Smoked cream cheese is a bit like a high-maintenance friend – it needs to be handled with care, or it'll turn against you. Temperature control is key, so make sure you store it in the fridge at a consistent temperature below 40°F (4°C). If you don't, you might end up with a science experiment in your fridge, and trust us, you don't want that!
Now, you might be thinking, "But what about freezing? Can I just chuck it in the freezer and forget about it?" Well, yes and no – freezing will extend the shelf life, but it's not a get-out-of-jail-free card. Frozen smoked cream cheese can last for about 6 to 9 months, but when you thaw it, you might notice a change in texture, and let's be real, nobody likes a soggy cheese!