Can I Eat Expired Butter Cake?

Safe up to 2 days after expirationLast updated: 3/30/2025

Safe to eat up to 2 days after expiry

Medium Risk

Expert Source

"According to USDA guidelines, Butter Cake should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week."

Fresh Butter Cake

Fresh Butter Cake

⚠️Spoiled Butter Cake

Spoiled Butter Cake
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Storage Guidelines

Storage Location

Fridge

Ideal Temperature

33-36°F (0.6-2.2°C)

Best Storage Method

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Shelf Life

Average Shelf Life

5 days

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Signs of Spoilage

Mold, Unpleasant odor, Discoloration

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Additional Information

Alternative Uses

Serve with ice cream, Use in trifle desserts

Possible Substitutions

Pound cake, Angel food cake

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between expiration and best quality dates for Butter Cake?

The expiration date on butter cake usually indicates when the cake is no longer safe to eat due to potential spoilage or growth of harmful bacteria. However, the best quality of the cake may start to deteriorate before the expiration date. While the cake may still be safe to eat after the expiration date if stored properly, the taste and texture may not be as good as when it was fresh. It's best to consume butter cake within a few days of baking for optimal quality.

How can I tell if Butter Cake has gone bad?

To tell if Butter Cake has gone bad, look for any mold growth on the surface, a sour or off smell, or a slimy or sticky texture. If the cake appears discolored, has an unusual odor, or feels unpleasantly moist, it is best to discard it to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.

What are the food safety risks with Butter Cake?

Butter cake, like other baked goods, can be at risk for contamination by harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli if not handled and stored properly. Make sure to use clean utensils and work surfaces when preparing the cake batter to prevent cross-contamination. Additionally, ensure the cake is baked thoroughly to kill any bacteria present in the raw ingredients.

What are some pro tips for storing Butter Cake?

To keep butter cake fresh and moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you need to store it longer, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Make sure to let the cake come to room temperature before serving to restore its soft texture. You can also freeze butter cake for up to 2-3 months by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Any interesting facts about Butter Cake?

Butter cake is a popular dessert in many cultures around the world. In the United States, butter cake is often associated with Southern cuisine and is a classic treat for special occasions like birthdays and holidays. In Malaysia, 'kek mentega' is a traditional butter cake enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. In France, butter cake is known as 'gâteau au beurre' and is a staple in French bakeries.

Expiration Calculator

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Sources

For more information on food safety and expiration guidelines, visit our Sources page.

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Recipes Available

We have recipes that can help you safely use butter cake past its expiration date!

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Reviewed By: Food Safety & Expiration Experts

At Can I Eat Expired, we are committed to providing accurate, science-backed information about food expiration and storage safety. Our content is carefully reviewed based on guidelines from leading food safety organizations, including:

🔍 How We Ensure Accuracy

  • We use official food safety sources to guide our recommendations.
  • Our team continuously reviews and updates content based on the latest research.
  • We encourage users to always check for signs of spoilage and follow proper storage guidelines.

📚 Have Questions?

If you have specific concerns about food expiration or safety, we recommend consulting a registered dietitian, food scientist, or your local health department.

Note: These are general guidelines. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out.