How long can homemade chocolate chip cookie dough be at room temperature?

It is not safe to leave homemade chocolate chip cookie dough at room temperature for any extended period.

Here's why:

* Bacteria growth: Room temperature is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can be present in raw eggs and flour.

* Food poisoning risk: Consuming raw cookie dough can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The safest option:

* Refrigerate your cookie dough: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

* Freeze it: For longer storage, freeze the dough in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Remember: Always cook your cookie dough thoroughly before eating to kill any harmful bacteria.