How Long Do English Muffins Last?

If you’re a fan of English muffins, it’s important to know how long they’re good for. Otherwise, you’ll sink your teeth into an off-tasting breakfast good that can ruin your whole day. To avoid this issue, eat them within a few days if left on the countertop and within three months if frozen.

Hi! My name is Michelle, and I am a huge fan of English muffins! I eat them with butter, and jelly or assemble them into delicious breakfast and lunch sandwiches. That said, I eat enough English muffins to know how to store them properly – and how long they last.

For English muffin lovers that want to extend the lifespan of their baked goods, keep reading! Below you will find out everything you need to know about how long English muffins last. 

Let’s take a closer look at English muffin longevity.

How Long Do English Muffins Last?

Most of the time, a package of English muffins comes with eight muffins. But regardless of the size, English muffins will typically last three or four days at room temperature on your kitchen countertop.

Now, this is fine if you’re an absolute English muffin fanatic or have a large family that can gobble them up within the specified timeframe. But for me? We’re a smaller family of three that likes to switch up the routine. There’s no way we could eat them in four days.

So what should you do if you can’t scarf down these baked goods in time?

Should You Refrigerate English Muffins?

When you think of extending the lifespan of basically any food, most people think of the refrigerator. It’s simple – just toss the items into the fridge and enjoy several more days or even weeks than specified.

While you can put your English muffins in the fridge, I will be honest with you – they lose texture and quality a lot quicker this way. So, unless you want a somewhat dried-out and less flavorful English muffin, I recommend you ditch the fridge.

Keep in mind, though, that English muffins with toppings on top must be refrigerated. After all, who wants to eat a breakfast sandwich that’s been sitting on the countertop for three days? No, thanks!

Should You Freeze English Muffins?

On the other hand, freezing is a great idea! English muffins can successfully be frozen for at least three months at a time – when stored properly, of course. After the three-month mark, your English muffins won’t go bad, but they may start to deteriorate or get freezer burn.

Now, the same is not true for English muffins with toppings. If you’re anything like me, you enjoy crafting together sandwiches with English muffins. I use cheeses, deli meats, bacon, and a whole lot more. Do these also last three months in the freezer?

No. Due to the other ingredients used, English muffins with toppings should only be frozen for around one month. Otherwise, the other ingredients (cheese, meat, etc.) can start to lose their quality and texture. Yuck!

The Right Way to Freeze English Muffins

As I just mentioned, English muffins need to be frozen the right way to keep their freshness for up to three months or more. To store them properly, do the following:

1. Cut the English muffins in half using a fork, not a knife, to keep the internal structure intact.
2. Wrap separately in plastic wrap, parchment paper, aluminum foil, etc.
3. Place all of the halves into an airtight container or freezer plastic bag.
4. Place the container or bag into the back of the freezer, possibly on a lower shelf, where the temperature won’t fluctuate.

If your English muffins have toppings, then you don’t need to cut and wrap them separately. Instead, package the sandwiches individually and then place them inside the container or freezer bag with the same placement. 

FAQs

Still have questions about English muffin longevity? Then take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions below.

Can you eat English muffins past the expiration date?

If your English muffins were stored in the refrigerator or freezer, they would likely last beyond the expiration date. The best thing to do is to do a sight and smell check. If the English muffin is discolored or has an off taste, discard it. If mold appears, discard the entire package.

Why do English muffins need to be refrigerated?

English muffins do not have to be refrigerated, although they can be. Really, though, the best way to extend longevity is to freeze them. However, English muffins with toppings on top can be placed in the refrigerator for around a week.

Should I freeze or refrigerate English muffins?

If you need your English muffins to last beyond a few days, it is best to freeze them for the best quality. 

Final Thoughts

If you can’t consume your English muffins three or four days after purchasing, it’s recommended to store them in the freezer (correctly) for up to three months.

How do you store your English muffins? Share below!

I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.