It’s no secret that we all love our coffee. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, there’s nothing like a good cup of coffee to start your day or keep you going through the night. But how long does coffee last in the fridge? We have the answer to this question. So, Let’s take a closer look. We’ll also share some tips on how to keep your coffee fresh for as long as possible.
How Long Does Coffee Last In The Fridge
Unfortunately, coffee doesn’t stay fresh forever. Coffee can start to go bad within just a few hours of brewing. After that, it’s just a matter of time before your coffee starts to taste stale, flat, and unappetizing.
So, how long does coffee last in the fridge? Generally speaking, coffee will last in the fridge for 3-5 days before it starts to go bad. Of course, this assumes that you’ve stored your coffee correctly in an airtight container. If your coffee is exposed to air, it will go bad even faster.
Let’s talk detail:
Cold Brew
When it comes to coffee, there are two types of people in this world: those who love it and those who need it. There’s nothing quite like a cup of cold brew for coffee lovers. It’s strong, smooth, and has a bit of a bite that wakes you up and gets you going. But cold brew is a lifesaver for those who need coffee to get through the day. It’s the perfect pick-me-up when you’re tired and can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Coffee Creamer
The shelf life of coffee creamer depends on the type of creamer you use. Dairy-based creamers, for example, will only last about a week after the expiration date. On the other hand, non-dairy creamers made with soy, almond, or coconut milk can last up to two weeks past their expiration date.
Of course, the best way to prolong the shelf life of your coffee creamer is to store it in a cool, dark place like the pantry or cabinet. But if you’re like most of us and tend to keep your coffee creamer in the fridge, you can do a few things to make it last a little longer.
First, make sure to keep the lid tightly sealed. This will help to prevent the creamer from absorbing any unwanted flavors or odors from the fridge.
Second, if you’re using a dairy-based creamer, give it a good shake before using it. This will help to redistribute the milkfat, which can settle at the bottom of the container over time.
Finally, if your coffee creamer has started to separate or become clumpy, stir it before using it. This will help to improve the texture and flavor of the creamer.
Brewed black coffee
Brewed black coffee can last in the fridge for up to three days. However, this can vary depending on a few factors.
- First, the type of coffee you’re using. If you’re using a light roast, it will generally last a bit longer than a dark roast.
- Second, how you brewed your coffee, if you used a French press or an espresso machine, your coffee will last a bit longer than if you used a drip coffee maker.
- Finally, how you store your coffee, if you keep your coffee in a sealed container, it will last longer than if you leave it out in the open.
Hot-Brewed Coffee
Hot-brewed coffee will last in the fridge for up to a week. This is because coffee is a naturally acidic beverage. The coffee’s acidity helps preserve it and prevent it from going bad.
However, a few things can shorten the shelf life of your hot brewed coffee. One of these is storing it in an airtight container. If you keep your coffee in a container that is not airtight, the coffee will lose its flavor and aroma.
Another thing that can shorten the shelf life of your coffee is if you keep it in the fridge for too long. If you do not drink your coffee within a week, it is best to discard it.
So, how long does hot brewed coffee last in the fridge? The answer is up to a week, but a few things can shorten its shelf life. Be sure to store it in an airtight container and drink it within a week to enjoy its delicious flavor and aroma.
Instant Coffee
It depends on the quality of the coffee. If you have a higher quality coffee, it will likely last a bit longer than lower quality coffee. That said, you can generally expect instant coffee for a week in the fridge.
Iced Coffee
Ideally, iced coffee should be consumed within 24 hours of being made. After that, it will start to lose its flavor and freshness.
That said, iced coffee will still be safe to drink after a few days in the fridge. The exact shelf life will depend on how the coffee is made and stored.
For example, iced coffee made with milk will only last 3-4 days in the fridge. But black iced coffee will last up to a week.
Stovetop Coffee
Stovetop coffee is a type of coffee that is brewed using a stovetop coffee maker. It is famous for coffee lovers who want rich, full-flavored coffee. Stovetop coffee makers come in various sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your needs.
Stovetop coffee makers can make a single cup of coffee or a large pot of coffee. When making a large pot of coffee, it is important to let the coffee cool completely before storing it in the fridge. Coffee that is stored in the refrigerator will last for about a week.
If you only make a single cup of coffee, you can store the coffee in the fridge for four days. When storing coffee in the refrigerator, it is important to seal the coffee in an airtight container. This will help keep the coffee fresh and prevent it from drying.
Reheat it on the stovetop when you are ready to drink your coffee. You can reheat it in the microwave, but stovetop coffee tastes best when reheated on the stove.
Espresso
Generally speaking, espresso will last in the fridge for about a week. This assumes, of course, that it is stored in an airtight container. If you do not have an airtight container, then it is likely that the espresso will only last for two days.
Once the espresso is brewed, it begins to oxidize. This process will cause the espresso to lose its flavor and aroma over time. However, storing espresso in the fridge will slow down this process.
It is important to note that you should not store espresso in the freezer. Freezing espresso will cause it to lose its flavor and aroma completely.
If you need to store espresso for longer, it is best to vacuum seal it. Vacuum sealing will prevent the espresso from oxidizing and will keep it fresh longer.
