Is it better to refrigerate a baked pie or leave on counter overnight?

Here's why:

* Food safety: Leaving a pie at room temperature for an extended period, especially overnight, increases the risk of bacterial growth, which can cause food poisoning.

* Quality degradation: The pie's crust will likely become soggy, the filling will lose its texture, and the overall flavor will be compromised.

It's best to refrigerate a baked pie:

* Refrigerate within 2 hours of baking: This helps to slow down bacterial growth and preserve the pie's quality.

* Store in an airtight container: This prevents the pie from absorbing odors and keeps it fresh.

Note: Some pies, such as cream pies, may require special handling and should be refrigerated immediately after baking.

In summary, always refrigerate a baked pie to ensure food safety and maintain its quality.