Simple Secrets to Storing Candy

Storing candy at my house is never a problem. It doesn't last that long! 

Even if it is safely tucked away in a dark cupboard or the deep freeze, I can hear it faintly calling my name. Some of you know exactly what I mean! :)

I'll never understand those people who can nibble delicately at a piece of chocolate candy and then stop after eating only one.

I do admire you, though. Such character and self discipline! This page is especially for you so that you can still enjoy the best flavors when you eventually get around to gobbling it up.

Or maybe you are making candy for a special occasion. Of course, in that case you want to be sure that you store it properly to maintain as much freshness as possible for the big day. 

Candy Storage Containers

All candy should be stored in airtight containers or wrappers. This keeps the moisture out of your brittle candy. Of course, it also keeps the moisture in creamy candy.

If you are making candy as a gift, you may want to individually wrap the pieces in waxed paper or plastic wrap. Otherwise, you can simply store the candy between layers of wax paper. 

I love those old tins, which are great for storage or even gift giving. Just be sure they don't have a smell that might permeate your chocolates. That would be a tragedy!

Glass jars are also very pretty for storing candy. Although, in my opinion, I think the candy seems to disappear faster when it can be easily seen!

Plastic containers work as well, but are probably better for non-brittle candy as they tend to absorb more moisture.

Freezing Candy

Candy can be frozen if it is wrapped well and stored in an airtight container. Creamy candy, particularly chocolate, will sometimes lose its fresh look, but the taste will not be affected. 

Allow the candy to be defrosted while it is still sealed in its package. You can defrost it in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

This will help prevent sugar or fat "bloom" that can occur when chocolate develops condensation from the change in temperature. The sugar separates and rises to the surface of the chocolate candy, leaving a white or grey swirl or spots. Fat bloom is a change in the cocoa butter structure causing the yellowish/white streaks when chocolate melts and resets.

The discoloration doesn't affect the taste of the chocolate, but it doesn't look as nice. If you are planning to give the chocolate candy as gifts, you don't want your hard work to be spoiled.

Candy Storage Limits

A general rule of thumb is that the harder the candy the longer it will stay fresh at room temperature.


Chocolate

Plain chocolate candy is the exception. Chocolate will keep indefinitely if it is kept at a reasonably cool temperature (not above 75°). Even if it does get a bit warm and melts and resets, it will lose the fat bloom (yellow/white discoloration) when you melt it again for candy making.


In fact, with chocolate for candy making, it can be melted and re-used many times. Chocolate has a really good shelf life!


Chocolate covered pretzels or nuts can be kept for several weeks to a few months depending on the freshness of the original product and how stable the temperature is for storage. A cool dry place is best and an airtight container will lengthen the shelf life.


Brittles

As for storing candy of other types, brittles will keep for at least a few weeks. I've kept them for longer without trouble. Place the brittle in between layers of waxed paper in an airtight tin or container. Do not refrigerate or freeze if you can avoid it.


Caramels

Caramels will last for a week or more if individually wrapped and stored in a good airtight container. A tin is good here, too, but you can also use a plastic or glass container if you prefer. If you don't want the caramels individually wrapped, place cut pieces between layers of waxed paper or foil.


Truffles

Truffles usually need to be refrigerated and eaten within a week or so. Many truffle recipes call for ingredients that will spoil if left at room temperature for long periods of time. Most recipes will tell you how long that particular recipe will keep as general guideline.

Fudge

If the temperature isn't too hot or humid, fudge can be stored at room temperature in an airtight tin between layers of waxed paper. I like to pre-cut and freeze my fudge in a good container between layers of the wax paper. My favorite recipes keep for a few months that way (but only if I manage to 'forget' they are in there!). 

Of course, none of these rules for storing candy take into account how much self discipline you have. Me? I'm lucky to keep my homemade candy around for more than a couple of days. 

I honestly do try. But like I said earlier, I swear I can hear it calling my name even from the freezer. They just won't leave me alone! Oh well, I guess that means I don't have to bother too much about the details of how to store candy.

Candy making is such fun! 
Don't "spoil" it by failing to follow these 
simple tips for storing candy to keep it fresh.

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