Expiration & Storage Tips
When does orange sherbet expire?
A store-bought orange sherbet can last up to 2-4 months in the freezer if unopened. Once you've cracked the seal, we're looking at an optimal freshness timeframe about 1-2 months. The 'best by' date imprinted on the packaging is really a quality indicator, not safety. So even past this date, the sherbet may still be consumable but might lose its signature flavor and creamy texture. If you decide to freeze homemade sherbet, it tends to keep well up to 1 month.
How do you tell if orange sherbet is bad?
Identifying spoiled sherbet is actually quite clear-cut. Firstly, if it smells off or sour, don’t take any chances. It should always smell just like the fresh fruity, creamy dessert that it is. Check for any discoloration and if it's turned from a bright, vibrant orange to a dull or off-color hue, it's a sign that it's not in its best shape.
But the absolute telltale sign of spoiled sherbet is the presence of ice crystals. While a small amount of icy texture is normal, especially if it's close to the 'best by' date, larger, excessive ice formation means freezer burn – saying it's been in there for too long and has lost its quality.
Tips for storing orange sherbet to extend shelf life
• Always remember to seal your sherbet container tightly after every use, this prevents the air from coming into contact and creating unwanted ice crystals.
• Avoid letting your sherbet sit out of the freezer for too long. Taking it out, using a portion, and then immediately returning it to the freezer can help maintain its ideal consistency.
• For homemade sherbet, using airtight, freezer-friendly containers can help maintain freshness. If it's not a daily treat, portioning it out and freezing in smaller quantities is a great trick to avoid frequently exposing the whole batch to the warm kitchen air.
• Did you know you can prevent freezer burn by placing a piece of plastic wrap right on the surface of the sherbet before you put the lid back on? It acts as a barrier that blocks out air and hence keeps the texture just perfect!