Last Updated on July 3, 2022
Making cakes can be a time-consuming process. You may wonder, can you refrigerate cake batter? Whether you are looking to save time or you have leftover batter, this can be a pliable option.
Though it is generally ideal to bake cake batter right away, things don’t always work out that way. Fortunately, if time is not on your side or you have leftovers, you can store your cake batter for later. This is a great kitchen hack to know if you enjoy baking cakes.
Can You Refrigerate Cake Batter?
Though it is best to bake your cake batter right after preparing it, you can store your cake batter in the fridge. Cake batter can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 48 hours when properly stored.
You don’t want to store your cake batter any longer than 48 hours in your fridge. After 48 hours, the rising agents, such as baking powder and baking soda, will lose their effectiveness. This means that your cakes will turn out dense and chewy instead of light and fluffy.
In addition, after 48 hours your cake batter will begin to lose its freshness. You may notice that it will become darker in color and may even have a sour smell.
How to store cake batter in the fridge
Store your cake batter in your fridge in an airtight container. You can also store it in a Ziploc bag or a mixing bowl with plastic wrap or aluminum foil covering the top. Be sure that the plastic wrap or aluminum foil is tightly covering the top of the mixing bowl to prevent any air from getting in.
Refrigerating for one hour
If you need just need to pop your cake batter in the fridge quickly while you run an errand or do another chore, you can put it in your fridge for one hour. Since you don’t want to leave cake batter at room temperature for more than one hour, this can be a great option if you need more time before baking. If your cake batter is in the fridge for just an hour, it should bake just fine without adjustments.
Refrigerating for 24 to 48 hours
If you are tight on time, you can prepare the cake batter 24 hours in advance and if need be, up to 48 hours. However, close to 48 hours tends to become a gray area for your batter, as the leaving agents might not be as effective.
With proper storage, your cake batter should be able to still bake well after being stored in the fridge. However, you may notice the cake isn’t quite as light and fluffy. Generally, cake mix batter tends to last longer in the fridge than cake batter from scratch does.
Baking cake batter that has been refrigerated
When ready to bake your cake batter that has been refrigerated, you can bake it directly from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for one hour. Be sure to let the oven preheat and grease your cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
If your cake batter has only been in the fridge for one hour, then you likely won’t have to make any changes. The cake should bake just fine at the normal time and temperature, still being moist and fluffy when baked. However, in some cases, your cake may need a few minutes longer in the oven.
If your cake has been in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours, it will likely take longer to bake as it will need more time to rise. Your cake will likely need around five extra minutes in the oven. It should still turn out good overall, though it might be slightly denser.
Can You Freeze Cake Batter?
Generally, it is best to bake cakes ahead of time and freeze them if you’d like to save time. However, you can freeze cake batter if you like. It is important to note that angel food cake, chiffon cake, and sponge cake will not freeze well.
Freeze your cake batter in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag. Cake batter can last for up to three months in the freezer, though it is best to use it sooner rather than later.
Baking cake batter that has been frozen
When you are ready to make your frozen cake batter, allow your batter to thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. Your cake may need to be baked for a few minutes longer.
Though in most cases cake made from frozen batter will turn out tasty, it may not rise as much. When this happens, your cake may be denser and slightly chewy.
Storing Your Cake Batter for Later
If you are short on time or have leftover batter, you can store your cake batter in the fridge or freezer. Cake batter will last for up to 24 to 48 hours in the fridge and three months in the freezer.
Do you have any questions regarding can you refrigerate cake batter? If so, please ask any questions regarding storing cake batter in the comments.
FAQs
How Long Can Cake Batter Sit on the Counter?
Cake batter should not sit out for more than one hour at room temperature. After two hours, harmful bacteria may begin to develop in the batter, which makes it unsafe to eat, even when baked.
How Do You Store Cake Batter?
Cake batter is always best made right after preparation. However, you can store cake batter in an airtight container or Ziploc bag in the fridge for up to 24 to 48 hours and in the freezer for up to three months.
Can You Freeze Cake Batter for Later?
You can freeze cake batter in an airtight container or Ziploc bag for up to three months. However, cake batters such as angel food cake, chiffon and sponge cake will not hold up in the freezer.
How Long Does Cake Batter Last in the Fridge?
Cake batter will last in the fridge for up to 24 to 48 hours. Anytime after that, the leavening agents will begin to lose their effectiveness, resulting in flat, dense cakes.
Ever since she was a young girl, Anna has been a lover of desserts. As an adult, she enjoys
baking a variety of desserts from cakes, cookies, brownies, bread, and more from scratch. She
enjoys sharing her passion for baking with others who also have a sweet tooth. From properly
measuring ingredients to making sure they are the correct temperature, Anna knows the
importance small details can make in baking. She wants to share her experience with others in
hopes they can make the most delicious baked goods. When she’s not busy blogging, Anna
enjoys trying new recipes in the kitchen.
