Expert: Carl Copeland - 11/7/2007

Question
I made a pumpkin pie last and once removing it from the oven placed in the microwave off the counter to cool, and be out of the way while I was cooking.  The problem is I left it there all night.  Could it still be eaten or should I throw it away?

Answer
Mistie,
I have a little bad news. Pumpkin pie is  a form of custard and should be kept at 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be left out for more than 2 hours after cooked even for the cool down period. I know that we buy commercialized pumpkin pies at the grocery store but you should not buy one unless there are specific instructions regarding storage. You can make the majority of your cakes and pastries last longer with proper cake storage containers. I would throw it away.  But you'll have to make that call.
Check them out at

http://www.food-storage-info.com/cakestorage.html

Take Care,
Carl