Quick Answer
Pillsbury frosting can last 1-2 weeks unopened, 1 week refrigerated after opening, and 2-3 months frozen. The exact shelf life depends on the type of frosting and how it is stored. Ready-to-spread frosting and canned frosting last longer than refrigerated frosting tubes. Refrigerating or freezing frosting after opening extends its shelf life. Look for changes in texture, color, or smell to indicate frosting is no longer good.
How Long Does Unopened Pillsbury Frosting Last?
Unopened Pillsbury frosting lasts for 1-2 weeks past the “best by” date printed on the package when stored properly.
Here are the shelf lives for unopened Pillsbury frostings:
| Type of Frosting | Shelf Life Unopened |
| Refrigerated frosting tubes | 1-2 weeks past “best by” date |
| Ready-to-spread frosting (tub) | 1-2 months past “best by” date |
| Canned frosting | 1-2 years past “best by” date |
The “best by” date indicates when the frosting should be used for best flavor and texture. Frosting may still be safe to consume for a period after the “best by” date, but the quality declines over time.
Storing unopened frosting properly helps maximize its shelf life:
– Refrigerated frosting tubes should be left in the refrigerator.
– Ready-to-spread and canned frostings should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Avoid storing cans in hot places like near the oven.
High heat and humidity can accelerate food spoilage. Storing frosting in the right conditions gives the preservatives time to keep it from going bad.
How Long Does Opened Pillsbury Frosting Last?
Once opened, Pillsbury frosting lasts about 1 week in the refrigerator. The shelf life decreases quickly because microbes and molds can contaminate the frosting after exposure to air and double-dipping.
Here are some tips for storing opened frosting:
– Transfer any leftover frosting to an airtight container. Plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best.
– Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the frosting before sealing the container. This prevents air from contacting the frosting and forming mold.
– Refrigerate opened frosting tubes or tubs right away at 40°F or below. The cold temperature slows mold growth.
– Use a clean utensil each time to avoid introducing bacteria. Never double-dip a dirty utensil back into the frosting.
– Watch for changes in color, texture, and smell. Frosting can develop an off taste or visible mold when it goes bad.
Discard opened frosting if you see any mold, even if it’s just a small spot. Mold can spread invisible roots throughout soft foods. Don’t rely on smell alone since fungi growing in frosting may not produce a bad odor.
Does Refrigerating or Freezing Extend How Long Pillsbury Frosting Lasts?
Yes, refrigerating or freezing frosting extends its shelf life. The cold temperatures slow the growth of mold and bacteria.
Here’s how long Pillsbury frosting lasts in the refrigerator vs freezer:
| Type of Frosting | Refrigerator | Freezer |
| Unopened | 1-2 weeks past “best by” date | Does not improve shelf life |
| Opened | 1 week | 2-3 months |
For best quality, use refrigerated frosting within 5-7 days. Freeze any leftover frosting you won’t use within a week.
To freeze frosting:
– Transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container, allowing headspace for expansion. Plastic containers work well.
– Press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the lid to prevent freezer burn.
– Label container with the type and date.
– Freeze for up to 2-3 months at 0°F or below.
Thaw in the refrigerator before using to prevent condensation from making the frosting too thin. Stir well once thawed since moisture may separate and rise to the top.
How Can You Tell If Pillsbury Frosting Has Gone Bad?
Watch for these signs that indicate Pillsbury frosting has spoiled and is no longer good to eat:
– Changes in texture: Separated liquid, grainy, runny, or excess crystallization
– Changes in color: Unnatural darkening, grays, greens, or blues may indicate mold
– Mold growth: Visible fuzzy or stringy mold on the frosting, even just a spot
– Off odors: Sour, rancid, fermented, or unpleasant smell
– Off flavors: Soapy, bitter, or strange taste when sampling a small bite
Discard frosting immediately if you notice any of the above signs of spoilage. Don’t rely on smell alone since moldy frosting doesn’t always smell bad. When in doubt, throw it out.
Safely handling frosting can prevent foodborne illness. Always use clean utensils, wash hands before dipping, and store at proper temperatures. Never dip dirty utensils back into frosting after licking. Don’t let frosting sit out at room temperature for extended periods.
What Is The Best Way To Store Pillsbury Frosting?
Follow these tips for maximizing Pillsbury frosting’s shelf life during storage:
– Unopened: Store in a cool, dry place around 60-70°F. Avoid hot spots like near oven or in direct sunlight.
– Refrigerate: Keep refrigerated frosting tubes in original packaging until using.
