How long can heavy cream stay fresh?

Heavy cream in your fridge is perfect for creating indulgent desserts, whipping up a flavorful pasta sauce for Friday night dinner, or even experimenting with homemade cheese. And don’t forget the creamy touch it adds to your morning coffee.

Heavy cream, or heavy whipping cream, is the rich, fatty portion of milk that rises to the surface thanks to its high fat content.

The FDA reports that heavy cream contains between 36% and 40% milk fat, giving it a luxurious texture and taste perfect for enhancing sauces, soups, and rich desserts. It also has an advantage over half-and-half, as it won’t curdle when heated.

Heavy cream can be whipped into a light, airy texture, making it ideal for giving a mousse a fluffy lift or for piping a decorative edge around a cake. This versatile ingredient is essential for any well-stocked kitchen, and we’ll show you how to extend its shelf life.

How long does heavy cream stay fresh in the fridge once opened?

According to USDA guidelines, heavy cream can last up to a month in the fridge, whether it's opened or unopened, as long as it’s kept at a stable, cold temperature.

A common kitchen mistake is taking the heavy cream out of the fridge, using it in coffee, and then leaving it on the counter throughout breakfast (or even longer).

Generally, heavy whipping cream can last for several weeks once opened, provided it's stored properly in the fridge. For optimal freshness, place the container toward the back or on the bottom shelf, where temperatures are the coldest.

Can you still use heavy cream past its expiration date?

An unopened carton of heavy cream can typically be used for weeks after its expiration date, as long as it has been kept properly chilled in the fridge and hasn’t been exposed to air, heat, light, or contaminants. The date on the label is a "best-if-used-by" guideline.

Heavy cream labeled as "ultra-pasteurized" tends to have a longer shelf life. This variety is heated to higher temperatures for a short time, which helps eliminate bacteria and spores.

Find the recipe here: Tres Leches Cake

How to tell if heavy cream has gone bad

To check if your heavy cream has gone bad, start by examining its appearance. If the cream begins to clump or thicken, it has likely spoiled. You should also notice a sour odor, which is a sign of bacterial growth.

Can you freeze heavy cream?

Heavy cream can last quite a while when stored in the fridge, and it can also be frozen for future use in cooking and baking.

To freeze heavy cream, pour it into ice cube trays or silicone molds and store for several months. When needed, pop out a cube or two for sauces or soups, then thaw to room temperature before incorporating into creamy dips or thick dessert frostings.