Cream cheese frosting is one of the most common frostings used for so many scrumptious baked goods. It is a perfect pair for carrot cake, pumpkin cake, red velvet, cupcakes, and so much more.
Suppose you make way much more than your cake needs, how should you store it? Can you freeze cream cheese frosting for future baking?
Absolutely, yes. Freezing works perfectly well to preserve this delicate ingredient.
To learn how to freeze and handle cream cheese frosting while maintaining its quality and safety, keep reading.
Does Cream Cheese Frosting Need To Be Refrigerated?
Its basic recipe typically calls for brick cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Judging from the ingredients, you’ve probably guessed that refrigeration is an absolute must.
Yes. Leaving the frosting out at room temperature spoils it quickly and compromises its safety.
After preparing, take as much as you need. Pack the rest in a sealed airtight container and refrigerate immediately—no longer than 2 hours.
Apart from safety issues, it tends to get runny at warm temperatures. So, don’t wait until the last minute to chill it.
Homemade frosting lasts up to 5 days in the fridge. For store-bought ones, please refer to the best by date on the package.
For long-term storage, freezing is your best option. Let’s touch upon how you can freeze this baking staple.
How To Freeze Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream cheese frosting is easy and quick to make. Suppose you prepare much more than your recipe needs. Freezing this delicious delight is always a good idea.
To freeze cream cheese frosting properly, follow these steps below. The whole process only took a few minutes.
1. Make the frosting, as usual, following your favorite recipe.
2. Scoop it into a freezer bag. For a large amount, divide it into smaller packs. Each one should be enough for one baking recipe, so you don’t need to thaw all your supply.
3. Flatten the bag and expel the excess air.
4. Seal it tightly and label it with the freezing date.
5. Transfer the package to the freezer. If you freeze multiple packages, stack them to save some space.
How To Thaw Frozen Cream Cheese Frosting
When you’re ready to decorate your cakes, simply place the frozen package in the refrigerator. Let it soften up slowly.
Once the frosting thaws, it may look watery or runny. Don’t worry. You can re-whip it with a whisk or a mixer to make it creamy again.
Remember that this icing is perishable. Thus, thawing it outside the fridge is not a good idea.
How Long Can You Freeze Cream Cheese Frosting?
Cream cheese frosting retains its peak quality for 1 to 3 months after freezing. Make sure to use this delicious delight for its maximum freshness.
What can I do with leftover cream cheese frosting?
Cream cheese frosting actually makes an excellent pair for many things other than just carrot cake and red velvet. You can also pair it with fresh fruits or spread it on graham crackers, donuts, pretzel sticks, or your favorite biscuits.
Can you freeze banana bread with cream cheese frosting?
Yes. Since the frosting contains a lot of fat, it holds up the freezer pretty well. Flash freeze the cake for several hours until it is frozen solid. Wrap it thoroughly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for extra protection. Freeze up to 3 months.
How long can a cake with cream cheese frosting sit out?
You need to refrigerate any cake or cupcakes with cream cheese frosting immediately or at least within 2 hours. While the cake can sit out well, the icing contains perishable items that spoil rapidly at room temperatures.
Why has my cream cheese frosting gone runny?
To avoid this problem, use full-fat brick cream cheese instead of a spreadable one that comes in a tub. The latter contains more water that is likely the source of the frosting goes runny. Our best advice is to reduce the amount of liquid such as lemon juice and substitute it with lemon zest.
How can I thicken my cream cheese frosting?
Most recipes usually result in a thick, creamy consistency. However, if the thickness is not yet up to your standard, you can improve it by adding powdered sugar. If you don’t want it too sweet, consider adding a small amount of cornstarch.
Summary
Cream cheese frosting makes any baked goods taste even more delicious. Furthermore, this sweet, tangy icing is freezer-friendly.
Whether you plan to make it in advance or rescue leftovers, don’t hesitate to freeze it. Make sure to prepare and pack it properly. Freeze it up to 1 to 3 months.
Whenever you need it, thaw it in the fridge. Whip it to regain its creamy consistency, and it’s ready to decorate your cakes!
Rosa graduated with a master degree in Food Safety from Wageningen University and Research, The Netherlands. Recently, she started a consulting agency to facilitate the improvement of food safety, quality, and sustainability.
