Our morning rituals often revolve around a steaming cup of coffee. But what happens when you brew a pot and can’t finish it all?
The idea of saving it for later might lead you to wonder: can you put hot coffee directly into the fridge?
This article looks into cooling hot coffee in the fridge, the effects on the flavor and aroma of coffee, and provides practical tips for those looking to preserve their brew’s freshness.
Key Takeaways
Can I put hot coffee in the fridge? You can put hot coffee in the fridge, but ideally let it cool down to room temperature first, use a container designed for the fridge and avoid placing it near any other food in the fridge.
Is Putting Hot Coffee in the Fridge Bad?
You can put hot coffee in the fridge, but there are some things to keep in mind.
Placing hot coffee directly in the fridge isn’t the best idea. It can raise the internal temperature of the fridge, making it work harder to cool down, which can increase energy consumption and potentially shorten the appliance’s lifespan.
If you must put hot coffee in the fridge then it is important to use a container that is designed for the fridge, such as a glass or plastic container, and, importantly, with a lid.
This will help:
- keep condensation within the container so it cannot affect the fridge and its contents
- prevent the coffee from absorbing any odors or flavors from other foods in the fridge.
It is important to understand that hot coffee in the fridge can cause a rapid temperature change, which can lead to condensation. This condensation can dilute the coffee and affect its flavor.
To prevent this, it’s recommended that you let the coffee cool down to room temperature before putting it in the fridge.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid placing the hot coffee container near any food in the fridge to prevent spoiling nearby food. Heat is able to easily transfer from a container to other items in a certain vicinity, which is why hot coffee placed in the refrigerator could cause food to spoil.
Storing Hot Coffee in the Fridge
When you have leftover hot coffee, you may wonder if it’s safe to store it in the fridge. The good news is that it’s perfectly fine to do so.
However, there are some things you should keep in mind to ensure that your coffee stays fresh and doesn’t spoil any other food in your fridge.
Choosing the Right Container
The first thing you need to consider is the container you use to store your hot coffee. It’s essential to choose a suitable container that can withstand the sudden temperature change from hot to cold. A glass or airtight container is an excellent choice for storing hot coffee in the fridge.
A mason jar is also a great option as it’s made of thick glass and has an airtight lid that seals in the freshness of your coffee.
Avoid using plastic containers as they can absorb odors and flavors from other foods in your fridge, which can affect the taste of your coffee. If you must use a plastic container, make sure it’s BPA-free and food-grade.
Avoiding Odors
The next thing to consider is avoiding odors. Coffee is a highly aromatic beverage, and it can easily absorb odors from other foods in your fridge. To prevent this from happening, store your hot coffee in an airtight container. This will not only keep your coffee fresh but also prevent it from picking up any unwanted odors.
Proper Positioning in the Fridge
Finally, it’s important to position your container correctly in the fridge. When storing hot coffee in the fridge, it’s best to place it on the top shelf, away from any raw or cooked foods. This will prevent any accidental spills or leaks from contaminating other food items.
It’s also a good idea to let your hot coffee cool down to room temperature before placing it in the fridge. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can dilute your coffee and affect its flavor.
Can You Reheat Coffee from the Fridge?
If you’ve ever found yourself with leftover coffee in the fridge, you may be wondering if it’s safe to reheat and drink. The good news is, you can reheat coffee from the fridge. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best taste and quality.
First, make sure that your coffee is stored in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors or flavors from the fridge. It’s also important to note that coffee will start to lose its flavor and aroma after a few days in the fridge, so it’s best to consume it within four days.
When reheating your coffee, it’s best to do so on the stove or in the microwave. If using the microwave, be sure to use a microwave-safe container and heat it in short intervals to prevent it from overheating or boiling over. You can also add a splash of fresh hot water or milk to help revive the flavor.
It’s important to note that reheating coffee can alter its taste and quality. The longer coffee sits in the fridge, the more it will oxidize and lose its flavor. So, while it’s safe to reheat coffee from the fridge, it’s best to consume it as soon as possible for the best taste and quality.
My name is Dana Dupree and I am an avid coffee lover. Since I began college and realized what a heavy load writing majors took on, I have been a fan of the bean juice.
My job took me all over the US on book tours and press conferences, and my favorite part about the trip was exploring the best places to grab my cup of Joe.
