Heavy cream is generally good for up to about one month in the refrigerator after opening, provided it is stored properly at a constant cold temperature, ideally in the back or bottom shelf of the fridge where it is coldest
. Most heavy cream sold today is ultra-pasteurized, which extends its shelf life by killing more bacteria and spores, allowing it to remain fresh longer than regular milk or cream
. While the "best-if-used-by" date on the carton applies mainly to unopened containers, opened heavy cream can still be safe to use for several weeks beyond that date if it shows no signs of spoilage
. Signs that heavy cream has gone bad include curdling, lumps, thickening, and a distinctly sour smell, indicating bacterial growth
. Some sources note that heavy cream is often considered best within 7 to 10 days after opening, but many users report it lasting up to 2-4 weeks if kept sealed and refrigerated properly
. If you want to preserve heavy cream longer than a month, freezing it in ice cube trays is a good option, allowing storage for several months
Summary:
- Refrigerated shelf life after opening: Up to 1 month (several weeks typical)
- Signs of spoilage: Sour smell, curdling, lumps, thickening
- Storage tips: Keep sealed, refrigerated at coldest spot, avoid leaving out at room temperature
- Freezing: Can freeze for 3-4 months in ice cube trays for later use
This means you can generally rely on heavy cream lasting about 3-4 weeks after opening if stored properly, but always check for spoilage before use.
