Does Rumchata Go Bad?

Rumchata is a cream liqueur that contains cinnamon and vanilla flavoring. It is creamy and smooth with just the right amount of cinnamon.

Although the cream somewhat softens the rum used to make rumchata, it has a distinct alcohol taste.

Rumchata is a versatile drink. You can drink it as it is on the rocks or use it in dairy cocktails. You can also use it to substitute other cream liqueurs or use it as a creamer.

If you just bought a bottle or have had one sitting in your pantry for a while, you may wonder, does rumchata go bad? The answer is simple. It is unlikely that rumchata will go bad due to the ingredients manufacturers use to make it.

Still, there are instances when it may go bad, especially if you don’t store it properly or store it beyond the recommended storage period.

This article discusses how to store rumchata, its shelf life, and freezing and how to thaw it properly. We will also look at a few signs that indicate rumchata is no longer fresh. Read on.

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How to Store Rumchata

It would be best if you stored rumchata the same way you store other rum-based beverages. The most important thing to note is that you should keep it far away from any heat source and at room temperature or below room temperature.

It would help if you also sealed the bottle tightly at all times. This way, it won’t become oxidized, and consequently, the liqueur won’t be susceptible to mold growth.

The ideal temperature for storing rumchata is anywhere between 50 degrees Fahrenheit and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, you can safely store it in your kitchen cabinet or pantry.

Although rumchata is a cream liqueur, you don’t necessarily have to refrigerate it, even after opening it. Therefore, if you leave the bottle on your kitchen counter, you don’t have to worry about it going bad.

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Rumchata Shelf Life at Room Temperature

As discussed above, you can store rumchata at room temperature, whether it is opened or unopened.

If unopened, a bottle of rumchata would last for several years stored at room temperature. When opened, the rumchata will retain its good quality for 12 months.

The liqueur won’t necessarily go bad after 12 months, but it will lose some or most of its spicy flavor. Therefore, you can still drink it after 12 months, but its quality won’t be the best.

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Rumchata Shelf Life In The Fridge

Refrigerating rumchata is unnecessary since it already has enough preservatives, but if you like serving your rumchata cold, you are free to store it in the fridge.

The shelf life of refrigerated rumchata is the same as that of unrefrigerated rumchata. It will last for several years when unopened and 12 months after you open the bottle.

The rumchata must be at a consistent temperature while in the fridge because if it isn’t, its taste will be altered significantly, and it may go bad.

Rumchata Shelf Life In The Freezer

Freezing rumchata is an option if you want it to last indefinitely.

Note that although the rumchata will last for a long time, its consistency may change significantly.

To get the best out of freeing rumchata, freeze the liqueur in ice cube trays. This way, freezing won’t entirely ruin its flavor and consistency.

How To Properly Freeze Rumchata

You can freeze rumchata to extend its already long shelf life. To freeze, first, transfer the liqueur into ice cube trays.

I don’t recommend freezing rumchata in its bottle because it will likely explode and mess up your freezer. Therefore, freezing it in ice cube trays is ideal.

Place the ice cube trays in your freezer and let the liqueur freeze. Your freezer needs to be at a constant temperature at all times for the rumchata to freeze properly.

Before using frozen rumchata, always check for mold growth or freezer burn. This way, you can be sure that it is still safe to consume.

How To Thaw Rumchata

When it comes to thawing rumchata, you have two options. You can either thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

To thaw rumchata in the refrigerator, remove it from the freezer, and place it in the fridge overnight. It would have thawed entirely by morning.

Alternatively, place the rumchata on your kitchen counter, but ensure it is away from direct sunlight. The liqueur will warm up and eventually thaw.

Signs That Rumchata Is No Longer Fresh

Manufacturers claim it is unlikely rumchata will go bad before you use it. However, if you have stored it for an extended time, it is best to check for any signs of spoilage before drinking it.

If you had not opened the bottle and the drink seems perfectly fine, the liqueur is safe to drink. Note that rumchata stored for a long time may not be as tasty as it should be, but it would still make for a decent drink.

If you have already opened the bottle, check for any of the following signs of spoilage: -

Change in appearance- check if the rumchata is different in color or if there is any growth inside the bottle. If this is the case, discard the rumchata as it is no longer safe to consume.
Strange smell- fresh rumchata has a unique, sweet, alcohol-like aroma. If yours smells sour, it is spoilt, and you should throw it out.
Weird taste- rumchata should have a pleasant taste. If it tastes bad, the chances are that it has gone bad.