Pumpkin pie is a classic fall and winter dessert. It’s often served around holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. But what if you have leftover pumpkin pie filling after baking just one pie? How long does leftover pumpkin pie filling last in the fridge?
Quick Answer
Leftover homemade pumpkin pie filling will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. The high moisture content of pumpkin pie filling means it’s prone to spoiling quickly. Keeping it chilled preserves freshness.
How to Store Leftover Pumpkin Pie Filling
Proper storage is key to maximizing how long pumpkin pie filling lasts. Here are some tips:
- Transfer leftover filling to an airtight container like a mason jar or food storage container. Plastic wrap can also work if sealed tightly.
- Press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the filling before sealing the container. This prevents a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate immediately and store in the coldest part of the fridge, toward the back.
An airtight container is important since pumpkin pie filling has a high moisture content. Exposure to air causes it to spoil more quickly. The cold environment of the refrigerator will keep the filling chilled at 40°F or below.
Signs of Spoilage
Despite proper storage, leftover pumpkin pie filling won’t last forever. Here are some signs that indicate it has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Mold growth – Mold may appear fuzzy or discolored.
- Off odors – Filling gives off a sour, unpleasant smell.
- Change in consistency – Filling becomes extra thick and lumpy or separates.
- Discoloration – Bright orange color fades or darkens.
If you notice any of these changes in your leftover pie filling, it’s best to throw it out. Don’t taste test filling that shows signs of spoilage.
How Long Does Refrigerated Pumpkin Pie Filling Last?
Refrigerating pumpkin pie filling slows down spoilage but doesn’t stop it completely. Here’s how long it lasts at different stages:
| Refrigerator Time | Filling Condition |
|---|---|
| 1-2 days | Best quality |
| 3-4 days | Acceptable to use but will be noticeably less fresh |
| 5-7 days | Not recommended for use |
For best flavor and texture, use leftover pumpkin pie filling within 2 days. After 3-4 days, it’s still safe to eat or bake with but the quality declines. With a whole week in the fridge, it should be discarded.
Maximizing How Long it Lasts
You can maximize the shelf life of homemade pumpkin pie filling with a few simple tricks:
- Portion into smaller amounts – Divide into smaller containers instead of storing in one large batch.
- Blanch before filling pie shell – Briefly heat filling before pouring into pie crust.
- Incorporate starch – Mix in 1-2 tsp cornstarch per cup of filling.
- Use fully cooked ingredients – Be sure pumpkin puree is cooked through.
- Test pH – Use a home pH tester to ensure filling is acidic enough.
With these tips, you may get up to a week in the fridge before pumpkin pie filling goes bad. But remember to still watch for signs of spoilage after 4-5 days.
Can You Freeze Leftover Pumpkin Pie Filling?
Yes, it’s possible to freeze extra homemade pumpkin pie filling to extend the shelf life. To freeze:
- Allow filling to cool completely first.
- Portion into freezable containers, leaving 1-inch headspace.
- Seal tightly and label with date.
- Freeze up to 3 months.
- Thaw in fridge before using.
Freezing prevents bacterial growth that causes filling to spoil. Thawed filling may be a bit runnier and need to be re-whipped. Add eggs before baking into pies.
How to Use Up Leftover Filling
Don’t let leftover pumpkin pie filling go to waste. Here are creative ways to use it up:
Bake Into Pies, Tarts or Crisps
Turn leftover filling into mini pumpkin pies in a muffin tin. Or make freeform hand pies. It’s also delicious baked into a tart shell or crumble topping.
Blend Into Smoothies
Add a spoonful of pumpkin pie filling into your morning smoothie. The creaminess goes well blended with banana, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, vanilla, and ice.
Swirl into Oatmeal
Stir some filling into a bowl of oatmeal, sweetening with maple syrup and topping with nuts or dried fruit. The pumpkin gives a nice autumn flavor.
Use in Milkshakes
Here’s a tasty fall treat: blend leftover filling with vanilla ice cream and milk for a creamy, dreamy milkshake.
Make Pumpkin Pie Protein Bars
Mix filling into protein bar batter before baking to add flavor and moisture to homemade bars.
Stir into Yogurt or Cottage Cheese
Just a spoonful of leftover pumpkin pie filling can transform a boring bowl of plain yogurt or cottage cheese into a tasty breakfast or snack.
Top Oatmeal Cookies
Before baking a batch of oatmeal cookies, dollop some filling on top of the raw cookie dough for a surprise pumpkin flavor.
Fill Crepes
Use leftover pie filling to fill crepes along with maple syrup, pecans, and whipped cream for an autumnal twist.
Finish Sauces
Stir a few spoonfuls of pumpkin filling into an orange sauce for chicken or pork to add color and sweetness.
Top Pancakes or Waffles
For a seasonal breakfast, top your pancakes or waffles with a scoop of pumpkin pie filling and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Conclusion
Pumpkin pie filling that’s stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge will keep for about 3 to 4 days. For best quality, use within 2 days. Signs of spoiled filling include mold, unpleasant odors, changed consistency, and unnatural colors. The filling can also be frozen for longer term storage. With so many uses for leftover pumpkin pie filling, from smoothies to crepes, don’t let it go to waste!