How long does cream cheese last in the fridge?
Quick answer
- In the fridge
- About 2 weeks
- In the freezer
- Not recommended (turns grainy)
Sources: USDA FoodKeeper · Last reviewed October 1, 2026
Cream cheese keeps about 2 weeks in the fridge at 4°C, according to USDA's FoodKeeper. Brick-style cream cheese (foil-wrapped) lasts a touch longer than tub-style because the foil keeps air out. Mold, sour smell, or watery liquid pooling on top mean it's done. Freezing isn't recommended: the smooth texture turns grainy, so frozen cream cheese is only good for cooking and baking.
How to store cream cheese
Keep cream cheese tightly sealed on a middle or back shelf of the fridge, never the door. Use a clean knife each time. After cutting from a brick, re-wrap the cut surface in foil or plastic. Bring to room temperature before spreading (it gets stiff cold). Freezing isn't recommended; if you must, freeze the foil-wrapped brick for cooking only.
- Middle or back shelf, sealed
- Clean knife each time
- Rewrap cut bricks in foil
- Bring to room temp to spread
- Freeze for cooking only, 2 months max
Signs it has gone bad
- Mold on surface
- Sour or off smell
- Watery liquid pooling on top
- Yellow or pink discoloration
Frequently asked questions
How long does cream cheese last after opening?
Cream cheese keeps about 2 weeks in the fridge at 4°C.
Can you freeze cream cheese?
It isn't recommended — the texture goes grainy after thawing. Frozen cream cheese is only good for cooking and baking.
Is cream cheese still good past the date?
Use it within about 2 weeks. Check the smell, look for mold, and trust your senses.