How Long Does Brewed Espresso Last in the Fridge?
Short Answer: Brewed espresso shots typically last 3-7 days in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container. For best flavor, consume within 1-2 days. How long it lasts can be shorter depending on the type of espresso drink, the storage container, and the presence of milk, sweetener, or other additives. To extend the shelf life of brewed espresso, use an airtight container. It also helps to store it in the coldest part of the fridge. It is best to drink espresso within a few minutes of brewing. Still, if you must keep your espresso drink for later, you should only leave it in the refrigerator for a short time.
If you make espresso at home regularly, you've probably had a situation where you needed more time to drink or finish your espresso drink.
Maybe you considered saving your espresso shot for later.
The question ran through your mind, how long does brewed espresso last in the fridge?
How long can you safely drink it after brewing it?
Days? Weeks?
This article will explore how long brewed espresso lasts in the fridge and the freezer.
We'll even provide tips for storing it properly to keep it fresh.
Whatever espresso drinks you are a fan of, this information will help ensure that your favorite drink stays flavorful.
What is the Shelf Life of Brewed Espresso in the Fridge?
Typically, espresso shots will last in the fridge for a few days.
Some sources say they can last up to a week.
The longer the shots sit in the fridge, the more the flavors may degrade, and the less fresh they will taste.
For maximum flavor, it is best to drink espresso shots within a few minutes of brewing.
Factors that Impact Espresso Freshness
Several factors can impact the shelf life of espresso shots when stored in the fridge.
By understanding these factors, you can better estimate how long your shots will last and take steps to extend their freshness.
Type of Espresso Drink
Different types of espresso drinks can last different amounts of time in the fridge.
Shots that contain milk or other additives may spoil more quickly than straight espresso shots.
Milk has a relatively short shelf life in the fridge, typically lasting about a week after opening before it starts to sour.
If you're adding milk to your espresso shots, it's best to use them within a few days to ensure maximum freshness.
Storage Container Choice
A container with an open or loose-fitting lid can allow oxygen and bacteria to enter and damage the espresso, lowering its shelf life.
Additives Like Milk and Sweeteners
Besides milk, other additives, such as syrups or flavorings, can shorten the shelf life of espresso shots in the fridge.
Sugar can help extend the shelf life of brewed espresso by hindering the growth of bacteria.
The moisture content of honey or syrups encourages the growth of bacteria and shortens the life of brewed espresso.
Aspartame, saccharin, and other artificial sweeteners are more stable when added to espresso drinks.
Best Practices for Storing Espresso in the Fridge
Here are some tips for preserving the most flavor if you need to refrigerate or freeze your espresso.
Use an airtight glass container.
Glass containers with tight-fitting lids, preferably airtight, are an excellent choice to help prevent oxidation and bacteria growth.
Use glass containers with tight seals to prevent contamination and flavor degradation.
Store in the coldest part of the fridge
Placing the espresso shots in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the back or bottom, can help slow down the spoiling process.
Avoid leaving espresso drinks in the fridge for too long.
Avoid storing espresso in the fridge door, where temperature fluctuations are more common.
It's better to be safe and discard them rather than risk drinking espresso that has gone bad.
Store your espresso without milk or sweeteners
Mixing your espresso with milk and sweeteners can shorten the time espresso is flavorful and safe to consume.
Can You Freeze Brewed Espresso?
Brewed espresso can last several months in the freezer, but the flavor and quality will degrade as time passes.
Freezing brewed espresso can help extend its shelf life.
The freezing process can cause the flavors and aromas of the brewed espresso to become muted or distorted, and the texture may also change. The brewed espresso may become more concentrated as the water expands and crystallizes during freezing.
Worry Less with a Pre-Brewed Coffee Service?
A company called Cometeer takes high quality specialty coffee and expertly brews it at peak freshness.
The result, cafe quality coffee delivered to your door in convenient packaging that you can throw in the fridge or the freezer.
You grab a shot out of the freeze and add water or milk to make your favorite coffee drink.
You can even throw it in your bag in the morning to make your drink at work.
Currently they brew coffee from some of our favorite roasters like Bird Rock, Onyx and Go Get Em Tiger.
To Summarize
We broke down the factors that impact how long espresso can last and some tips to help you get the most flavor out of the espresso you saved for later.
Proper storage is the key to keeping espresso shots fresh and flavorful in the fridge.
Espresso is a beverage best enjoyed within a few minutes of brewing, but if you must store your brewed shots in the fridge, remember to:
Use an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Store in the coldest part of the fridge to slow down flavor degradation.
Consume within 3-7 days for the best taste.
Avoid milk and sweeteners if storing for more than a day.
Hopefully, with these tips, your espresso drink will taste as good as the day you put it in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does brewed espresso last in the fridge?
Brewed espresso can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. However, for optimal flavor and freshness, it's best to consume it within 1-2 days.
Can I freeze brewed espresso to extend its shelf life?
Yes, you can freeze brewed espresso to extend its shelf life. Freezing can preserve it for several months, but be aware that the flavor and quality may degrade over time. It's recommended to use frozen espresso in recipes or iced beverages rather than consuming it plain.
Does adding milk or sweeteners affect the shelf life of refrigerated espresso?
Yes, adding milk or sweeteners can shorten the shelf life of refrigerated espresso. Milk, in particular, has a shorter shelf life and can spoil within a few days. It's advisable to add milk or sweeteners just before consumption to maintain freshness.
How should I store brewed espresso in the fridge to maintain its quality?
Store brewed espresso in an airtight glass container to prevent oxidation and contamination. Place it in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the back or bottom shelf, to slow down the spoiling process.
Can I reheat refrigerated espresso?
Reheating refrigerated espresso is not recommended, as it can result in a bitter taste and alter the original flavor profile. If you prefer a hot beverage, it's best to brew a fresh shot of espresso.
