The Best Way To Store Chocolate

This article will explain the best way to store chocolate that will prevent the candy from melting or becoming soft. Chocolate that is not properly stored can also crystallize, causing a dusty gray residue to form on the surface. This leaves the candy with an unpleasant and unappetizing appearance. To insure that the candy remains fresh tasting, the conditions must be just right for proper storage. Listed below are three steps to storing chocolate.

1. If the chocolate has been opened, wrap the candy in aluminum foil before storing.

2. Store the chocolate in a cool, dark place, such as on the shelf of a storage pantry or in a wine cellar. Keep the humidity below 50 percent and the room temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Chocolate can absorb unpleasant odors. Never store chocolate candy near onions or other strong smelling foods.

The amount of storage time differs for each type of chocolate candy. To insure the candy retains its freshness, never leave stored past the recommended amount of time. The desired storage time for filled chocolate candy is two weeks. Solid dark chocolate can be stored for one year and sold milk chocolate for 18 months.