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We don't usually think a lot about where or how we store cookies. However, did you know that your fridge is not the ideal place to store them? When cookies are stored in the fridge, they can become hard and lose their chewy or crisp texture. The cold, moist environment of the fridge causes the sugar in the cookies to absorb moisture, making them softer and less enjoyable.
On the other hand, the freezer preserves the cookie's texture by keeping it at a consistent, dry temperature. Freezing helps lock in the moisture within the cookies, so when you thaw them, they return to their original state—crispy edges or soft and chewy centres, just like when they were first baked.
Cookies stored in the fridge tend to absorb surrounding odours and flavours from other foods. This can alter the taste of the cookies, especially if they are near strong-smelling items like onions, garlic, or cheese. The freezer, however, prevents this from happening. Cold air in the freezer circulates less frequently than in the fridge, which means your cookies won’t pick up unwanted flavours.
Moreover, freezing cookies helps to preserve the freshness of the ingredients, ensuring that they taste just as good when you’re ready to eat them again.
Freezer can extend their shelf life
One of the main reasons to store cookies in the freezer is to prolong their shelf life. Cookies can last only a week or two in the fridge before they start to lose their quality. In the freezer, though, they can last for months without significant changes in texture or flavour.
This is because freezing slows down the growth of bacteria and mold, preventing spoilage. It’s especially beneficial if you’ve made a large batch of cookies or want to save some for later. By freezing them, you can enjoy your treats for longer periods without compromising quality.
Certain types of cookies, like shortbread or those made with high-fat content, benefit significantly from being stored in the freezer. The cold temperature prevents the fats from turning rancid, preserving the flavour and texture. The fridge’s fluctuating temperature can cause these cookies to spoil more quickly or develop a greasy texture. Freezing, on the other hand, keeps them in a stable environment that ensures they maintain their original texture.
When cookies are stored in the fridge, the moisture from the air can cause them to become stale over time. This is because cold air in the refrigerator tends to draw out moisture, making them dry and hard. The freezer doesn’t have this problem. When cookies are properly sealed and stored in the freezer, they retain their moisture content. Once you’re ready to eat them, they’ll taste as fresh as the day they were made. This is especially important for cookies that are meant to be soft and chewy.
