How long does applesauce last in the fridge? Opened store-bought applesauce generally lasts about 1 to 2 weeks when refrigerated, while homemade applesauce is best used within about 4 to 7 days. Applesauce should be refrigerated after opening, so read on for storage tips and signs it has gone bad.
I don’t know about you, but my fridge has at least one container of applesauce sitting in it at all times. My boys either go through it like crazy or barely touch it, so I’m often left wondering how long that opened container is actually good for.
And can we acknowledge for a second how underrated applesauce is? It gets thrown into the “kid snack” category, but especially in the fall and winter, I happily eat it myself.
I make my favorite Crockpot Applesauce often, too, which means I’ve dealt with both homemade and store-bought varieties hanging around in the fridge.
Does Applesauce Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, applesauce needs to be refrigerated after opening. Keep opened store-bought applesauce tightly covered in the refrigerator at 40°F or below and follow the storage instructions on the package.
Homemade applesauce should also be refrigerated promptly after making it. Unopened shelf-stable applesauce can be stored in a cool, dry pantry until you’re ready to open it.
How Long Does Applesauce Last in the Fridge?
Opened store-bought applesauce generally lasts about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, although you should always check the package for the manufacturer’s recommendation. Keep the container tightly sealed and refrigerated between servings.
Homemade applesauce has a shorter refrigerator life. For best quality, plan to use homemade applesauce within about 4 to 7 days and freeze any extra you won’t eat within that time.
If your applesauce is still within its recommended storage time but you’re unsure about its freshness, check for the signs of spoilage below.
How to Store Applesauce
A few simple storage habits will help keep applesauce fresh for as long as possible:
- Refrigerate after opening. Keep opened applesauce covered tightly in the refrigerator and return it to the fridge promptly after serving.
- Store it on a refrigerator shelf. The temperature in the door can fluctuate more as the refrigerator is opened and closed, so a shelf is a better choice.
- Keep homemade applesauce in an airtight container. Let it cool before transferring it to a covered container and refrigerating.
- Use clean utensils. Always scoop applesauce with a clean spoon to avoid introducing bacteria or other food into the container.
- Freeze extras. If you don’t think you’ll finish the applesauce within its refrigerator storage time, freezing is an easy way to keep it longer.
How to Tell if Applesauce Is Bad
Applesauce can go bad, even when it has been stored in the refrigerator. Before eating an opened container that’s been hanging around for a while, look for these signs of spoilage:
- Mold: If you see mold anywhere in the container, discard the entire container rather than scooping the moldy portion off.
- Off smell: Fresh applesauce should have a pleasant apple scent. If it smells sour, fermented or otherwise unusual, throw it away.
- Changes in appearance: Discoloration, an unusual texture or other noticeable changes can be signs that the applesauce is no longer good.
- Swollen or leaking container: Don’t eat applesauce from a container that is bulging, leaking or otherwise damaged.
A little liquid separating and collecting on top isn’t necessarily a sign that applesauce has gone bad and can often be stirred back in.
When in doubt, throw it out rather than tasting it to check for spoilage.
Can You Freeze Applesauce?
Yes, applesauce freezes well and it’s an easy way to store leftovers you won’t use in time. Transfer the applesauce to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, leaving a little room for expansion.
For smaller portions, freeze applesauce in an ice cube tray, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag. This makes it easy to thaw only what you need.
Thaw frozen applesauce in the refrigerator before eating. The texture may change slightly after freezing, but giving it a good stir will usually bring it back together.
Ways to Use Leftover Applesauce
If you have an open container you need to use up, try one of these easy ideas:
- Eat it chilled as a snack with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Serve it alongside pork chops or pork loin.
- Use it in baked goods, like my Healthy Breakfast Cookies.
- Stir a spoonful into apple oatmeal for extra apple flavor.
- Spoon it over pancakes, waffles or ice cream.
- Freeze small portions to use later.
FAQ About Storing Applesauce
How long is applesauce good for after opening?
Opened store-bought applesauce generally lasts about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, but check the package for the manufacturer’s specific storage recommendation.
Does unopened applesauce need to be refrigerated?
No. Unopened shelf-stable applesauce does not need to be refrigerated and can be kept in a cool, dry pantry. Once the container is opened, it should be refrigerated.
How long can applesauce sit out?
Once applesauce has been opened or homemade applesauce has been prepared, don’t leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Can you eat applesauce past the expiration date?
For unopened store-bought applesauce, check the date and storage instructions on the package. Dates on shelf-stable foods can refer to quality rather than safety, so also make sure the container is intact and shows no signs of spoilage. Once applesauce has been opened, the refrigerator storage time matters more than the date printed on the package.
More Apple Recipes
If you have apples to use up, try one of these easy recipes next:
- Instant Pot Apple Cider – A cozy fall drink that’s easy to make right in your pressure cooker.
- Instant Pot Applesauce – Make homemade applesauce quickly in your pressure cooker.
- Instant Pot Apple Butter – A rich, cozy spread that’s perfect for fall.
- Baked Apples – Tender apples baked with butter, brown sugar and cinnamon.
Leave a Reply