Shelf-Life and Storage Suggestions
Chocolate
Dark chocolate can be kept for one to two years if wrapped in foil and stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. A pantry or basem*nt is an ideal location. Milk and white chocolate have a more limited storage time – no more than eight to ten months.
Hard Candy
Hard candies can last up to a year when stored at room temperature or in a cool, dry location.
Jellied Candies
If the packaging has been opened, soft candies should be kept in a covered candy dish, away from heat and light at room temperature (about 70 degrees). Stored in this manner, the candy should last six to nine months. If the packaging has not been opened, soft sweets will last approximately 12 months.
Candy Corn
While traditionally associated withHalloween, candy makers have madeChristmas,Valentine’s Day,andEaster-themed candy corn in recent years.Learn more about this popular candy.
If the packaging has been opened, candy corn should be stored under the same conditions as soft candies and will last approximately three to six months. Unopened, fresh packages will last about nine months.
Gum
As long as the packaging remains sealed, most gum products have a shelf-life of six to nine months. To maximize product freshness, keep chewing gum packages in a cool, dry place and out of any direct sunlight.
Caramel
Caramel treats should be kept covered, away from heat and light at room temperature. Stored properly, caramel should last six to nine months and even up to 12 months in some cases.
General Guidelines
Protect Candy in the Pantry.
While different types of candy have different storage requirements, the pantry is generally a safe place to stash sweets. Airtight storage in a cool place will ensure a longer shelf-life. Some treats may also be frozen.
Wrap It Up.
Treats such as taffies, caramels, and nougats should be protected from dampness during storage. Before storing away, make sure these sweets are wrapped individually with clear cellophane.
Use Caution When Freezing.
Freezing is a popular method for keeping candy over long periods of time. However, not all sweets are suited for the freezer. While toffee and truffles can be frozen for up to two months, avoid freezing candy with fruits and nuts.
Avoid Moisture Mixes.
Do not mix candies that absorb moisture – such as caramels, mints, and hard candies – with candies that lose moisture like fudge and creamy candies. Storing these sweets in the same container will cause the harder candies to become sticky. To make sure that hard candies stay hard, sprinkle with finely ground sugar and store in an airtight jar.
