Is Refrigeration Required for Pumpkin Pie?

During Thanksgiving dinner, few desserts are as eagerly awaited as the beloved pumpkin pie. This treat is simple to prepare and can be made in advance. However, unlike many other baked goods, pumpkin pie cannot remain at room temperature indefinitely and must be stored in the refrigerator. Below, we explain how long it can stay out, the distinctions between homemade and store-bought pies, proper storage methods, and more.

Does Pumpkin Pie Require Refrigeration?

The USDA states that all "homemade pies containing eggs," such as pumpkin, pecan, custard, and meringue pies, must be refrigerated after baking and cooling. Due to its egg and dairy content, pumpkin pie needs refrigeration to maintain freshness.

Failing to refrigerate pumpkin pie can be hazardous, as the eggs and dairy in the filling can foster the growth of harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. Without refrigeration, the pie's moist, nutrient-rich environment can enter the “Danger Zone” (between 40°F and 140°F), accelerating bacterial growth.

How Long Can Pumpkin Pie Stay Out at Room Temperature?

First, it's important to note that homemade pumpkin pies are more perishable than, for instance, homemade apple pies, as they contain multiple eggs and heavy cream. Treat your pumpkin pie similarly to how you would handle a quiche. The FDA advises that homemade pumpkin pie can remain at room temperature for up to two hours before it becomes susceptible to harmful bacterial growth.

"Pumpkin pie is essentially a custard pie," explained Valeri Lucks, founding partner and CEO of PIE Incorporated. "Homemade versions must be refrigerated because they lack the preservatives used by commercial bakeries to ensure safety at room temperature."

Why Don’t Store-Bought Pies Require Refrigeration?

This leads many to wonder: Why are grocery store pumpkin pies displayed unrefrigerated? Store-bought pies contain shelf-stable ingredients, including preservatives, which extend their shelf life even at room temperature. If your pie was sold unrefrigerated, it can safely remain on your counter until the sell-by date.

Typically, store-bought pies remain fresh for about two to four days past their printed date when refrigerated and six to nine months when frozen. If your pumpkin pie lacks a sell-by date and was purchased from a bakery or a place that prepared it traditionally (without preservatives), adhere to the guidelines for homemade pumpkin pies mentioned earlier.

How to Properly Store Pumpkin Pie

Homemade pumpkin pie stays fresh in the refrigerator for two to four days and should be refrigerated as soon as it cools. Store the pie in an airtight container or cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil. If you prefer serving it at room temperature, remove it from the fridge an hour before serving—but never leave it out for more than two hours.

Is Freezing Pumpkin Pie an Option?

You can prepare your pumpkin pie weeks in advance and freeze it. A frozen pumpkin pie remains fresh for up to one month and requires 12 hours to thaw in the refrigerator.

If you’ve frozen a pumpkin pie and are ready to enjoy it, remove it from the freezer and allow it to defrost for serving. Thawing a pumpkin pie takes at least 12 hours. Remove all plastic wrap or foil and let it thaw in the fridge to prevent bacterial growth and avoid a soggy crust.

How Can I Tell If My Pie Is Still Fresh?

There are several ways to determine if your pumpkin pie has spoiled. Discard the pie if it emits a foul odor, shows signs of excessive separation or weeping, or has visible mold. Any homemade pie left out for more than two hours should be thrown away, regardless of its appearance.

If your pumpkin pie has been left out too long, don’t take any chances. Thanksgiving is about more than just pie—it’s about gratitude, family, and friends, none of whom want to risk getting sick!