How Long Does Cookie Mix Last After Expiration Date

So you’re ready to make a fresh batch of cookies. Yum! But the expiration date is, well, not so great. If your cookie dough mix is past expiration, can you still use it? The answer is sometimes. It depends on the type of cookie dough and how it’s stored.

Hey! My name is Michelle, and I always have a batch of cookie mix hanging around somewhere. While I love homemade cookie dough, I will sometimes grab something off the shelf if I’m in a pinch. That said, with my experience, I know all too well about using cookie mix past expiration.

If you’re curious whether or not your cookie mix is still good to go, you’re in luck. While this is a somewhat complicated answer, I will be making it easy on you. So keep reading if you want to know all about how long cookie mix lasts after expiration or whether or not you can use expired cookie mix.

Get ready for some tasty cookies, bakers!

How Long Does Cookie Mix Last After Expiration Date?

The best answer is this – it depends on the type of cookie dough and how it’s stored. With that said, let’s take a closer look at the different types of cookie dough and how they should be stored to extend longevity.

One thing to note before we dive in – most cookie mixes will have a “best by” date as opposed to an expiration date. Therefore, you won’t be able to rely on the packaging to know when your cookie mix has really gone bad.

Frozen Cookie Dough (Not Name Brand)

Working with regular ole cookie dough? You know, not the name-brand type but the cheaper kind you’ll find in the freezer section? While this stuff can certainly be just as good as name-brand frozen cookie dough, you’re not here today to hear a sales pitch.

Typical frozen cookie dough can last:

• Up to two weeks past the best-by date in the fridge, or
• Up to twelve months in the freezer.

Just make sure that the cookie dough is properly sealed in an airtight container. When placed in the freezer, it should find a cozy spot in a darker section of the freezer.

Name Brand Cookie Dough

Pillsbury, anyone? Going with a name-brand cookie dough means you will have a much easier time achieving cookie perfection. However, their lifespan is a bit different from typical frozen cookie dough. Let’s take a look.

• Name-brand cookie doughs last up to two weeks in the fridge, or
• Up to nine months in the freezer.

While the fridge longevity is about the same, name-brand cookie doughs, simply don’t have the extended lifespan as frozen options. They can be used up to nine months past the use-by date, but it’s best to use this type of mix sooner than later.

Homemade Cookie Dough

Let me be honest for a moment. I’ll start by saying I seldom have homemade cookie mix I want to store. When I’m making a fresh batch of cookies, I want them, well, fresh. However, if I have some extras, I might save them for later. Here’s how long it will last.

• Homemade mix can last up to five days in the fridge, or
• Up to twelve months in the freezer.

When freezing homemade cookie dough, it is extremely important to make sure that it is wrapped tightly. Otherwise, the longevity will diminish incredibly.

Dry Cookie Mix

If you are storing dry cookie mix, you will get a lot longer lifespan. With dry cookie mix, you can store it at room temperature for up to 18 months. After the package is opened, it’s important to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag to lock freshness in.

FAQs

Have a couple of questions about cookie mix lifespan? I’ve got answers! 

Can you use an expired cookie mix?

Yup! You can definitely use an expired cookie mix. Most cookie doughs can last for months beyond their “best if used by date” as long as it is stored properly.

CAN expired cookie dough make you sick?

Sure, expired cookie dough can make you sick, but only if it’s not stored properly and it is far beyond the best-by date. For example, leaving refrigerated cookie mix on the counter for two weeks and attempting to eat it might not be such a grand idea.

How long can you keep raw cookie dough in the fridge?

You should use raw cookie dough anywhere from two to five days from when it was created if it’s been stored in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Cookie mix has a fairly impressive lifespan, as long as it is stored the right way. You can get the most longevity out of freezer cookie dough or dry cookie mix, though as they tend to last up to 12 months and beyond.

Have you ever baked expired cookie dough? How did it taste? Share with us!

I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.