer.
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How Long Does Coffee Cake Last at Room Temperature?
On average, coffee cake lasts 1–2 days at room temperature when stored properly.
Coffee Cake Shelf Life on the Counter
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Homemade coffee cake: 1–2 days
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Store-bought or bakery coffee cake: up to 2 days
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Coffee cake with streusel topping: 1–2 days
To maximize shelf life:
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Store coffee cake in an airtight container
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Keep it in a cool, dry place
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Avoid exposure to heat and humidity
If the coffee cake contains cream cheese or fresh fruit, it should not be left out overnight.
How Long Does Coffee Cake Last in the Refrigerator?
Refrigeration significantly extends freshness.
Coffee Cake Shelf Life in the Fridge
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Homemade coffee cake: 5–7 days
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Store-bought coffee cake: 5–7 days
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Cream cheese coffee cake: up to 7 days (must be refrigerated)
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Fruit coffee cake: 4–6 days
While refrigeration helps prevent mold growth, it may slightly dry out the cake. Wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container helps preserve moisture.
How Long Does Coffee Cake Last in the Freezer?
Freezing is the best way to extend coffee cake shelf life.
Coffee Cake Shelf Life in the Freezer
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Whole coffee cake: up to 3 months
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Sliced coffee cake: 2–3 months
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Crumb or streusel coffee cake: up to 3 months
How to Freeze Coffee Cake Properly
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Let the cake cool completely
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Wrap tightly in plastic wrap
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Add a second layer of aluminum foil or freezer bag
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Label with the freezing date
When ready to eat, thaw coffee cake at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.
Coffee Cake Shelf Life by Type
How Long Does Homemade Coffee Cake Last?
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Room temperature: 1–2 days
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Refrigerator: 5–7 days
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Freezer: up to 3 months
How Long Does Store-Bought Coffee Cake Last?
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Room temperature: 2 days
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Refrigerator: 5–7 days
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Freezer: 2–3 months
Store-bought coffee cake may last slightly longer due to preservatives, but once opened, storage rules are similar to homemade versions.
How Long Does Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Last?
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Must be refrigerated
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Shelf life: 5–7 days
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Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours
How Long Does Coffee Cake with Fruit Last?
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Refrigerator: 4–6 days
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Freezer: up to 2 months
Fruit fillings increase moisture, which can shorten shelf life.
How to Store Coffee Cake Properly
Best Storage Methods
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Room temperature: Airtight container
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Refrigerator: Plastic wrap + airtight container
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Freezer: Double wrap (plastic + foil)
What to Avoid
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Leaving coffee cake uncovered
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Storing near heat sources
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Refrigerating without proper wrapping
How to Tell If Coffee Cake Has Gone Bad
Coffee cake goes bad primarily due to mold and moisture buildup.
Signs Coffee Cake Is Spoiled
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Visible mold (green, white, or black spots)
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Sour or off smell
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Slimy or overly dry texture
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Unusual taste
If you see mold, discard the entire cake. Do not attempt to cut around it.
Can You Eat Coffee Cake After the Expiration Date?
If stored properly, coffee cake may still be safe shortly after the best-by date, but always check for:
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Mold
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Smell changes
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Texture issues
When in doubt, throw it out. Eating spoiled baked goods can cause foodborne illness.
How to Make Coffee Cake Last Longer
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Use airtight containers
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Refrigerate cakes with dairy or fruit
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Freeze extra portions immediately
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Slice before freezing for easy thawing
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Avoid excess moisture during baking
How to Thaw and Reheat Coffee Cake
Thawing
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Room temperature: 1–2 hours
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Refrigerator: Overnight
Reheating
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Oven: 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes
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Microwave: Short intervals (10–15 seconds)
Avoid overheating, which dries out the cake.
Frequently Asked Questions About Coffee Cake Shelf Life
How long does coffee cake last unrefrigerated?
1–2 days if it doesn’t contain cream cheese or fruit.
Does coffee cake need to be refrigerated?
Only if it contains cream cheese, fruit, or dairy-heavy fillings.
Can you freeze coffee cake?
Yes, coffee cake freezes well for up to 3 months.
Is coffee cake still good after 3 days?
At room temperature, usually no. In the fridge, yes.
Can old coffee cake make you sick?
Yes, especially if mold or spoilage is present.
Conclusion
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Room temperature: 1–2 days
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Refrigerator: 5–7 days
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Freezer: Up to 3 months
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Cream cheese or fruit coffee cake must be refrigerated
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Proper storage dramatically extends shelf life
