Have you bought a large slab of fudge from the candy store? Or maybe you have some delicious homemade fudge leftover from last week’s gathering, and now you’re left wondering if it’s still good for consumption.
How long does fudge last depends on how well you store it. Generally, homemade fudge can last you for about two weeks in the pantry and up to 4 weeks in the fridge.
| Past Sell By Date | Pantry | Fridge |
| Homemade fudge | 1 to 2 Weeks | 3 to 4 Weeks |
| Commercial fudge | Best by 1 Week | 2 to 3 Weeks |
What is fudge?
Fudge1 is a type of candy usually made by mixing butter, milk, and sugar. All you have to do is heat the mixture until soft and creamy and then allow it to cool in a pan. The result is a smooth, soft, and creamy slab of crystallized sugar candy1.
You can add additional flavors such as peanut butter, chocolate, vanilla, and lots more to make all kinds of fudge as per your likings.
How long can fudge sit out unrefrigerated?
Both homemade and store-bought fudge can sit out unrefrigerated for a week or two as long as you store them properly. If you opt for storing fudge in the pantry, make sure to store it in an airtight container, away from sunlight.
Storing fudge in an airtight container is the best way to seal out extra moisture and retain its original quality.
How to tell if fudge has gone bad?
Finding signs of spoilage in fudge is quite tricky. As with other foods, you can easily tell by signs of mold, discolorations, rancid smell, etc.
However, it is unlikely that stale fudge will rot or form any molds. Instead, when fudge goes bad, it may lose its texture and taste.
Fudge that has gone bad will appear drier than usual and give off a foul taste. It is not poisonous to consume old fudge, but it is safer to toss it in the trash.
In case the fudge becomes extremely hard, or you notice an oily sheen on its surface, these are clear signs that you should immediately discard it.
Can you freeze fudge?
Yes, you can freeze2 both homemade and commercial fudge. Just make sure to freeze them in large slabs instead of cutting them into smaller cubes.
Freezing fudge3 in slabs will retain their quality better and prevent over-drying. You can double wrap the fudge, put it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and then store it in the freezer.
How to store fudge?
You can store fudge almost anywhere – in the pantry, refrigerator, or the freezer. Whichever way you pick, make sure to store fudge in an airtight container2 and away from sunlight or direct heat source.
For unopened commercial fudge, you can even store them in their original packaging. Once opened, it is best to store them airtight!2
Conclusion:
Making and storing fudge is super easy and hassle-free! If you store it the right way, you can enjoy your delicious homemade or store-bought fudge for up to a week or two. Always make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep out excess moisture, and you’re good to go!
References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fudge
- https://www.leaf.tv/articles/the-best-way-to-store-fudge/
- https://www.triofudge.com/pages/faqs
