Do you need to refrigerate desserts made with sour cream?

Here's why:

* Sour cream is a dairy product: Dairy products are highly susceptible to bacterial growth, which can cause foodborne illness. Refrigeration slows down this growth.

* Sour cream is a perishable ingredient: Sour cream has a short shelf life and will quickly spoil at room temperature.

* Desserts made with sour cream often contain other perishable ingredients: These could include eggs, milk, or fruit, further increasing the need for refrigeration.

To ensure safety, always refrigerate desserts made with sour cream:

* Immediately after preparation: This helps prevent bacteria from growing.

* Store them in an airtight container: This prevents the dessert from absorbing odors from the fridge.

* Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below: This is the ideal temperature for safe food storage.

Important Note: Some desserts, like cheesecake, may have instructions to bring them to room temperature before serving. This does not mean you should leave them out at room temperature for a long time. Only bring them to room temperature for a short period before serving.