Dairy Products & Eggs

How long does eggnog last in the fridge?

3–5 days
Fridge, from purchase — USDA FoodKeeper guidance for eggnog (commercial)

Store-bought eggnog keeps 3–5 days in the fridge once you bring it home — freeze the carton for 6 months if the season got ahead of you.

How long does it keep?

Fridge, from purchase 3–5 days
Freezer, from purchase 6 months

Can you freeze eggnog? FREEZES, BUT…

Can it sit out?

Eggnog is perishable — the FSIS 2-hour rule applies.

Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).

The 2-hour rule, in full →

How to tell if eggnog has gone bad

  • A sour smell where the sweet, nutmeg-y one should be
  • Curdled specks that cling to the side of the glass
  • A pour gone thick and sluggish

When in doubt, throw it out.

Frozen eggnog separates as it thaws — shake it hard or run it through the blender before it hits a cup.

Quick answers

How long does eggnog last in the fridge?

Store-bought eggnog keeps 3–5 days in the fridge once you bring it home — freeze the carton for 6 months if the season got ahead of you.

Can you freeze eggnog?

Commercial eggnog freezes for 6 months and thaws separated — shake it hard to drink it, or pour it into French toast and be glad.

How long can eggnog sit out?

The FSIS 2-hour rule applies to eggnog. Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).