Introduction
There is a very low chance that people can resist a hot delicious brownie. In fact, brownies are consumed a lot all over the world because it’s fairly easy to make but have the perfect flavor.
Nowadays, you can freely create any variants of brownie cakes at home with the sufficiency of kitchen utensils. But for those who are super busy and have to prepare countless brownies for a holiday party, the brownie mix is an ideal option that is inexpensive and really convenient.
Although the store-bought brownie mix is not really good for our health due to the high percentage of sugar and some preservation additives, you can make it healthier by adding some veggie ingredients or if you consume it with the controlled and suitable amount, you can still be healthy and satisfied with those tasty brownies.
However, there must be a lot of questions in your mind about how to store this processed brownie mix so that its shelf life can be maximized as much as possible or can brownie mix go bad. In the article below, you will gain essential knowledge of the brownie mix to answer all these questions.
How long does brownie mix last?
A package of unboxed or boxed brownie mix can last 12 to 18 months for the best quality. Normally, you will see the best-by date on the label of these packages but it doesn’t mean that you cannot use the mix for baking after that date.
Brownie mix can be safe at room temperature after the best-before date 4 to 5 more months if properly stored so you don’t really need to be worried.
So does brownie mix actually expire? As mentioned above, with a proper way to store it, there isn’t really much to be concerned about the expiration date of this cake mix. It will be safe to be used, but the flavor or texture may depend on a lot of factors.
How to tell if brownie mix goes bad?
Is it a bad idea to use an expired brownie mix? Actually, the date on the label is the best-by date and after that date, it’s fine to use the mix although it might taste quite as good. There are some identifications when the brownie mix goes bad, not really harmful and it’s even the more preferred condition of some people.
The leaving system in the brownie mix ingredients such as baking powder or other baking chemicals has a certain shelf life. After that time, they might lose the potency and result in deflated brownies which sometimes turn out to be some personal preferences.
The cocoa may not have a rich chocolate taste as initial but you can fix it by adding to the mix your other favorite flavors, but if you are a picky one, go buy another package of brownie mix, it’s your choice. However, if insects have penetrated inside your brownie mix, or there is mold on the surface, you need to discard the mix right away.
How to store brownie mix?
The best way to store an unopened box of brownie mix is to keep it in the original sealed package in a dry and cool place. Your pantry or the kitchen cabinet will be ideal places.
It’s unnecessary to refrigerate or freeze the mix if you haven’t opened it as the cold temperature won’t help much to lengthen the brownie mix life. Just do it as the last resort if you have no more space in the pantry.
You can still leave your brownie mix at room temperature once opened, but make sure that the container or package that time needs to be covered completely and stay away from any source of heat or direct sunlight.
For a better result, you should store your opened cake mix in the fridge or freezer to extend the shelf life of the mix.
Can you freeze brownie mix?
Yes, you can freeze brownie mix in a freezer, especially when there are leftovers in the package after the first use. Freezing will allow the mix to keep the best quality for a longer period of time.
How to freeze brownie mix?
Now you are going to learn how to freeze brownie mix properly in just some simple steps.
Tips to freeze brownie mix
- When you keep the brownie mix in the vacuum-sealed bag, don’t forget to flat the mix so that it can be frozen evenly
- Always ensure that the container lid or the bag is sealed tightly to completely cover brownie mix from any moisture in the freezer and prevent freezer burn
- You can also prepare the brownie mix ahead of time then freeze the brownie batter
Things you’ll need to freeze brownie mix
- A vacuum-sealed bag or an airtight container
How to freeze brownie mix in just 2 steps
- Place your brownie mix in a covered airtight container or a vacuum-sealed bag
- Label the bag or container with the storage date then stick in the freezer
How to defrost/ thaw brownie mix?
Defrosting the brownie mix is so simple. You just need to transfer the freezer bag or container from the freezer to your kitchen counter and let it thaw naturally at room temperature for several hours. Or you can thaw it in the fridge too.
There is no need to reheat brownie mix, just directly use it after thawing to bake a batch of delicious brownies.