One of my all-time favorite sweets has to be fudge. The texture is fantastic, and I like the decadent tastes. Although I adore traditional chocolate fudge, I’ve also loved trying out other tastes such as mint chocolate chip and rocky road. Very delicious.

So enough about my fudge fixation. You’ve come to find out if fudge has to be refrigerated and how long it will keep. And I have the solutions for you. Fudge does not need to be refrigerated and may be stored for two to three months.

Hello! My name is Shea, and fudge is my guilty pleasure. And, to be honest, I should cook it more often. It’s our family’s Christmas dessert, and we only prepare it once a year. We make it in huge amounts, so I’ve had to figure out how long it lasts.

Are you ready to learn all there is to know about fudge?

Does Fudge Need to be Refrigerated?

Unless you’re preparing an out-of-this-world fudge recipe with a slew of ingredients and mix-ins, the essential components for fudge are sugar, milk, and butter. Because of these perishable components, most people believe that fudge must be refrigerated.

But they’d be mistaken.

Interestingly, fudge does not need refrigeration. It may be kept at room temperature for up to two weeks (with appropriate storage).

In fact, it is really preferable to preserve fudge at room temperature rather than in the refrigerator. That’s because the fridge may be rather drying, which can rapidly destroy the texture of your fudge.

How Long Does Fudge Last?

Fudge may be stored for two weeks to three months, depending on the technique employed. For example, room temperature will provide the shortest shelf life, but freezing would provide the longest shelf life. Here’s how it works.

Keep in mind that storage is essential for meeting these storage deadlines.

How to Store Fudge

Storage conditions have a significant impact on how long your fudge will *actually* last. Here’s a simple guide on storing fudge at room temperature, in the refrigerator, and in the freezer.

At Room Temp

Keep your fudge at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain its creamy smooth consistency. If you need to stack the fudge to fit your container, use a piece of plastic wrap in between layers to prevent them from accidently molding together.

In the Fridge

I don’t recommend keeping fudge in the fridge unless absolutely necessary. That’s because the fridge is so dry. You will need to take additional precautions to prevent your fudge from drying out in your refrigerator. This is how.

Step 1: Cover the fudge in one or two layers of plastic wrap securely.

Step 2: Keep in an airtight container.

Step 3: Place in the back of the refrigerator, away from any strong-smelling foods or components.

In the Freezer

If you want to keep your fudge fresh for up to three months, store it in the freezer. It’s rather straightforward, and you’ll follow the same exact instructions as in the fridge portion.

Therefore, I suggest starting with a single layer of plastic wrap and then adding another layer of aluminum foil. This will provide a good seal, which will avoid drying and freezer burn, rendering your fudge unusable.

How To Tell if Fudge Has Gone Bad

Just because fudge can be stored well for two to three months does not ensure it will. Numerous factors may affect the lifetime of your fudge, from air and moisture exposure to add-ins. Having said that, it is vital to recognize the indicators of ruined fudge.

Change in Texture

If you see any sliminess on your fudge, it’s best to throw it out.

The same may be said about rock-hard fudge. You may soften or melt it in the microwave and use it as a drizzle on top of your ice cream. But if it’s too difficult or you don’t want to bother with reusing it, create a new batch. The taste will have diminished by this stage regardless.

Odd Odor

Is your fudge smelling more like a garbage disposal than a beautiful slab of chocolate goodness? Remove it immediately. Who wants to eat something that stinks? Certainly not me!

Mold

Mold may develop in fudge, particularly if you add moldy ingredients like fruit. Toss your fudge if you observe any discoloration or fuzziness. Although old fudge is unlikely to get you ill, mold may.

FAQs

Fudge has a somewhat long shelf life, lasting two to three months if properly stored. If you want to learn more about fudge, here are some commonly asked questions that people like you have recently asked!

Can you eat unrefrigerated fudge?

You certainly can! Fudge may be consumed at room temperature as long as it is kept correctly (in an airtight container) and there are no symptoms of deterioration (strange odor, discolouration, or change in texture). It is safe to eat for up to two weeks!

Why does fudge not need to be refrigerated?

Fudge contains perishable components such as butter and milk. So, how does it stay at room temperature? It’s all because of the sugar. The high sugar levels will prevent germs from growing, which would otherwise contaminate your dairy products. Thank you, sugar!

Do you have to refrigerate fudge made with evaporated milk?

You don’t have to refrigerate your fudge if you make it using evaporated milk. Employ the same techniques of storing as described above.

Final Words

Fudge may be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, in the fridge for three weeks, or in the freezer for three months. Adequate storage is essential, and always inspect for symptoms of rotting before eating.

Do you have any thoughts on this subject?