How Long Does Cake Last?
Baked cake, frosted or unfrosted, including layer cakes, sheet cakes, and bundt cakes.
The Short Answer
Cake lasts 5–7 days in the refrigerator when stored properly at 40°F or below. For longer storage, cake can be frozen for 2–4 months while maintaining good quality. At room temperature in the pantry, expect 1–3 days under normal conditions. These times are based on USDA food safety guidelines and assume proper storage conditions.
Storage Times at a Glance
Source: USDA FoodKeeper | Last verified: March 26, 2026 | Our methodology
Frosting type determines where you store cake. Buttercream and fondant are fine at room temperature for a day or two. Cream cheese frosting and whipped cream must be refrigerated. When in doubt, refrigerate.
How to Store Cake
Unfrosted cake can be stored at room temperature covered for 1-3 days. Frosted cake with buttercream can also be stored at room temperature for 1-2 days. Cakes with cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or custard filling must be refrigerated. Cover tightly to prevent drying out.
How to Tell if Cake Has Gone Bad
Look for these signs that cake has spoiled: mold, sour or off smell, dry and crumbly texture, stale taste, discolored spots
The Professor's rule: When in doubt, throw it out. No meal is worth food poisoning.
The Bottom Line
Properly stored cake stays safe for 5–7 days in the fridge. Always store in airtight containers, refrigerate within 2 hours of purchase or preparation, and trust your senses. If something looks, smells, or feels off, discard it regardless of how many days it has been. Freezing is always an option if you will not use it within the refrigerator window.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the frosting. Buttercream-frosted cake is fine at room temperature for 1-2 days. Cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, custard filling, or fruit filling requires refrigeration. Unfrosted cake stores well at room temperature for a few days.