How To Store Brownies
Here’s an essential guide on how to store brownies so you can indulge in their chocolatey goodness whenever you’d like.
Whether you’re indulging in some fudgy vegan brownies or black bean brownies, proper storage is crucial to maintaining their delicious flavor and texture. Get tips and tricks for room temperature, fridge and freezer storage.
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How To Store Homemade Brownies at Room Temperature
- Let brownies cool completely: This ensures they are set and don’t become mushy.
- Wrap tightly: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from getting in and drying them out.
- Store in an airtight container: Place the brownies in a tightly sealed container once wrapped. This will further help to prevent air from getting in and keep the brownies fresh. They can also be stored in the pan they were baked in, as long as it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Keep in a cool, dry place: Preferably away from direct sunlight or heat. A pantry or cupboard is a good option.
- Check on them regularly: If they start to dry out, wrap them in fresh plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then return them to the container.
Refrigerating Brownies
- Allow brownies to cool down before refrigerating them. If refrigerated while still warm, condensation can form and make them soggy.
- Wrap them in plastic wrap to keep them from drying out. For added protection, pack them in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. After that, they may start to dry out or lose their texture. Let them come to room temperature for 20-30 minutes, or microwave them for 15 to 20 seconds before eating for a chewier texture.
Freezing Brownies
- Cool the batch before freezing them. If you freeze them while still warm, they will develop ice crystals and become wet and mushy upon thawing.
- Cut into portions or squares that are easy to grab and serve later.
- Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and to keep them fresh.
- Place the wrapped brownies into a resealable plastic freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. Alternatively, use an airtight container.
- Label the bag or container with the date that the brownies were stored. This is a great way to track their stay in the freezer.
- Place the bag or container in the freezer, ensuring it’s level and won’t be crushed by other items.
Tips for Freezing Brownies
- Freeze brownies for up to 3 months for the best quality.
- Thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before serving or at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.
- Avoid refreezing brownies that have already been thawed, as this can lead to a loss of texture and flavor.
- I don’t recommend freezing cake-like brownies as they dry out much quicker than fudgy brownies.
Thawing Frozen Brownies
- Remove the frozen brownies from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator. Leave them to thaw for several hours or overnight.
- You can use a microwave to thaw the brownies quickly. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on low power for 10-second intervals. Check after each break, as overheating can cause them to burn.
- Serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
How Long Do Homemade Brownies Last
Homemade brownies can last 3 to 4 days at room temperature if appropriately stored in an airtight container.
However, to extend their shelf life, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
It’s best to store brownies in a container, separated from other foods, to avoid absorbing odors.
The texture and flavor of the brownies may change over time, so it’s best to enjoy them within the recommended timeframes.
More Brownie Storage Questions
Can I freeze brownies with frosting?
It’s not recommended to freeze brownies covered with frosting, as the frosting can change consistency or become soggy upon thawing.
It’s best to freeze the plain brownies and add the frosting after thawing them.
If you must freeze frosted brownies, wait until the frosting has hardened before wrapping them for freezing.
Can I reheat brownies?
Yes, brownies can be reheated in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. If you desire a crisp top, reheat them in the oven at 350°F or 180°C for 5 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause them to dry out.
How do I know if brownies have gone bad?
Brownies that have gone bad may have a stale or rancid smell or mold growing on them. If the brownies look or smell off, throwing them out is best.