How long do cakes, muffins and pastries last?

Cakes, muffins and pastries keep 7–10 days in the fridge once opened, 6 months in the freezer and 3–7 days in the pantry, according to USDA FoodKeeper.

Quick answer

Fridge7–10 daysonce opened
Freezer6 monthsfrom purchase
Pantry3–7 daysfrom purchase

Storage times by type

TypeFridgeFreezerPantry
Commercial cakes and muffins
  • Opened: 7–10 days after opening
  • Unopened: 6 months from purchase
  • Unopened: 3–7 days from purchase
Pastries, danish
  • Opened: 14 months after opening
  • Unopened: Not recommended
  • Unopened: 5–10 days from purchase
Muffin (commercially packaged)—
  • Unopened: 3 months
  • Unopened: 3–7 days
USDA tips: Fridge: Refrigeration not recommended - muffin will quickly dry out and become stale.

Also covers: cake, muffin, muffins, cupcake, croissant, pastry, danish, brownies.

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These are general guidelines from the USDA’s FoodKeeper data for food stored at safe temperatures: fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below, freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Freezer times are for best quality; food kept constantly frozen at 0°F stays safe longer. Always check the package and the food itself. When in doubt, throw it out. Shelf Shepherd isn’t affiliated with or endorsed by the USDA.

Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper data. Last reviewed November 5, 2026.