Hershey Kisses are a beloved chocolate candy treat enjoyed by many. Their distinctive conical shape wrapped in aluminum foil makes them perfect for giving as gifts or adding to baked goods. With their rich chocolate flavor, Hershey Kisses bring a pop of sweetness to any occasion.
However, like most foods, Hershey Kisses don’t last forever. So can you freeze Hershey Kisses to extend their shelf life? Let’s take a closer look at how freezing affects Hershey Kisses and whether it’s recommended for preserving this popular candy.
Do Hershey Kisses Expire?
Yes, like most foods, Hershey Kisses do eventually expire. According to Hershey’s, an unopened package of Hershey Kisses has a shelf life of approximately 12 months when stored properly.
Once opened, the shelf life is reduced. An opened package of Hershey Kisses will stay fresh for about 6-8 weeks at room temperature storage.
So while Hershey Kisses can last up to a year factory sealed, their shelf life dwindles rapidly after opening the package. This shorter shelf life increases the appeal of extending the lifespan of Hershey Kisses through freezing.
Can You Freeze Hershey Kisses?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Hershey Kisses. Freezing is an effective way to significantly extend the shelf life of Hershey Kisses beyond the standard 6-8 weeks after opening.
When frozen properly, Hershey Kisses can last 6-12 months in the freezer without a noticeable deterioration in quality or taste. The chocolate will remain intact and the candy will still taste delicious after freezing.
Steps for Freezing Hershey Kisses
Follow these simple steps for freezing Hershey Kisses:
- Ensure the Kisses are unopened in their original packaging or placed in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container if opened.
- Remove as much excess air as possible if placing in a freezer bag or container.
- Label the package with the quantity and date of freezing.
- Place the Hershey Kisses flat in a single layer on a freezer shelf rather than standing up to prevent them from losing their shape.
- Freeze at 0°F or colder for best quality.
Storage Times for Frozen Hershey Kisses
| Storage Container | Storage Life in Freezer |
|---|---|
| Factory Sealed Package | 6-12 Months |
| Freezer Bag or Airtight Container | 3-6 Months |
As shown, unopened packages of Hershey Kisses can be kept longer in the freezer than Kisses placed in bags or containers. But both methods effectively extend the shelf life beyond what is possible through room temperature storage.
Thawing and Serving Frozen Hershey Kisses
Once frozen, you’ll need to thaw Hershey Kisses properly before enjoying them. There are a few methods for safely thawing frozen Kisses:
Refrigerator Thawing
For best results, thaw frozen Hershey Kisses slowly in the refrigerator. Place the sealed package of frozen Kisses on a fridge shelf and allow them to come to temperature over 12-24 hours. The gradual thawing helps preserve texture and flavor.
Room Temperature Thawing
You can also leave frozen Kisses sealed at room temperature for 1-2 hours until thawed. Leave them wrapped during this time to prevent moisture loss.
Low Power Microwave
For quick thawing, microwave frozen Kisses at 20% power for short bursts of 15 seconds. Rotate the package and continue microwaving until thawed. Take care not to melt the chocolate.
Avoid thawing methods like running under hot water or at high microwave power. High heat can cause the Kisses to melt or scorch.
Once thawed, Hershey Kisses previously frozen will look and taste like new again. Enjoy them within a few days for maximum freshness.
Quality Changes from Freezing Hershey Kisses
Freezing is safe for Hershey Kisses. However, some minor quality changes can occur compared to fresh Kisses:
- Slightly harder or drier texture
- Loss of some smoothness and creaminess
- Mildly altered taste
- More susceptibility to bloom formation (whitish coating)
- Increased chances of weeping oil
Despite small textural and flavor changes, frozen Kisses are still tasty. Proper freezing and thawing methods minimize quality loss.
Should You Freeze Unopened Packages of Hershey Kisses?
Freezing unopened packages of Hershey Kisses can extend the 12 months shelf life. However, it may not be necessary if storing at room temperature.
If you buy Hershey Kisses well ahead of planned use or have concerns about storage conditions, freezing unopened packages can be beneficial. But proper room temperature storage will also maintain quality.
Conclusion
Freezing is an excellent way to prolong the shelf life of both opened and unopened packages of Hershey Kisses. While some changes in texture and flavor can occur after freezing, Kisses remain delicious and safe to eat.
Follow proper freezing, storage, and thawing methods to get the most out of frozen Hershey Kisses. With freezer storage, you can enjoy the chocolatey goodness of Kisses for up to 12 months after purchase.