We all love cupcakes, and that’s why they are an indispensable part of many events and parties. In gatherings like these, it makes sense to prepare them in advance, as we often need them in large quantities. However, preparing such large quantities can result in leftovers once the party is over. In both scenarios, it’s crucial to keep them fresh.
In this blog, we will provide the best tips on how to keep cupcakes fresh by storing them correctly. That way, this can remain a great last-minute treat when you have guests over, or you just want to treat yourself!
How Long Can Cupcakes Stay Fresh?
This is a question that depends on many factors. Cupcakes can quickly dry out and lose their taste when we serve them if we don't take proper care of them. However, as a general rule of thumb, we should always store homemade cupcakes in an airtight container and away from sunlight, as this helps to keep them moist.
These are simple steps on how to keep cupcakes fresh and prevent them from drying out.
But let's go in order.
How to Keep Cupcakes Without Icing Fresh?
Making cupcakes without icing is the perfect way to do it when you're short on time in the day. You can bake the cupcakes one day and then put icing mixes on them the next. However, it is necessary to ensure that they remain fresh and moist until the next day. These storing tips for keeping cupcakes fresh will work for sure:
1. Allow the Cupcakes to Cool Completely
It is crucial to let the cupcakes cool completely before storing them. After baking, place the cupcakes on a cooling rack and let them sit for at least an hour or until they are entirely cooled. You can determine this by touching them. If the cupcakes are still warm, they will release steam when placed in an airtight container. This can cause sticky tops, making it challenging to apply icing mixes and causing the cupcakes to come off their base.
2. Store the Cooled Cupcakes in an Airtight Container
Place the completely cooled cupcakes in a deep airtight container. This means in a storage container with a tightly closed lid. Since the cupcakes don't have any icing, you can stack them on top of each other, separating them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Don’t cover the cupcakes with plastic wrap, as this will give them too little space to breathe, which can lead to sticky tops or even drying out. Using a hard container will provide much better protection and help prevent the cupcakes from getting crushed.
3. Store the Cupcakes at Room Temperature, Away From Sunlight
To keep your cupcakes fresh for up to 2-3 days, it's best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from sunlight. This will ensure that they stay moist and delicious, and are ready to eat whenever you want them. Plus, it will make it easier to add icing without melting or becoming too soft.
4. Storing Cupcakes in the Fridge
Cupcakes are best consumed within 48 hours of being baked. Therefore, it is recommended to store the cupcakes at room temperature for the first two days. Storing them in the fridge right away will lead to dryness. After two days, you can store them in the fridge to keep them fresh for an additional 5-6 days. Before serving cupcakes from the fridge, it is advisable to warm them back to room temperature.
5. Freezing the Cupcakes
To freeze cupcakes, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a ziplock or freezer bag. Then freeze cupcakes for up to 3 months. When you are ready to serve them, remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bring them to room temperature for about an hour before serving. This will ensure that they are ready to eat and taste delicious.
How to Keep Cupcakes With Icing Fresh?
Storing cupcakes with icing is very similar to storing cupcakes without icing.
1. Store the Cooled Cupcakes at Room Temperature
Here we can go back to the first and second points of how to keep cupcakes without icing fresh. The procedure is the same - place the completely cooled cupcakes in a deep airtight container for a day or two at room temperature and away from the sun. This works for cupcakes covered with buttercream or ganache, while it definitely won't work for cupcakes with whipped cream icing. The cream would melt at room temperature, and at the same time, it would become inedible. In the case of such perishable products as cream, it is better to keep the cupcakes in the fridge at all times.
But be careful! You should use a container that is high enough to avoid damaging the icing. If you plan to add edible toppings, it is better to add them after you have placed the cupcakes in the container to avoid any mess on your counter.
2. Storing Cupcakes with Icing in the Fridge
It is recommended to avoid storing cupcakes with icing in the fridge unless you have used whipped cream or cream cheese icing that can spoil. Also, if you don't eat cupcakes within two days, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days.
Before sealing the container, it's best to gently place a layer of plastic wrap over the cupcakes to prevent air from getting in and to keep them fresh.
3. Freezing Cupcakes with Icing
Freezing is the best way to keep cupcakes fresh. However, there are some important things to keep in mind.
First, make sure that the icing on the cupcakes has already hardened before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in the freezer. This will prevent the icing from getting ruined during the freezing process. It's best to freeze cupcakes with icing made of buttercream, ganache, and cream cheese. But if you have cupcakes with whipped cream, it's better to freeze them without it and add the cream on the day you serve them. This is because the texture of whipped cream changes during defrosting and can sometimes be unpleasant to eat.
When you're ready to eat the frozen cupcakes, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, let them come to room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Don't refreeze the cupcakes once you've taken them out of the freezer. Store them in an airtight container and consume them within a few days.
How to Keep Store-Bought Cupcakes Fresh?
When it comes to keeping store-bought cupcakes fresh, the best way is to store them in their original packaging until you are ready to serve them. This applies to cupcakes with buttercream, ganache, and royal icing as well. You can keep them at room temperature in the same packaging for up to one day, or in the fridge for up to four days.
If you have cream cheese or whipped cream cupcakes, it's important to keep them in the fridge at all times.
In case you accidentally tear the packaging or have opened it and want to save the cupcakes leftovers, it is recommended to store them in an airtight container. The steps are the same as mentioned above.
Conclusion
To keep your cupcakes fresh, it's important to let them cool completely before storing them at room temperature, in the fridge, or freezer.
Moreover, for extended freshness, consider using buttercream icing.