How long can a cream cheese and sour cake sit out before going bad?

You should not let a cream cheese and sour cream cake sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. This is because dairy products like cream cheese and sour cream are highly perishable and can quickly grow bacteria that cause spoilage.

Here's a breakdown:

* Room temperature (70°F or 21°C): Bacteria thrive in this environment and can multiply rapidly in cream cheese and sour cream, leading to spoilage within a couple of hours.

* Refrigeration (40°F or 4°C): This significantly slows down bacterial growth, allowing the cake to last for several days.

For optimal safety and quality:

* Refrigerate your cream cheese and sour cream cake immediately after it's made.

* Don't leave it out for longer than 2 hours.

* If you're unsure about its safety, throw it away.

Remember: It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety.