Does a buffet get longer?

Not at room temperature. Food kept at 140°F or warmer, or 40°F or colder, is the exception. Some warming trays only reach 110 to 120°F, so check yours.

Can pecan or pumpkin pie stay out?

Only for 2 hours after it cools. Pies made with eggs, like pumpkin and pecan, belong in the refrigerator and keep about 4 days.

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How long can cooked food sit out?

Q: How long can cooked food sit out?

2 hours. Cooked food can stay out for 2 hours, counted from when it comes off the heat. If the room is above 90°F, that drops to 1 hour. Food that's been out longer should be thrown out, even if it looks fine.

2 hours

Cooked food can stay out for 2 hours, counted from when it comes off the heat. If the room is above 90°F, that drops to 1 hour. Food that's been out longer should be thrown out, even if it looks fine.

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The Christmas dinner

How much turkey do I need per person?

How much ham do I need per person?

How much prime rib do I need per person?

How long does it take to thaw a turkey in the refrigerator?

What temperature should a turkey be cooked to?

What temperature should ham and beef roasts be cooked to?

How long do Christmas leftovers last in the refrigerator?

How long do Christmas cookies last, and can you freeze them?

Is homemade eggnog safe to drink?

Does a buffet get longer?: Not at room temperature. Food kept at 140°F or warmer, or 40°F or colder, is the exception. Some warming trays only reach 110 to 120°F, so check yours.
Can pecan or pumpkin pie stay out?: Only for 2 hours after it cools. Pies made with eggs, like pumpkin and pecan, belong in the refrigerator and keep about 4 days.

Our Christmas charcuterie board Our pecan pie

See the whole Christmas Checklist

Last checked Monday, November 9, from FDA and university extension services.

From our shop Tartan tumbler For the first cup of the day, before the oven is even warm. Our tartan tumbler.