Can Cookies Be Left Out? To Leave Out or Not to Leave Out?

In my series of cookie questions, another one of the top questions was, “Can Cookies Be Left Out?”.

Alright, let's tackle the dilemma: can you leave them out? The short answer is yes, but with a few caveats. Cookies can be left out at room temperature for about a week, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

First off, the type of cookie matters. Some cookies, like soft-baked or chewy varieties, may not last as long as their crispy counterparts. Also, the ambient temperature plays a role. If it's hot and humid, your cookies might not last as long as they would in a cool, dry environment.

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps protect them from moisture and air, which can cause them to go stale. If you live in a humid area, you might want to store your cookies in the fridge to extend their shelf life.

Now, if you've got a surplus of cookies (lucky you!), you can always freeze them. Just pop them in an airtight container or resealable bag and store them in the freezer for up to a few months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a bit or give them a quick warm-up in the oven.