Can you leave a cake frosted with cream cheese frosting at room temperature?

It's generally not recommended to leave a cake frosted with cream cheese frosting at room temperature for extended periods. Here's why:

* Spoilage: Cream cheese frosting is a dairy product and is susceptible to bacterial growth at room temperature. This can cause the frosting to spoil, leading to an unpleasant taste and potential health risks.

* Melting: The butter in cream cheese frosting can melt at room temperature, making the frosting runny and difficult to handle.

* Texture Changes: The frosting can become soft and lose its structure, making it difficult to spread or slice.

Here's what you can do:

* Refrigerate the cake: It's best to keep the cake in the refrigerator, especially for longer storage.

* Serve quickly: If you're serving the cake within a few hours, you can leave it at room temperature for a short time.

* Keep it covered: Use a cake dome or wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap to protect it from dust and insects.

Remember, the safety of your cake depends on the ambient temperature and how long it's left out. If you're unsure, it's always best to err on the side of caution and refrigerate it.