Aside from the baking process, storing homemade brownies is one of the concerns among new bakers.
This is because, like any food, improper storage can cause homemade brownies to spoil quickly.
Although homemade brownies are versatile but they won’t last forever.
So, how long do homemade brownies last?
If properly stored, homemade brownies can last up to three to four days. This really depends on how you store homemade brownies.
But if you follow the following tips, your baked goods will keep fresh for days.
How to store homemade brownies?
First, store your brownies in an airtight container.
Homemade brownies should be stored in a freezer-safe container with a tight seal.
If the brownies are not stored in an airtight container or if they are exposed to open air, they can get stale quickly, and this may result in a dry and crumbly texture.
Second, you should place homemade brownies inside the fridge.
Homemade brownies should be stored inside the refrigerator to maintain their freshness for several days.
The key here is to always place it inside an airtight container, especially if you are not planning to consume the brownies right away.
Some people prefer to leave their brownies in the pan, which prevents them from drying out.
However, this can also cause your homemade brownies to absorb the fridge odors.
If that happens, it can affect the taste and texture of your brownies.
Lastly, you can keep homemade brownies at room temperature.
Homemade brownies can last for several days when stored at room temperature, but they should be consumed within three days.
How long do homemade chocolate brownies last?
Homemade chocolate brownies can last for up to 3 to 4 days if stored properly.
The brownies should be stored at room temperature inside an airtight container and consumed within three days.
If your homemade brownies do not have eggs, vanilla extract, and baking powder can last for up to seven days.
While homemade brownies with chocolate chips and nuts last for up to four days.
On the other hand, homemade brownies that include chocolate bars and chocolate instant pudding mix can last for up to five days.
Are homemade brownies still good after a week?
If your homemade brownies are still good after a week, it is safe to assume that they have gone past their prime.
Although some food experts say that brownies can last for several days, it will be much safer to use them right away.
If you are unsure whether the brownies have already gone bad, conduct a smell test to check whether they are still fresh.
Mature brownies will have a rich and distinct chocolate flavor. On the other hand, if your brownies taste stale, this may be a sign that it is unfit to eat.
Brownies are best enjoyed within several days after baking, so you should store them properly to ensure a fresh and scrumptious dessert.
How to make brownies last longer?
If you want to enjoy your brownies for a longer period of time, it is best to freeze them.
Homemade brownies can easily be frozen if placed inside a freezer-safe container.
Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic or place it inside a freezer bag for added protection.
A properly wrapped and frozen brownie will last for up to one month, but it is best to consume them within a week.
How to know if homemade brownies have gone bad?
There are many indicators of spoilage when homemade brownies have gone bad. This mainly depends on how you store them.
Some indicators of spoilage are as follows:
If your baked brownies are covered in weird molds or spots (black or green), this is a clear indication that they have gone bad.
Homemade brownies should not be consumed if it has had any contact with molds or bacteria.
If your brownies are soft, sticky, smelly, damp or slimy, you should throw them away.
Homemade brownies should not have any foul smells, and they should only smell like chocolate.
If homemade brownies are not stored properly, they will degrade quickly and may even develop mold.
This is the reason why they should always be stored inside an airtight container.
If the brownies are already in contact with open air, they may develop undesirable dry, crumbly textures.
Can you leave brownies out overnight?
As long as covered properly, you can leave brownies out overnight.
During summertime, you can leave homemade brownies outside for up to eight hours.
But if it is cold or humid outside, you should not leave the brownies out for more than four hours.
If you are planning on leaving your brownies outside overnight, make sure to keep it in an airtight container.
Even if you leave your brownies outside for a short period of time, it is still best to eat them right away so they would not dry up.
Brownies that have been left outside for a long period of time can develop unwanted smells, tastes, and textures.
Some of the most common food-borne pathogens associated with brownies are salmonella, E. coli, and listeria.
Once the brownies are affected, they are no longer safe for consumption.
Thus, if you see some signs of spoilage, it is better to discard your brownies immediately.
Final Thoughts
In summary, homemade brownies can last for three to four days if properly stored.
You can also make your homemade brownies last for a month or more by freezing them.
Brownies should be consumed before the expiration date, and stored inside an airtight container.
You should also remember that brownies are best the first few days after baking, so it is recommended to consume homemade brownies within a week.
I hope this helps. Thank you for reading.
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