Here’s how long this combination can stay in the refrigerator:
Coffee with cream or milk can last for a maximum of 2 days in the fridge.
Adding dairy to coffee drastically changes its flavor and how long the beverage is good for.
Alternatively, you can set the temperature in your fridge to just above freezing to keep coffee with cream/milk as fresh as possible.
But I’d recommend drinking the coffee with cream/milk right away and always serving it fresh.
It can only last for up to 2 days in the fridge and even worse, it can even absorb bad odors.
Also, note that brewed coffee should be consumed within 30 minutes for the best taste and flavor.
To expand on how long your coffee with milk/cream will last in the fridge, today I’ll also cover:
- The best temperature to store coffee with cream or milk
- Side effects of drinking coffee with cream that’s gone bad
- How to safely enjoy coffee with cream or milk after it has been refrigerated
- Whether it not it’s possible to extend the life of coffee with cream or milk
Best Temperature to Store Coffee w/ Cream or Milk
Coffee with milk is safe to consume only when you store it at a temperature of 40 degrees F or below.
The temperatures between 40° and 140° F are not a safe zone for coffee with milk as it can spoil.
At this temperature range, bacteria found in foods such as milk will start growing rapidly.
Coffee with milk sitting at a temperature of 40 to 80 degrees F is not safe to drink after 2 hours.
And if it has been sitting for 1 hour at temperatures between 90 to 180 degrees F, just toss it and brew a fresh cup.
Remember – do not refrigerate coffee with milk that has been sitting outside at room temperature for more than 1 hour. Thank me later.
Side Effects of Drinking Coffee with Bad Cream
Drinking coffee with bad cream can make you sick and it’s only safe to consume coffee with cream within 2 days after you refrigerate it.
Creamers have a short life once opened and even when mixed with coffee and put in the fridge, they can turn bad.
Drinking coffee with cream that has expired can make you sick and cause vomiting and stomach pain.
If your coffee with milk or cream smells and tastes sour, that is a sure sign that it is spoiled. If that’s the case – discard it right away.
Also, do not use dairy and non-dairy cream if it has been sitting open in the fridge for a week or two.
The same goes for coffee with milk – leaving it to sit for more than 2 days and then drinking it can make you feel bad.
And it doesn’t matter if you use traditional milk or alternatives such as oat or almond milk.
Just put it in the fridge within 2 hours of preparing/consuming it and finish the cup within 48 hours max.
How to Drink Coffee w/ Cream Safely Once Refrigerated
You can reheat coffee with cream/milk that you’ve previously held in the fridge by putting it in the microwave.
Heating the coffee to a high temperature will destroy all the bacteria and make it safe to consume, yet it will also change its taste and flavor a bit.
Plain coffee has very little protein and carbohydrates, which is why it’s safe to consume even if you leave it at room temperatures.
While cream and milk can encourage the growth of microorganisms and other foodborne pathogens.
This is why it is best to microwave your cup of coffee with milk/cream after you take it out of the refrigerator.
Other Important Factors to Consider
Here are two additional important factors related to storing and refrigerating coffee with milk or cream:
1. You can’t extend the life of coffee with cream or milk
Not adding milk or creamer to coffee will extend the beverage’s flavor and taste.
Coffee is good to store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks (in an airtight container) so instead of pre-adding milk or cream, add it only before drinking it.
2. Refrigerated coffee with cream/milk preserves caffeine
Coffee with milk or cream will stay strong for another day or two after you prepare it.
Caffeine won’t degrade for weeks after you brew the coffee, although the beverage may lose some of its other properties besides the caffeine kick.
Conclusion
Either drink coffee with cream or milk that has been refrigerated for no more than 2 days or do not add anything to your coffee at all.
Milk and regular cream are labeled dairy products and they tend to spoil rather fast, which will affect how long your coffee lasts as well.
Alternatively, you can try a non-dairy coffee creamer e.g. one made of almond milk.
But you should still consume your cup within a day or two, otherwise, it won’t taste as good at the very least.
Now tell me, do you mind drinking day-old coffee with milk or cream?
What’s the longest you held your coffee in the fridge?
And when do you typically add milk/cream – before or after storing your coffee?
Drop your answers below!
FAQs
How long does coffee with cream or milk last in the fridge?
If you’re a coffee drinker who likes to add cream or milk to their coffee, you may wonder how long it can last in the fridge.
Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- The shelf life of coffee with cream or milk in the fridge depends on the type of milk or cream used.
- The storage conditions also play a crucial role in determining the longevity of your coffee.
- It’s essential to pay attention to any changes in the coffee’s flavor or smell, as they could indicate spoilage.
Does the type of milk or cream used affect how long coffee with cream or milk lasts in the fridge?
The type of milk or cream used to make your coffee can impact its shelf life in the fridge. Here are some things to consider:
- Non-dairy milk substitutes like almond milk or soy milk tend to last longer in the fridge than dairy-based options.
- Whole milk and cream can spoil faster than skim or low-fat milk.
- Creamers with added sugars or flavorings can have a shorter shelf life than plain milk or cream.
What are the ideal storage conditions for coffee with cream or milk in the fridge?
Proper storage is crucial to keeping your coffee fresh for as long as possible.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Store your coffee in an airtight container or bottle with a tight-fitting lid to prevent exposure to air.
- Keep your coffee in the back of the fridge, where the temperature is more consistent.
- Avoid storing your coffee in the door of the fridge, as it’s exposed to more temperature fluctuations.
How can you tell if coffee with cream or milk has gone bad?
It’s important to know the signs of spoilage in coffee with cream or milk to avoid drinking something that could make you sick.
Here are some things to look out for:
- Sour or off smell: If your coffee smells sour or off, it’s likely gone bad and should be discarded.
- Clumps or lumps: If you notice clumps or lumps in your coffee, it’s a sign that the milk or cream has started to curdle and has gone bad.
- Unpleasant taste: If your coffee tastes unpleasant or sour, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.
Can you freeze coffee with cream or milk to extend its shelf life?
Freezing coffee with cream or milk can be an option if you need to extend its shelf life.
However, it’s important to keep in mind the following:
- Freezing can change the texture and flavor of your coffee, so it’s not always the best option.
- To freeze coffee with cream or milk, place it in an airtight container and leave room for expansion.
- Thawed coffee with cream or milk may have a different consistency and taste than fresh coffee, so it’s important to taste it before consuming.
How long can you keep coffee with cream or milk in the fridge?
The length of time you can keep coffee with cream or milk in the fridge depends on several factors.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Non-dairy milk substitutes can last up to 7-10 days in the fridge.
- Dairy-based milk or cream can last up to 5-7 days in the fridge.
- Creamers with added sugars or flavorings may have a shorter shelf life and should be consumed within a few days of opening.
References:
- https://www.perfectbrew.com/blog/how-long-can-leftover-coffee-sit-out/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Cooking/comments/9eq7qf/how_long_does_coffee_with_milk_cream_and_sugar/
- https://www.quora.com/How-long-will-cold-brew-coffee-added-with-milk-and-syrup-last
- https://wokelark.com/how-long-can-coffee-sit-out/
- https://www.medicinenet.com/food_poisoning/article.htm
Simon is a coffee enthusiast who has spent years exploring the world of coffee. He has a deep passion for the art of brewing and enjoys experimenting with different brewing methods to create the perfect cup of coffee. His love for coffee has led him to become an expert in the field, and he is known for his meticulous attention to detail when it comes to selecting and brewing the perfect cup. Simon is also an avid traveler who loves incorporating new flavors and techniques into his brewing.
