Expiration & Storage Tips
When does chocolate chip cookie dough expire?
Ready-made chocolate chip cookie dough usually has an expiration date printed on the packaging and will last unopened until this printed date, usually for several weeks. Once opened, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you made your cookie dough at home, it should be fine for up to 5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, if you freeze your cookie dough, it can last for up to 3 months.
How do you tell if chocolate chip cookie dough is bad?
If your chocolate chip cookie dough has gone bad, the most noticeable indicator is a change in its smell. Bad dough often emits a sour, rotten smell that's hard to miss. Additionally, if you notice mold or any unusual discoloration, such as a dark or green hue, it's a sure sign that your dough has gone bad. The texture may also change, becoming overly sticky or dry.
Tips for storing chocolate chip cookie dough to extend shelf life
• Always store your opened dough in an airtight container to keep it fresh for longer.
• When freezing dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, preferably in individual portions for ease of use.
• Thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator overnight before use. For a faster approach, you could leave it at room temperature but never in the microwave as this can partially cook the dough.
• When storing in the refrigerator, keep the dough as far away from the fridge door as possible as the temperature there fluctuates the most.
• If you’re planning to store homemade dough for more than a week, consider freezing it immediately after mixing to preserve its freshness.