One to two extra years is a pretty safe bet, but that’s just an estimate. Gingerbread cookies rely on cocoa for their color After Expiration DateĬocoa powder usually keeps well beyond the printed date, but unfortunately, it’s impossible to say exactly how long it will retain quality. In other words, cocoa powder has a pretty long shelf life, and it doesn’t go bad easily if you do the bare minimum of sealing the container or bag and placing it in a decent spot. If not, the powder might absorb moisture from the environment, or its flavor might dissipate, shortening its shelf life. Opening the container doesn’t affect the storage time much if you store the powder in a cool and dry place sealed tightly. Sifting breaks up small clumps How Long Does Cocoa Powder Last?Ĭocoa powder has a shelf life of two to four years and typically retains quality for a few years beyond the printed date. As I mentioned earlier, if it’s geriatric cocoa, its taste might be a bit weaker, but it will be safe to use nonetheless. Or you can sift them, which is a common step in recipes for baked goods.įinally, if there aren’t any visible changes to the powder and it smells just fine, you can safely use it. Small clumps are perfectly fine, and you can easily break them up using a fork. If that’s the case, the powder is still safe to use but basically useless in cooking. Cocoa powder is a crucial ingredient in brownies How to Tell if Cocoa Powder Is Bad?ĭiscard your cocoa powder if it has developed an off smell, is infested by pantry bugs, or has any wet clumps or mold in the package.ĭo the same if it has lost its signature smell or doesn’t taste like much. In some cases, tossing it is the only option. Of course, it’s not like cocoa powder cannot go bad. If the smell and taste are still there, your fudge and chocolate frosting will turn out perfectly fine. So before you toss your expired cocoa powder, give it a good whiff, rub a pinch between your fingers, and taste it. That said, cocoa powder should still make delicious brownies, cakes, and hot chocolate even after a couple of years past the printed date. Image used under Creative Commons from jamieanne Does Cocoa Powder Go Bad?Ĭocoa powder doesn’t really go bad if stored properly, but it slowly loses its chocolatey flavor over time. If that sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. Those are the questions that are going through your head right now, and you need answers. You gathered the ingredients to make sure you have everything that’s needed before you start, and bam, cocoa powder is past its date.ĭoes cocoa powder go bad? Can that powder make anyone sick?
You’re preparing to bake your favorite chocolate cake. Learn whether cocoa powder ever goes bad and how long it lasts. Here’s all you need to know about the shelf life and expiration of cocoa powder.
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