How to Store Brownies

Whether they're made from scratch or came out of a box, everyone loves a good brownie. The combination of brownies' rich flavor, chewy edges, and fudgy texture makes for one of the most perfect desserts on the planet, and they will easily please a group.

But if you've baked for a crowd, you just might have leftovers. Read on to learn the best way to store brownies at room temperature, in the fridge, or stashed away in the freezer.

How to Store Brownies

Store brownies at room temperature by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or by placing them in an airtight container, such as a lidded tray or Tupperware container. This will prevent your brownies from going stale and keep possible contaminants out.

Brownies with perishable toppings or mix-ins like cream cheese should be refrigerated and stored in an airtight container.

Do Brownies Need to Be Refrigerated?

Brownies don't need to be refrigerated, but they'll hold up a few more days if they are. Unless your brownies include more perishable ingredients like fresh fruit or cream cheese frosting, they'll be fine at room temperature as long as they're stored in an airtight container.

Can You Freeze Brownies?

Individual brownies: To freeze brownies, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and place them in an airtight container, such as a zip-top freezer bag. Label the bag accordingly.

Slab of brownies: To freeze a fresh pan of brownies, you'll need to plan ahead and line your baking pan with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough parchment paper so you can lift the brownies after they're finished. Bake the brownies as directed, remove from oven, and let cool completely. Lift the brownies via the parchment paper, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and add a layer of foil. Store wrapped brownies in an airtight, zip-top bag, and label before placing in the freezer.

Defrosting: To defrost frozen brownies, remove them from freezer, and let them defrost on a plate or in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also microwave frozen brownies in 15-second increments at low power.

How Long Do Brownies Last?

Brownies will last 3 to 4 days in an airtight container at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator. Brownies will last up to 3 months in the freezer, but if they stay frozen for a prolonged period of time, their taste and quality will begin to deteriorate.

Unopened boxed brownie mix will last between 12 and 18 months in a cool, dark place.

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