Oh, no – you got a sudden craving for brownies, but you only have an old box of brownie mix hanging at the back of your pantry. Is it still safe to consume? Yes, it’s safe to consume as long as it is stored properly and isn’t more than six months past the expiration date.
Hi, everyone! My name is Michelle, and I am a self-taught baker with over ten years of experience. While I make a wide variety of goodies, brownies are definitely in my top three. I typically make them from scratch, but if I’m in a pinch, I’ll use a mix – especially if I’m trying to use up items in my pantry!
Do you want to make brownies but only have brownie mix past its prime? Don’t worry – you can still use it. You may need to do a little more work, though, like adding in some extra leavening agents.
Read on to discover how long brownie mix lasts (and how to use expired mix)!
Contents
How Long Does Brownie Mix Last?
Technically, if brownie mix is stored correctly and there are no signs of spoilage, brownie mix can last a year or more beyond the “best by” date listed on the packaging.
That doesn’t necessarily mean you should use it, though.
I don’t recommend using brownie mix beyond six months after the best-by date. At this point, the brownies mix’s quality will deteriorate, which may lead to flat or flavorless brownies. And nobody wants that outcome.
With that said, brownie mix can last years, but I suggest using it within six months after the best-by date for the highest quality.
How to Use Expired Brownie Mix
If your brownie mix is expired by a couple of weeks or months, you don’t need to do anything special. Follow the directions on the packaging and enjoy your delicious brownies in no time.
However, if your brownie mix is more than three months old, you will have to be a bit more careful.
After the three-month mark, the leavening agent in the brownie mix starts to go bad. Add ¼ teaspoon of baking powder for every two cups of brownie mix to remedy this issue. Your brownies should come out perfectly!
Does Brownie Mix Go Bad?
Brownie mixes typically don’t go “bad.” That’s because the ingredients in the brownie mix – flour, sugar, cocoa powder, etc. – have a very long shelf life. You’re unlikely to see your brownie mix with any signs of spoilage, especially if it’s only a few months beyond the best-by date.
However, that doesn’t mean it’s not possible. If your brownie mix is not stored correctly, it can go bad – especially if it’s been exposed to extreme temperature, too much sunlight, or moisture.
Signs of Spoiled Brownie Mix
As I mentioned previously, brownie mix doesn’t tend to go “bad.” Yet, it’s still a possibility. So, before you start whipping up a batch of brownies using your expired brownie mix, double-check for signs of spoilage, including:
1. Odd Odor
You should always trust your nose – even when it comes to smelling brownie mix for signs of spoilage.
Brownie mix typically has a desirably sweet flavor that makes your mouth water. If it smells a little off, I suggest tossing the mixture and buying a new one. (Don’t forget to use these tips to make the boxed brownie mix taste better!)
2. Discoloration
Brownie mix is, well, brown. If you look at the brownie mix and it’s sporting multiple other colors, it’s time to chuck it into the trash can.
3. Mold
Does your brownie mix have some fuzzy friends hanging around inside? Then you need to get rid of it ASAP. (In case you’re wondering, it’s not OK to remove the moldy parts and use the rest of the brownie mix.)
4. Weird Taste
Last but not least, give the brownie mix a taste test. While brownie mix isn’t exactly the tastiest thing in the world, it’s definitely not off-putting or disgusting. So, if you give it a taste and your face twists up as a result of the flavor, I don’t recommend using it.
How to Store Brownie Mix
The key to brownie mix longevity is proper storage. Luckily, storing brownie mix is a cinch. There are only three rules to follow:
1. Keep it in the Original Packaging
Whether it came in a box, bag, or otherwise, the best thing to do is keep the brownie mix in its original packaging. The packaging was specifically designed to keep the brownie mix safe and sound – and as the old saying goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
If your brownie mix’s packaging has been compromised, you’ll need to move it. Transfer the brownie mix into an airtight container or resealable freezer bag. Ensure it is sealed tight before placing it in your pantry.
2. Store in a Cool Place
Sunlight is the grim reaper for most mixes, including brownie mix. That said, you want to keep your brownie mix as far away from light as possible. The best options are in the back of your pantry or kitchen cabinet.
3. Keep Away from Moisture
Another enemy of brownie mix is moisture. If brownie mix comes in contact with moisture, it will spoil quickly. With that in mind, always place your brownie mix in an area where you know it won’t come in contact with any type of moisture.
FAQs
When stored properly, brownie mix has pretty impressive longevity, eh? While I’m sure you can’t wait to go and bake some brownies using your fave brownie mix, I recommend checking out these interesting, frequently asked questions before taking off.
Can I use a 3-year-old brownie mix?
Brownie mix can last for a year or more beyond the best-by date. I think three years is pushing it, though. While it might be “safe” to consume, the mix will have lost most of its quality by this time, leaving you with sub-par brownies. Buy a new mix or make some brownies from scratch!
Can you eat expired Betty Crocker brownie mix?
As long as it’s just a few months beyond the best-by date, it’s OK to make an expired Betty Crocker brownie mix. Keep in mind that the longer you wait to use the brownie mix, the more the quality will decline. You will need to add a leavening agent that is past the six-month mark.
Can sugar expire?
Sugar doesn’t ever truly “expire.” For the best quality, it’s recommended to use it within two years after opening. The longevity of sugar is just one of the reasons why brownie mix lasts as long as it does.
Brownie Mix Can Last For Months if Not Years!
Brownie mix can easily last for months – if not years – beyond the best-by date when properly stored. Always check for signs of spoilage, though, as it is possible (although unlikely) for brownie mix to go bad. If it’s six months or more past the best-by date, add ¼ teaspoon of baking powder per every two cups of brownie mix.
Have you ever used an expired brownie mix? Do you have anything to add to this article? Share in the comment section!
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