Coffee With Milk
If you use a lot of milk in your coffee, it will likely only last for a day or two in the fridge. This is because milk is a dairy product that will spoil after a few days. Making your coffee strong might last a little longer, but it will only be suitable for two days. If your fridge is very cold, your coffee with milk might last a little longer, but it is still best to drink it within a few days.
In general, coffee with milk will last for a few days in the fridge. If you want it to last longer, add a little cream. This will help to extend the shelf life of your coffee. However, the cream can also make your coffee more calorie-dense, so it is best only to use it if you are trying to extend the shelf life of your coffee.
Coffee Beans and Grounds
As coffee beans are roasted, they release oils that can go rancid and make your coffee taste bad. That’s why it’s important to store coffee beans in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. But what if you need to keep them in the fridge?
Here’s what you need to know about storing coffee beans and grounds in the fridge.
Coffee beans can last in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Coffee grounds can last in the fridge for up to one week.
When storing coffee beans or grounds in the fridge, ensure they are in an airtight container.
If you’re unsure how long your coffee beans or grounds will last, smell them before using them. If they smell rancid, it’s time to toss them.
How Can You Tell if Your Coffee Is Expired?
It’s a valid question. After all, coffee is a food product, and like all food products, it has a shelf life. So how can you tell if your coffee is expired?
Here are a few telltale signs:
- The first place to start is the expiration date on the package. This is the date that the coffee was roasted, not the date that you should drink it. For most coffee, this date is about 2-3 weeks after the roast date. So if you’re drinking coffee that is more than a few weeks old, it is likely expired.
- The coffee tastes terrible. This is the most obvious sign that your coffee is no longer fresh. If it tastes sour, bitter, or just plain off, it’s time to toss it.
- The coffee smells bad. If your coffee has a sour or musty smell, it’s a sure sign that it’s gone bad.
- The coffee is a different color than usual. If your coffee is darker or lighter than normal, it’s another sign that it’s no longer fresh.
- The coffee has been sitting in the pot for a long time. If you’ve had a pot of coffee sitting on the burner for hours, likely, the coffee is no longer fresh.
- The coffee is from a package that’s been open for a while. If you’re using pre-ground coffee, it’s best to use it within a few weeks of opening the package. After that, the coffee will start to lose its flavor.
If you’re unsure whether your coffee is still good, err on caution and throw it out. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
The different options for storing brewed coffee instead of keeping it in the fridge
Here are four alternatives to storing brewed coffee in the fridge:
- Option 1: Store your brewed coffee in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Option 2: Freeze your brewed coffee in an airtight container. When you’re ready to drink it, thaw the coffee in the fridge and heat it.
- Option 3: Make cold-brew coffee. To brew coffee, steep coffee grounds in cold water for 12-24 hours. Then, strain the coffee and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Option 4: A thermos is perfect for those who like to keep their coffee hot. Make a pot of coffee as usual and pour it into the thermos. The coffee will stay hot for hours, making it the perfect way to enjoy a fresh cup even when you’re on the go.
5 Tips for Keeping Coffee in Refrigerator
Here are three tips for keeping coffee in the refrigerator:
Store it in an airtight container.
Be sure to use a container specifically designed for coffee, like a vacuum-sealed canister or glass jar. And make sure the lid is on tight! This is key for keeping your coffee fresh.
Please keep it away from other foods.
You might be tempted to store your coffee in the same container as other foods, but resist the urge. Coffee beans are porous so they can absorb different foods’ flavors. That means if you store your coffee next to, say, garlic, your coffee could taste like garlic. Not ideal.
Use it within a week.
Ideally, you should use your refrigerated coffee within a week. After that, the quality will start to decline. So if you’re not going to drink it within a week, consider freezing it.
Freezing coffee is a great way to extend its shelf life. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container, and thaw the coffee in the refrigerator overnight before use.
Allow it to cool completely.
When you’ve just brewed a pot of coffee, it’s important to let it cool completely before transferring it to the fridge. This will help to prevent the coffee from becoming bitter.
Keep beans whole
Keeping them whole rather than ground is best if you’re storing coffee beans. Ground coffee beans can lose their flavor quickly, so it’s best to grind them fresh when you’re ready to brew.
Can You Get Sick From Drinking Old Coffee?
It’s a question we’ve all asked ourselves at one point or another: can you get sick from drinking old coffee? The answer, unfortunately, is yes.
While it may not be the most appetizing thought, coffee that is more than a few days old can start to spoil, and drinking it can make you sick.
Here’s a closer look at why this happens and how you can avoid it.
Why Does Coffee Go Bad?
Coffee, like any other food, can go wrong.
This is because it is a perishable item and, over time, starts to degrade.
The main reason coffee goes bad is because of oxidation.
When coffee is exposed to oxygen, the molecules start to break down, altering the coffee’s taste and smell.
In addition, coffee beans are also susceptible to mold growth.
This is because they are a food source for mold spores, which can quickly multiply in the right conditions.
When coffee beans are stored in an airtight container, they can stay fresh for months.
