There's a good probability that you can find all the ingredients for baking if you go into anyone's cupboard. But how long have they been sitting there on that shelf? It's crucial to understand how to keep those basic components fresh so you can use them for as long as possible whether you're a seasoned baker or just occasionally have a taste for handmade chocolate chip cookies.
Let's face it, the majority of people purchase a bag of flour or a can of baking soda, use it over the course of several years, and then forget about it. In actuality, using expired baking ingredients can significantly change the flavour and consistency of your home-baked treats. There are a few things to watch out for to determine whether these ingredients need to be replaced or may still be used to make a variety of delectable baked products before you clear your cupboard of them.
Flour Goes Bad Or No?
Ever notice how flour is typically packaged in a big paper bag? Even though flour is regarded as non-perishable, if it is kept in that bag for too long, it will inevitably go bad. In actuality, improper storage will result in flour remaining unusable for only approximately three months. Any store-bought flour should be transferred to an airtight container as soon as it is opened for this reason. You can extend the shelf life of the flour by up to two years by transferring it to a special food storage container. Alternative flours, such oat or almond flour, degrade far more quickly than all-purpose white flour, so make sure you store them in an airtight container as well. Almond flour has a storage life of roughly one year if properly maintained.
Does Sugar Go Bad Or Not?
Granulated white sugar, in contrast to flour, really has an endless shelf life, especially when kept in a dry, dark location. Sugar functions as a potent preservative, which explains why foods like jelly and peanut butter can last for such a long time. Brown sugar, on the other hand, is a little unique since it hardens when exposed to air. Because of this, brown sugar left in its original package hardens into a brick. Use your brown sugar within two years of storing it in an airtight container to get the most taste and freshness out of it. Brown sugar can also be kept in the freezer, but it will need to thaw out for a few hours before use.
Baking Soda Goes Bad Or Not?
Beyond baking, there are a lot of domestic uses for baking soda. It can be used to remove stains from garments, thoroughly clean linens, or freshen up your refrigerator. Baking soda has a relatively short shelf life despite its many uses. In actuality, the shelf life of baking soda after opening is only around six months. Put your baking soda in any kind of sealed container and keep it in the pantry or cabinet to slightly increase the shelf life. Put a tablespoon of baking soda in a bowl with some vinegar to see if it's still good. It's still fresh and okay to use if it fizzes.
Salt Goes Bad Or Not?
Salts are not created equally. While iodized or flavoured salt may eventually go bad because it contains other substances, normal salt will last a lifetime. Even if the majority of salts can keep their freshness for years, you might wish to spend money on a wooden salt cellar or another kind of container to preserve it.
Vanilla Extract Goes Bad Or Not?
Like salt, pure vanilla extract has an endless shelf life and can significantly improve a dish. An unsealed bottle of vanilla extract should last for years if kept in a cool, dry, and dark location, but it's always a good idea to smell it before using it in recipes or baked goods. You should purchase a new bottle of vanilla extract if the old one doesn't still have that distinctive, delicious aroma.