How to Store Cupcakes with Frosting (and without frosting)

There is nothing like the smell or sight of delicious cupcakes to make you smile. Getting that same feeling the next day with the same cupcakes would be the best bang for your buck! Today, I’m going to talk about the different ways to store cupcakes with frosting to have the best results.

Do you have some favorite homemade cupcakes you like to make for a special occasion or maybe you’re going to bake cupcakes for someone else but looking to meal prep! I personally love making cupcakes for my family with these turkey burger sliders. We’re also going to talk about frozen cupcakes and the best way to keep them fresh.

To store cupcakes with frosting, follow these steps:

1. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely:

   Make sure your cupcakes have cooled down completely before attempting to store them. This prevents the frosting from melting or becoming too soft.

2. Choose an airtight container:

   Select a storage container that is large enough to hold all your cupcakes without squishing the frosting. A plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a cupcake carrier with individual compartments works well.

3. Prepare the container:

   Line the bottom of the container with a sheet of wax or parchment paper to prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the container. This is optional if you have cupcake liners and only putting them in a single row.

4. Place the cupcakes in the container:

   Carefully place the cupcakes inside the container, leaving enough space between each cupcake so they don’t touch or smudge the frosting.

5. Seal the container:

   Close the lid tightly to create an airtight seal. This helps to retain the cupcakes’ moisture and keeps the frosting fresh.

6. Refrigerate or store at room temperature:

   The ideal storage method depends on the type of frosting you used.

   Here are the options:

   1. Buttercream frosting: If your cupcakes are frosted with buttercream, you can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, if the weather is hot or humid, it’s better to refrigerate them to prevent the frosting from melting. Keep in mind that refrigeration can slightly alter the texture of the cupcake.
   2. Cream cheese frosting or other perishable frostings: If your cupcakes have cream cheese frosting or any other frosting that contains perishable ingredients, it’s best to refrigerate them. They can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to take the chill off.

7. Avoid stacking or squishing:

   If you’re storing multiple layers of cupcakes, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other to prevent the frosting from getting smushed. If you need to stack them, place a sheet of wax or parchment paper between the layers. This helps with the mess.

8. Keep away from strong odors:

   Cupcakes can absorb strong odors from the surrounding environment, so it’s best to store them in a sealed container away from pungent foods or anything with a strong aroma. Think of something like garlic or onions, those can potentially become part of your cupcake.

By following these steps, your cupcakes should stay fresh and the frosting should maintain its shape and flavor. Wahoo! How to store cupcakes isn’t impossible, it just requires a little effort.

To store unfrosted cupcakes at room temperature, follow these steps:

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely:

Make sure your cupcakes have cooled down completely before attempting to store them. This prevents moisture from building up and affecting their texture.

Choose an airtight container:

Select a container that is large enough to hold all your plain cupcakes without squishing them. A plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works well. Alternatively, you can use a resealable plastic bag.

Line the container (optional):

If desired, you can line the bottom of the container with a sheet of wax or parchment paper to prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the container. This is totally not necessary but can make it easier to remove the cupcakes later.

Place the cupcakes in the container:

Carefully place the unfrosted cupcakes inside the container, arranging them in a single layer. If you need to stack the cupcakes, separate the layers with sheets of wax or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Seal the container:

Close the lid tightly or seal the bag securely to create an airtight seal. This helps to keep the cupcakes fresh and protect them from drying out.

Store at room temperature:

Place the container of unfrosted cupcakes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong odors. Cupcakes stored this way can typically stay fresh for 2 to 3 days.

Avoid refrigeration:

Refrigeration is not necessary for unfrosted cupcakes and can actually dry them out. Room temperature is sufficient for short-term storage.

Frost before serving (if desired):

If you plan to frost the cupcakes later, wait until just before serving to do so. Frosting the top of the cupcake can soften and melt if applied too early, especially in warmer weather.

By following these steps, you can store your unfrosted cupcakes at room temperature for a couple of days while keeping them fresh and ready for frosting.

To properly store grocery store-bought cupcakes, follow these steps:

Check the packaging:

Review any instructions or recommendations provided on the packaging of the store-bought cupcakes. Some cupcakes may have specific storage instructions that differ from the general guidelines.

Keep them in their original packaging:

If the store-bought cupcakes come in a box or container with a lid, it’s often best to keep them in their original packaging. The packaging is designed to help maintain the cupcakes’ freshness and protect them during transportation.

Store in a cool, dry place:

Find a cool spot in your kitchen or pantry to store the cupcakes. Avoid areas that are exposed to direct sunlight, heat sources, or excessive moisture, as these conditions can affect the cupcakes’ texture and quality.

Check the best-by date:

Take note of the expiration or best-by date provided on the packaging. It’s important to consume the cupcakes before this date for the best taste and quality.

Avoid stacking or squishing:

If you have multiple cupcakes, try to avoid stacking them directly on top of each other, as it can smush the frosting. If needed, place a sheet of wax or parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.

Keep away from strong odors:

Store-bought cupcakes can absorb strong odors from other foods nearby, so it’s best to keep them away from strong-smelling items.

Consider refrigeration if necessary:

Depending on the type of frosting and the climate, it may be advisable to store store-bought cupcakes in the refrigerator. Check the instructions or use the guidance for homemade frosted cupcakes mentioned earlier. If refrigerating, transfer the cupcakes to an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing refrigerator odors.

Bring to room temperature before serving:

If the cupcakes were stored in the refrigerator, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. This will help them regain their ideal texture and flavor.

Always follow any specific instructions or guidelines provided by the manufacturer on the packaging of the store-bought cupcakes.

