How Bad Is It To Store Pecan Pie On The Counter?
Thanksgiving is the ultimate pie holiday. Other than the classic pumpkin pie, there's no other pie that says Turkey Day like a rich and nutty pecan pie. From pecan pie bars and pound cake to salted caramel pecan pie and pecan pie cheesecake, the nut really shines over the holidays.
But when you're hosting for Thanksgiving, you're probably doing a lot of prep ahead of time to save yourself the stress on the day of your gathering. There's also a chance you might end up with leftovers—so you likely will need to set your pecan pie aside to enjoy later.
Whether yours is store-bought or homemade, you'll want to make sure you store it properly to keep you and your guests safe. We consulted chefs and health experts to unpack everything you need to know about storing your holiday desserts.
Should Pecan Pie Be Refrigerated?
You may not realize it, but pecan pie filling actually contains eggs. The USDA recommends all pies rich in eggs and custard to be refrigerated after they've cooled. This includes pumpkin pie, lemon meringue pie, banana cream pie, and, yes, pecan pie. If you bought your pie, it may contain preservatives, so be sure to check with the store or take a peek at the label for proper storage instructions.
There are, however, dissenting opinions on this. Chef and Certified Master Baker Genevieve Meli, lecturing instructor in baking and pastry at the Culinary Institute of America, said that she wouldn't refrigerate pecan pie. According to Meli, pecan pie will be able to be safely eaten for two days left out of the fridge.
“Pies with egg in the filling such as pumpkin and pecan are best consumed when they are left out at room temperature—the pastry filling doesn’t taste great when cold!" said Ron Silver, chef and owner of Bubby's, a restaurant and pie shop in New York City. "You can let them sit out for up to two days and then you’ll want to cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate them, where they usually last up to four days."
Silver said that double-crusted fruit pies can also be left out out at room temperature for two days and then stored loosely covered in the refrigerator for up to a week. They should, however, be reheated in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
"All pies are great to eat and make, but taking care of them after they are baked is just as important as making the pies," said Meli. "Knowing how to store them properly is key!"
So to put it plainly: health experts say you should keep your pie in the fridge. But if you're planning on eating your leftovers sooner rather than later, chefs often agree that you can get away with keeping them on the counter (just be aware of the potential risk of foodborne illness).
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