Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
Refrigerate
once opened
In the fridgeFridge
14 months
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
Not recommended
texture or safety suffers
On the counterCounter
5–10 days
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
Not needed
shelf-stable
In the freezerFreezer
Not recommended
texture or safety suffers
Quick answer
Yes. Danish pastries last 14 months in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if danish pastries are bad
Smell
Musty, sour or alcoholic smell.
Texture
Hard and dry is stale but safe; damp or sticky is not.
Colour
Discoloured spots on the crust or crumb.
Mould
Any visible mould — discard the whole item; roots spread unseen.
Danish pastries past the expiration date
Unopened
FoodKeeper gives unopened danish pastries 5–10 days in the pantry, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Opened
Once opened, the printed date no longer applies. Count 14 months in the fridge from the day you open it.
How to keep danish pastries fresh longer
- Keep at room temperature in a bread box or sealed bag for the best texture.
- Refrigeration slows mould but makes bread stale faster.
- Freeze what you will not eat in time.
More about danish pastries
FAQ
How long does it take for danish pastries to go bad?
14 months in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper.
Can danish pastries expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened danish pastries 5–10 days in the pantry, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad danish pastries?
Usually an unpleasant taste rather than illness, but discard anything mouldy, rancid or smelling off.
How do you keep danish pastries from going bad?
Keep at room temperature in a bread box or sealed bag for the best texture.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number