To store frosted cupcakes in the fridge, follow these steps:

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely:

Ensure that your cupcakes have cooled down completely before applying the frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting or becoming too soft.

Choose an airtight container:

Select a container that is large enough to hold all your frosted cupcakes without squishing the frosting. A plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works well. Alternatively, you can use a cake carrier with a dome lid.

Prepare the container:

Line the bottom of the container with a sheet of wax or parchment paper to prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the container.

Place the cupcakes in the container:

Carefully place the frosted cupcakes inside the container, leaving enough space between each cupcake so they don’t touch or smudge the frosting. If you need to stack the cupcakes, place a sheet of wax or parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.

Seal the container:

Close the lid tightly to create an airtight seal. This helps to retain the cupcakes’ moisture and keeps the frosting fresh.

Refrigerate the cupcakes:

Place the container of frosted cupcakes in the refrigerator. Cupcakes with buttercream frosting or other non-perishable frostings can typically be stored in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.

Keep away from strong odors:

Cupcakes can absorb strong odors from other foods in the fridge, so it’s best to store them away from foods that give off a strong scent.

Bring to room temperature before serving:

When you’re ready to serve the cupcakes, remove them from the refrigerator and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps to take the chill off and allows the cupcakes to regain their ideal texture.

To store cupcakes in the freezer, follow these steps:

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely:

Make sure your fresh cupcakes are completely cooled before freezing. This helps maintain their texture and prevents condensation from forming during freezing. It’s going to give you the best quality once it thaws.

Wrap each cupcake individually:

Start by wrapping your cooled cupcake tightly with plastic wrap/saran wrap. This will help protect them from freezer burn and preserve their freshness.

Place wrapped cupcakes in a freezer bag or airtight container:

Once each cupcake is wrapped in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. If using a freezer bag, remove any excess air before sealing it to prevent freezer burn. If using a container, make sure it has a tight-fitting lid.

Label and date the container:

It’s important to label the container or bag with the date you’re freezing cupcakes. This helps you keep track of their freshness and ensures you use them within a reasonable time frame.

Freeze the cupcakes:

Put the container or bag of cupcakes in the freezer. Make sure they are placed on a flat surface so they don’t get squished or damaged. Avoid stacking anything on top of the cupcakes to preserve their shape.

Storage duration:

Cupcakes can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without a significant loss in quality. However, the sooner you consume them, the better they will taste.

Thawing the cupcakes:

When you’re ready to enjoy the cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. It’s best to keep them wrapped during thawing to prevent them from drying out. Depending on the size of the cupcakes, they may take a few hours to thaw completely.

Note:

It’s important to note that freezing process for cupcakes with certain types of frosting, like whipped cream or meringue, may result in a change in texture. If possible, it’s best to freeze cupcakes with sturdier frostings, such as buttercream or cream cheese. This is a good long-term storage option especially if you dont want to waste food.

By following these steps, you can store your cupcakes in the freezer and enjoy them at a later time without compromising their taste or texture.

How do you know if your cupcake has gone bad?

It’s a good idea to know when cupcakes have gone bad. Look at their appearance in terms of color, texture or consistency. Maybe they’ve become too grainy, it might be spoiled. Take a sniff of the cupcakes and frosting, you’ll know what doesn’t smell like a delicious cupcake. If it has an gross taste, general rule of thumb is don’t eat it. You might even visibly see signs of mold on the cupcake. Shelf life can vary from one to the other, depending on the ingredients used , storage and type of frosting. Also, you can’t forget if it has a perishable filling.

If you have any doubts about the freshness or safety of cupcakes with frosting, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard them.

When to make cupcakes for a party?

The ideal timeframe for making cupcakes for a party depends on various factors such as the type of cupcakes, the frosting used, and your personal preferences. However, here are some general guidelines:

Cupcake type:

Different types of cupcakes have varying shelf lives. Generally, cupcakes made with oil or butter tend to stay moist and fresh for longer compared to those made with delicate ingredients like whipped cream or fresh fruit.

Freshness:

For optimal taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume cupcakes within 1 to 3 days of baking. This allows them to be enjoyed at their freshest.

Frosting:

Consider the type of frosting used. Buttercream or cream cheese frosting can typically be made a day or two in advance and refrigerated until ready to use. Whipped cream or meringue-based frostings are best prepared and applied shortly before serving. This cupcake frosting has a crazy number of reviews and is delicious for good reason.

Planning and preparation:

It’s helpful to plan and prepare ahead of time to reduce stress on the day of the party. You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them properly to maintain their freshness. Frosting can be made ahead and refrigerated, but it’s often best to frost the cupcakes closer to the party to ensure they look their best.

Here’s your best option for making cupcakes for a party:

• 1 to 2 days before the party: Bake the cupcakes, let them cool completely, and store them unfrosted in an airtight container at room temperature.
• 1 day before the party: Prepare the frosting, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before frosting the cupcakes to allow it to soften slightly.
• Day of the party: Frost the tops of your cupcakes shortly before the guests arrive or when you’re ready to serve. This ensures the cupcakes look fresh and the frosting is at its best.

By following this timeline, you can have freshly baked cupcakes with well-prepared frosting for your party while minimizing last-minute stress. Remember to consider factors like climate and the specific recipes you’re using, as they can affect the cupcakes’ shelf life.

Now you know how to store cupcakes with frosting and without frosting. You know the tricks to keeping them fresh on the counter as well as tips to freeze your cupcakes. Keeping cupcakes fresh might take some intentional work, but it is oh so worth it!