How to Store Chocolate

From chocolate melting prevention to avoiding chocolate bloom, we’re serving up our expert tips on how to store chocolate. After all, just like a wine connoisseur, chocolate lovers should always protect their prized candy stash!

From the Experts: See’s Candies Chocolate Storage Tips

• Keep It Cool!
  The best way to store See’s chocolate is in a cool, dry and dark place. The pantry is the perfect spot. Just avoid heat and moisture, and your chocolate will be ready to devour on command.

• What Is Chocolate Bloom?
  Have you ever seen light gray or white, chalky streaks on chocolate? That discoloration is called chocolate bloom, which occurs when the cocoa butter separates and crystallizes on the surface.
  
  Proper chocolate storage is key, because exposure to heat and moisture can lead to the chocolate bloom effect, causing the cocoa solids to rise to the surface. It’s safe to eat, but it won’t taste or look as good. To skip this phenomenon, avoid temperature fluctuations and keep chocolate cool, dry and safe (hiding spots are not a bad idea!), so it stays delectable even longer.

• Refrigerate if You Must, But Contain Your Excitement!
  Chocolate melting prevention is important, so if your house is particularly hot one day, you can put your favorite See’s milk chocolate (or dark chocolates) in the fridge in a pinch. (Pantry is a better option, but only if the chocolate doesn’t get too hot!) Be sure to wrap the chocolate and place in an airtight container before storing inside the refrigerator. Otherwise, it can be exposed to the refrigerator’s humidity and become discolored, as a result of chocolate bloom. The container will also prevent mingling food smells and flavors from altering your chocolate. Once you remove it, let the chocolate return to room temperature before eating and it’ll taste delicious once again. If you follow this process, your chocolate can last up to six months.

• Freezing Chocolate Must Be Done Carefully!
  The bottom line: freezing chocolate should be handled with care. If you’re going on a long vacation and want to keep your treats fresh, go ahead. Just don’t “shock” the chocolate by taking it out of the freezer and thawing it immediately. Instead, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator to ease into the process, which prevents chocolate bloom. Let the candy return to room temperature on the counter before happily polishing it off.

See’s Candies Chocolate Storage Tips for On-the-Go Snacking

Keep it fresh! Because our candy is made without preservatives, it’s best to consume it about 3 - 4 weeks after purchase. And if you’re on the road? Our Candy Keeper Tote is car-friendly and great for chocolate melting prevention. Simply store your treats and add ice packs. Once you get to your destination, make your chocolate feel more at home by placing it in a cool, dry storage area at room temperature.

If you’re worried about messy melting and chocolate bloom, check out our warm weather friendly treats, like our Lollypops, Peanut Brittle and more.

More questions? Check out our FAQs page

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