Close-up of a young man's hand holding a doughnut
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It's no surprise that doughnuts are Homer Simpson's favorite food. Though they're best served fresh, doughnuts can be stored and eaten later. The optimum method depends on the type and when you plan to eat them. Most unfilled doughnuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, out of direct sunlight, for a day or two. Filled varieties and longer preservation require use of a refrigerator or freezer.

Fridge or Freezer?

Wrap plain filled and unfilled doughnuts individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for three or four days. You can preserve those topped with a frosting or glaze by gently setting a piece of waxed paper over each one, and storing them in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge. Revive the taste and texture of a refrigerated doughnut before you eat it with a few seconds in the microwave. Both filled and unfilled doughnuts can be frozen for two to three months, according to Still Tasty, but they must be sealed in airtight containers or tightly wrapped in plastic. Some toppings, such as cereal and bacon, become stale or chewy in the fridge or freezer, so aim to eat those doughnuts quickly.