Preparing meals properly in advance can be a smart, time-saving measure.

Rule of thumb: If a pie contains milk, cream and/or eggs, refrigerate it.

You’ll also want to refrigerate pies containing evaporated or condensed milk products.

Mississippi Sweet Potato Pie With Bourbon Whipped Cream

Credit: Jennifer Causey Food Stylist: Torie Cox Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

Those ingredients contain high levels of protein and moisture that are fertile grounds for the growth of bacteria.

After baking your pie, let it cool completely.

Loosely cover the pie with aluminum foil before refrigerating for up to three days.

To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight.

You may prefer to serve the pie room temperature.