Heavy cream should be refrigerated for optimal freshness. Proper storage significantly impacts its quality and lifespan.
Refrigeration
- Store heavy cream in its original container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its quality and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.
- Heavy cream, kept refrigerated, remains fresh for about two weeks to a month. [Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture]
Freezing
Freezing extends the shelf life of heavy cream considerably.
- Pour the heavy cream into airtight freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. Avoid using glass containers as they can break when frozen.
- Freezing heavy cream for three to four months is acceptable, although an expert recommends limiting frozen storage to one or two months for best results. [Source: Pittman, cited article] The longer it's frozen, the more likely the texture and quality will be affected upon thawing.
Thawing
- Thaw frozen heavy cream in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and minimizes the risk of bacterial growth. Do not thaw at room temperature.
Important Considerations
- Always check the expiration date on the container.
- Discard any heavy cream that shows signs of spoilage, such as sour smell or curdling.