– Opened: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Press plastic wrap onto surface before sealing lid.
– Freezing: Use airtight freezer containers. Allow headspace for expansion during freezing.
– Containers: Glass, plastic, or ceramic containers with tight-fitting lids work best. Avoid metal containers which can impart a taste.
– Shelf life: Label with frosting type and date to track shelf life. Use oldest first.
– Temperature: Refrigerate at 40°F or below. Freeze at 0°F or below. Monitor fridge and freezer temperatures.
– Clean tools: Always use clean utensils. Never double dip with used utensils. Wash hands before working with frosting.
Proper storage from the time of purchase through final use prevents premature spoilage. Keeping frosting refrigerated or frozen extends its shelf life after opening.
What Are Some Signs My Frosting Has Been Contaminated?
Watch for these warning signs that may mean your frosting has been contaminated with bacteria or mold:
– Unusual odors: Strong sour, fermented, rancid or other off smells
– Mold growth: Visible fuzzy or stringy mold threads, spots, or dots
– Color changes: Unnatural darkening, graying, greening or blue shades
– Texture changes: Thinner consistency, separated liquid, crystallized texture
– Bubbles or fizzing: Gas bubbles may indicate microbial fermentation
– Off flavors: Soapy, bitter, metallic or strange tastes when sampled
Discard frosting immediately if you notice any of the above signs of contamination. Do not taste questionable frosting. The toxins from some molds can cause illness.
When frosting shows contamination, check your refrigeration and storage practices. Always use clean utensils and do not double dip. Discard frosting left out over 2 hours. Ensure your fridge and freezer are operating at the proper cold temperatures.
Practice good hygiene and food safety when handling frosting. Wash hands before working with frosting. Avoid cross contamination by keeping frosting away from raw eggs, meat, and other foods. Refrigerate promptly in shallow airtight containers.
What Temperature Is Best For Storing Frosting?
Frosting should be stored at cold temperatures in the refrigerator or freezer for best preservation.
Here are the ideal storage temperatures:
– Refrigerator: Store frosting at 40°F or below. This cold temperature slows mold growth. Make sure your refrigerator can consistently hold this temperature or colder.
– Freezer: Freeze frosting at 0°F or below. Freezing puts bacteria and mold into dormant states to prevent spoilage. Monitor your freezer temperature.
– Room temperature: Avoid leaving frosting out for over 2 hours. Temperatures above 40°F allow rapid microbial growth.
– Cool, dry pantry: Unopened frosting can be stored for 1-2 weeks in a pantry around 60-70°F. Avoid hot spots near the oven.
– Hot car: Never leave frosting for hours in a hot car! Temperatures above 90°F promote fast deterioration.
Refrigerating opened frosting is highly recommended. The cold temperature gives you an extra 5-7 days before spoilage occurs. Freezing buys even more time, extending shelf life to 2-3 months.
Be diligent about monitoring refrigerator and freezer temperatures where frosting is stored. Use a thermometer to ensure the cold settings are working properly.
Can You Get Sick From Eating Expired Frosting?
It’s possible to get sick from eating frosting that is expired, spoiled, or contaminated with bacteria or mold. Sickness usually results from toxins produced by microbes as they multiply on old frosting.
Potential risks of eating bad frosting include:
– Food poisoning: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Caused by bacteria like Bacillus cereus, Salmonella.
– Allergic reaction: Coughing, skin rash, anaphylaxis in those allergic to mold.
– Infections: Fever, stomach pain from bacteria like E. coli, Staph.
– Mycotoxins: Neurological issues, organ damage from toxins secreted by mold. Long term low level exposure may increase risk of cancer.
Mold growing on frosting can be especially hazardous since the spores and toxins spread quickly in soft foods. Always discard frosting immediately at any signs of mold or spoilage.
Proper food handling and storage reduces the risk of microbial contamination. Keep frosting refrigerated, use clean tools, practice good hygiene, check expiration dates, and watch for signs of spoilage. When in doubt, throw it out.
Conclusion
Pillsbury frosting can last 1-2 weeks unopened, 1 week in the refrigerator after opening, and 2-3 months in the freezer. Ready-to-spread frosting and canned frosting last longer than refrigerated frosting tubes. Always store frosting properly in cool, dry places or refrigerated as recommended.
Monitor frosting for changes in color, texture, and smell. Discard immediately if you see any mold. Freezing extends the shelf life of opened frosting. With proper storage and handling, Pillsbury frosting can stay fresh and safe to enjoy within its expiration timeframe.