However, once they are ground, they should be used within a few days, as ground coffee has a much larger surface area and is, therefore, more susceptible to oxidation and mold growth.
How to Avoid Drinking Bad Coffee
The best way to avoid drinking bad coffee is to be proactive and only buy what you know you will drink within a few days.
If you’re unsure how much coffee you’ll drink in a week, it’s best to buy smaller bags or grind your beans.
In addition, it’s important to store your coffee correctly to prevent oxidation and mold growth.
Coffee beans should be stored in an airtight, dark container in a cool, dry place.
Ground coffee should be used within a few days and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Finally, if you find yourself with old coffee that you’re not sure is still fresh, it’s best to err on caution and throw it out.
While saving old coffee may be tempting, it’s not worth risking your health for a few extra cups.
What Can You Do With Your Leftover Coffee?
There are plenty of things you can do with your leftover coffee. Here are 7 ideas to get you started:
Kick up your oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great way to start your day, but it can be a little bland. Give your oatmeal a flavor boost by stirring in some leftover coffee.
Add it to baked goods.
Coffee can be a great addition to baked goods. It can add a rich flavor to cookies, cakes, and brownies.
Make a Hair Mask
If you’re looking for a way to add shine and softness to your hair, coffee is a great option! Brew a cup of coffee and let it cool. Once it’s cool, apply it to your hair and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse it out with cold water and enjoy your soft, shiny hair!
Water Plants
If you have any plants that need watering, coffee is a great way to water them! Coffee is rich in nutrients that will help your plants grow. Add a few cups of coffee to your watering can and water your plants as usual.
Freeze it into ice cubes.
If you don’t want to drink your leftover coffee, you can freeze it in ice cubes. These coffee ice cubes can then be used in iced coffee or place of regular ice cubes in cocktails.
Make tiramisu
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that is made with coffee. If you have leftover coffee, you can use it to make this delicious dessert.
Rub on Ribeyes
If you’re a fan of grilled ribs, coffee is a great way to add flavor to them! Simply rub a few tablespoons of coffee onto your ribs before you grill them. The coffee will add a delicious smoky flavor to your ribs.
Make a Marinade
Coffee is an excellent addition to a marinade and can take your dish to the next level.
Turn your mug of hot chocolate into a mocha.
Hot chocolate is delicious, but it can be even better with a shot of coffee. Add some leftover coffee to your hot chocolate to make a delicious mocha.
Make ice cream
Ice cream is always a good idea, and you can use your leftover coffee to make delicious coffee ice cream.
Use it in a Slow Cooker Pot Roast.
If you’re making a pot roast in the slow cooker, coffee is a great way to add flavor! Add a few cups of coffee to the pot before you add the rest of the ingredients. The coffee will help to flavor the pot roast and make it more delicious.
Use It as a Stain
If you have a stain on your clothing that you can’t seem to get out, coffee may be the answer! Make a strong cup of coffee and apply it to the stain. The coffee will help to break up the stain and make it easier to remove. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wash the garment as usual.
Repair Scratches in Wood
If you have any scratches in your wood furniture, coffee can help to repair them! Simply apply a small amount of coffee to the scratch and rub it in. The coffee will help to fill in the scratch and make it less visible.
FAQs On How Long Does Coffee Last In The Fridge?
Do microwaves eliminate bacteria from brewed coffee?
It’s a common misconception that microwaves can kill bacteria. However, microwaves cannot kill bacteria – they can only kill viruses.
Brewed coffee is a great way to get your daily dose of caffeine, but it can also be a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly cared for.
It is important to clean your coffee maker regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria. You should also avoid using tap water to brew your coffee, as it may contain harmful bacteria.
If you are concerned about bacteria in your coffee, you can boil the water before you brew the coffee. This will kill any bacteria that may be present in the water.
How to maintain iced coffee’s freshness?
When it comes to iced coffee, there are a few things you can do to make sure it stays fresh and delicious. The optimal way to store iced coffee is in a carafe within a refrigerator. Make sure to tightly seal the carafe so that no air can get in and affect the coffee’s flavor. This will help keep the coffee cold and prevent it from getting watered down.
Conclusion
As you might expect, the longer coffee has been in the fridge, the more likely it is to have gone bad. Generally, brewed coffee will last in the fridge for about 3-5 days, while ground coffee will last for about two weeks. However, these are just general guidelines, and your coffee may last longer or shorter depending on the factors we’ve discussed.
If you’re unsure whether your coffee has gone bad, there are a few ways to tell. First, take a look at the color of the coffee. If it’s darker than it was when you brewed it, it’s probably gone bad.
Another way to tell if coffee has gone bad is to smell it. If it smells sour or off, it’s probably gone bad. Finally, you can try tasting the coffee. If it tastes bitter or stale, it’s probably gone bad.
If you’re still unsure, it’s always better to err on caution and throw the coffee out. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
We hope this article has helped you answer the question, “How long does coffee last in the fridge?” Remember to keep these guidelines in mind the next time you store coffee in the fridge.
I also like to review home appliances like blenders and juicers - I've tried out pretty much every model out there! So if you're in the market for one of those, be sure to check out my reviews.
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