All About Marshmallows
Your complete guide to marshmallows - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Marshmallows Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for marshmallows in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
unopened pantry6-12 months past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Significant hardening, discoloration (yellowing or dark spots), presence of mold (very rare unless packaging is compromised), or an off-odor.
How to Check
Visually inspect the packaging for any tears or damage. Through the packaging, gently squeeze to check for softness; they should feel pliable, not rock hard. If the packaging is compromised, a quick sniff test can detect any musty or sour smells.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong-smelling foods. High humidity can cause them to become sticky even in unopened packaging.
opened pantry2-4 weeks for best quality; safe for longer but texture degrades significantly
Signs of Spoilage
Significant hardening and drying out, excessive stickiness (due to moisture absorption from humidity), clumping together, discoloration, visible mold growth, or a sour/musty odor.
How to Check
Visually inspect for any mold, unusual colors, or excessive wetness/stickiness. Touch the marshmallows; they should still have some give and not be rock-hard. Perform a smell test; a neutral, sweet smell is good, while any sour, musty, or chemical odor indicates spoilage. If they pass these, a small taste test can confirm palatability; stale marshmallows will taste bland or off-textured.
Storage Tips
To maximize freshness, transfer opened marshmallows to an airtight container (e.g., a zip-top bag with air removed, or a hard-sided container) immediately after opening. This prevents them from drying out or absorbing moisture and odors from the air. Avoid storing in humid environments.
freezer6-12 months for optimal quality
Signs of Spoilage
While marshmallows won't 'spoil' in the freezer in terms of safety, quality can degrade. Signs include significant freezer burn (dry, shriveled spots, excessive ice crystals), or absorption of freezer odors.
How to Check
Visually inspect for freezer burn. After thawing, check the texture (should still be soft and pliable) and smell (should be neutral and sweet, not like other freezer items).
Storage Tips
For best results, place marshmallows in an airtight, freezer-safe bag or container before freezing to prevent freezer burn and absorption of other food odors. They can be used directly from frozen in some applications (like hot chocolate) or thawed at room temperature for others. Freezing helps maintain their soft texture for an extended period.