Chocolate is a treat that many of us enjoy, whether it's made in Michigan pecan turtles, a piece of chocolate seafoam, or a rich truffle or sea salt caramel. To keep these sweets tasting their best, it’s important to store them properly. Improper storage can affect texture and flavor, so here are some simple tips on how to store chocolate to keep it fresh and delicious.
1. Avoid Refrigeration, But Freezing Is Okay (With Caution)
Refrigeration is generally not recommended for chocolate, whether you’re storing chocolate seafoam, truffles, or sea salt caramels. Cold temperatures can cause condensation to form on the surface, leading to sugar bloom (that white, powdery film) and a change in texture. Plus, refrigerators are often too humid, which can cause your chocolates to become sticky or grainy.
However, freezing chocolate is a good option if you need to store it for a longer period, such as keeping a stash of made in Michigan pecan turtles until you're ready to indulge. If you choose to freeze your chocolate, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to protect it from moisture. When you're ready to enjoy it, let the chocolate come to room temperature slowly before unwrapping it to avoid condensation from forming on the surface.
2. Keep Chocolate in a Cool, Dry Place
The best place to store chocolate—whether it's pecan turtles, chocolate seafoam, or any other chocolate treat—is in a cool, dry place. Aim to store your chocolates at a temperature range of 60°F to 70°F (15°C - 21°C). A pantry or cupboard works perfectly. Make sure to avoid storing chocolate near direct sunlight or heat sources like stoves and ovens, as heat can cause the chocolate to melt and lose its smooth texture.
3. Store in an Airtight Container
Chocolate is sensitive to odors and can easily absorb surrounding smells, which is especially important when storing rich treats like sea salt caramels or truffles. To keep your chocolate tasting as fresh and flavorful as possible, store it in an airtight container or resealable bag. This not only prevents the absorption of odors but also keeps moisture from damaging the chocolate’s smooth texture.
4. Keep it in the Original Packaging (If Possible)
If you have made in Michigan pecan turtles or another delicious chocolate creation that’s still in its original packaging, it’s best to leave it sealed. The packaging is designed to preserve the chocolate’s freshness and protect it from moisture and odors. If you’ve already opened the packaging, wrap the chocolate back up in foil, plastic wrap, or store it in an airtight container to keep it in optimal condition.
5. Avoid Storing Near Strong Odors
Chocolates like truffles, sea salt caramels, and chocolate seafoam can easily absorb the scents of nearby foods, which can alter their flavor. To protect your chocolates from picking up unwanted odors, store them in an area away from strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, or spices.
6. Enjoy Within 90 Days
For the best experience, we recommend enjoying your chocolates within 90 days after purchase. While chocolate can last longer, it’s at its freshest and most flavorful within this time frame. After 90 days, the chocolate might start to lose some of its rich flavor and smooth texture.
Properly storing chocolate helps preserve its texture and flavor, whether you're savoring made in Michigan pecan turtles or enjoying a bite of chocolate seafoam. By keeping it cool, dry, and sealed, you’ll ensure that your chocolates stay fresh and enjoyable.
