How long can a cake sit without refridgeration?

Cakes that can be left out at room temperature:

* Cakes with lots of sugar: Sugar acts as a preservative, so cakes like pound cake, fruitcake, and gingerbread can sit out for 2-3 days.

* Cakes with a lot of butter or oil: These ingredients also help to preserve the cake.

* Cakes with strong flavors: Cakes with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg have a longer shelf life.

* Cakes with dense crumb: Cakes that aren't too moist can sit out longer.

Cakes that should be refrigerated:

* Cakes with fresh fruit: These cakes will spoil quickly at room temperature.

* Cakes with creamy fillings: Frostings made with cream cheese, whipped cream, or custard should be refrigerated to prevent bacterial growth.

* Cakes with custard or mousse fillings: These fillings are also prone to spoiling.

* Cakes with delicate crumb: Moist cakes like sponge cake or angel food cake can become stale quickly at room temperature.

General Tips:

* Always check the recipe: The best way to know how long a cake can sit out is to check the recipe.

* Store in an airtight container: This will help to keep the cake fresh and prevent it from drying out.

* Pay attention to signs of spoilage: Look for mold, discoloration, or a sour smell.

* When in doubt, refrigerate: If you're not sure whether or not a cake is safe to eat, it's always best to err on the side of caution and refrigerate it.

In general, it's best to refrigerate most cakes after 2 days to keep them fresh and safe to eat.