Fondant is incredibly popular in the cake-decorating world. Chefs from all over the globe use the sweet topper to sculpt all sorts of designs into confections.
The reason fondant is so well-liked is that it’s easy to work with. Due to its clay-like consistency, you can shape it however you like.
Plus, with the topper, you can achieve vibrant colors and a variety of textures. On top of that, once you put the fondant in place on a cake, it’ll stay there for an exceptionally long time.
Yet, it can’t last forever. Just like all other edible decorations, they have an expiration date.
So, if you’re wondering whether or not fondant goes bad, I have an answer for you. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about fondant expiration.
I’ll also cover what you can do to ensure the topping lasts as long as possible.
What Are the Components of Fondant?
The components of fondant will affect how long the topping lasts. So, before I jump into the expiration rules, I’ll talk about the ingredients of the icing.
While plenty of people use fondant to decorate cakes, not everyone knows how we make the treat.
Most cooks think the recipe is complex, but in reality, it’s exceptionally simple. All you need is a little corn syrup, vanilla extract, gelatin, confectioner’s sugar, and water.
Mixing these ingredients together forms a type of sugar paste. You can then shape it, roll it out, or even mold the fondant into a variety of designs.
This makes covering large sections of desserts a cakewalk.
Does Fondant Expire?
Now that you know the ingredients, I can move on to the shelf-life of fondant. Simply put, the icing can expire, but it depends on the components.
So, let’s take a look at how long each of the ingredients last.
When it comes to corn syrup, the ingredient has an indefinite shelf-life. It can sit in your pantry for years without going bad.
The same applies to vanilla extract.
Yet, gelatin is much more volatile. Depending on the type you use, the ingredient can expire in as little as 10 days.
How Long Will Fondant Last?
As I mentioned, the ingredients you use in the fondant will affect the expiration date. So, deciding exactly how long it’ll last can be a bit tricky.
Usually, you can keep fondant in the fridge for anywhere from six months to two years. The reason behind the long shelf life is the high-sugar content.
When you add a lot of sugar to a recipe, it can act as a preservative. It’ll inhibit microbial activity, which means it’ll stop bacteria from growing.
Yet, this will depend on the storage temperature and moisture content of the icing.
Plus, if you buy ready-made fondant, chances are it’ll contain artificial preservatives. That means the store-bought versions will typically last much longer.
How Do You Store Fondant?
To ensure your fondant lasts as long as possible, you have to be careful how you store it. There are a few tips that can extend the shelf life of the treat.
1 – Temperature
The first factor you should take into account is the temperature. When not in use, you should keep fondant at room temperature.
Ideally, it has to stay between 68℉ and 77℉.
Besides that, some people choose to freeze the fondant to extend its lifespan. Although, this isn’t the best idea.
If the fondant freezes, then it loses some of its elasticity. This will make shaping the icing later on a challenge.
2 – Container
Fondant is incredibly sensitive to moisture. So, if you want to store it for an extended period, you’ll need to place the topping in a dry, air-tight container.
That way, you’ll avoid any unnecessary condensation. Plus, you won’t end up drying out the fondant.
Not only will that increase the lifespan of fondant, but it’ll also maintain its elasticity.
Can You Use Expired Fondant?
Using expired fondant is never a good idea. For starters, it’ll be much more difficult to work with.
You won’t be able to shape it easily and create intricate designs.
Aside from that, it can be hazardous to your health. Because of that, if you think your fondant is on its last leg, it’s best to run out and buy a fresh batch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering whether or not fondant goes bad, there’s a simple answer. Typically, fondant can last anywhere between six months and two years.
That’s because of the high sugar content. It’ll act as a natural preservative and stop bacteria from growing.
Yet, fondant can still dry out. Finally, it’s not a good idea to use expired fondant to decorate your cakes.
Sarah is the founder of Baking Kneads, LLC, a blog sharing guides, tips, and recipes for those learning how to bake. Growing up as the daughter of a baker, she spent much of her childhood learning the basics in a local bakery.