How Long Does Chocolate Covered Bacon Last? Your Guide to Storing this Sweet and Savory Treat

Chocolate covered bacon has become an increasingly popular sweet and savory snack in recent years. The combination of the rich, velvety chocolate and the smoky salty bacon is a match made in heaven for many bacon and chocolate lovers. But because it’s such an unusual pairing, you may be wondering – how long does chocolate covered bacon actually last after it’s made?

This whole guide will tell you everything you need to know about how to store chocolate-covered bacon so that it lasts as long as possible. You’ll learn:

• The science behind chocolate covered bacon’s shelf life
• Factors that affect how long it lasts
• Proper storage methods
• How chocolate and bacon affect shelf life
• How to tell if it’s gone bad
• Tips for extending its freshness
• Best practices for serving and enjoying chocolate bacon

Let’s get started!

The Science Behind Chocolate Covered Bacon’s Shelf Life

Before you can figure out how long chocolate-covered bacon will last, you should look at how long bacon and chocolate last on their own.

Uncooked bacon typically lasts 1-2 weeks in the fridge. The high fat content means it’s prone to going rancid quickly. Chocolate can last 1-2 years stored in a cool, dry place. The cocoa solids and fats provide preservation.

When combined, the shelf life短ens closer to the length of bacon alone. The chocolate does help preserve the bacon somewhat by creating a protective barrier. But moisture from the bacon can cause the chocolate to bloom and seize up over time.

So while chocolate provides some protection bacon’s perishability means chocolate covered bacon generally has a shorter total shelf life of around 1-2 weeks. Proper storage is key for maximizing freshness.

Factors That Affect Chocolate Covered Bacon’s Longevity

There are a few key factors that determine how long your chocolate covered bacon will last:

Ingredient Freshness

• Bacon – Fresher bacon will last longer. Bacon nearing its expiration date will shorten shelf life.

• Chocolate – Higher quality dark chocolate lasts longer than milk or white due to higher cocoa content Freshness matters too

Storage Conditions

• Air exposure – Air can cause bacon to oxidize and chocolate to bloom. Minimize air exposure.

• Temperature – Store in the fridge. Room temp will lead to faster spoilage.

• Moisture – Bacon’s moisture impacts the chocolate over time. Use airtight packaging.

• Light – Light can degrade chocolate’s quality. Store in an opaque container.

By optimizing these conditions, you can maximize how long your chocolate bacon stays fresh.

Proper Storage Methods for Chocolate Covered Bacon

To get the most out of your chocolate covered bacon, use these storage methods:

• Store in an airtight container – This prevents air exposure to keep bacon from oxidizing and chocolate from blooming. Airtight jars, food storage containers, or resealable bags work well.

• Refrigerate – Fridge temps between 35°F-40°F prolong shelf life. Store bacon chocolate in the back, away from the door.

• Use wax or parchment paper – Separate layers with non-stick paper to prevent sticking and minimize moisture transfer.

• Avoid temperature fluctuations – Don’t let it sit out at room temp then re-refrigerate. Consistent cold temps are best.

• Freeze for longer storage – Freezing allows storage for 2-3 months. Use airtight packaging and thaw overnight in the fridge before eating.

Follow these tips, and your chocolate covered bacon can stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks refrigerated, or 2-3 months frozen.

Does Chocolate or Bacon Affect Shelf Life More?

When chocolate covered bacon goes bad, which ingredient tends to be the culprit – the chocolate or the bacon?

Overall, bacon’s shorter shelf life compared to chocolate means it has a greater impact on the total shelf life. The perishable fat in bacon goes rancid faster.

However, chocolate does deteriorate over time too. The cocoa butter can go rancid, and the sugars can crystallize. Low quality chocolate will break down faster.

So for maximum freshness, you want high quality bacon and chocolate. Properly stored, the chocolate helps prolong the bacon’s shelf life slightly while the bacon remains the more perishable ingredient.

How Can You Tell if Chocolate Covered Bacon Has Gone Bad?

Watch for these signs that your chocolate covered bacon has spoiled and needs to be tossed:

• Slimy texture – Bacon and chocolate both get slippery and slimy when bacteria grows

• Off odors – Rancid bacon and chocolate give off sour, unpleasant smells

• Color changes – Bacon may turn grey; chocolate can get chalky and white due to bloom

• Mold growth – Fuzzy green or white mold on the chocolate

• Taste – Rancid bacon tastes unpleasantly sour and bitter

Your senses can detect spoiled chocolate bacon long before it’s safe to eat. If in doubt, throw it out. Don’t risk getting sick from eating it!

Tips to Extend the Freshness of Chocolate Covered Bacon

To help your chocolate bacon last as long as possible, keep these tips in mind:

• Use high quality ingredients – Better bacon and chocolate lasts longer

• Portion into smaller servings right away – Less air exposure once opened

• Store most in fridge, keep out just a few servings – Minimizes temperature changes

• Check regularly for signs of spoilage – Catch it before it goes bad

• Wrap tightly in extra plastic wrap if storing over 1 week – Adds extra barrier against air

• Switch containers 1x/week – Gets rid of condensation build up

• Consider extra preservatives – Rosemary extract helps inhibit bacteria growth

With proper handling and storage, you can enjoy your chocolate covered bacon for 1-3 weeks refrigerated.

Best Practices for Serving and Eating Chocolate Bacon

Once you’ve made your own chocolate covered bacon, be sure to follow these serving tips:

• Allow it to come up to room temperature before eating – this improves the texture and taste.

• Consider pairing it with complementary flavors – the salty-sweet bacon complements caramel, coffee, or maple flavors nicely.

• Offer creative dipping sauces – chocolate, caramel, maple syrup, and nut butters pair deliciously.

• Serve on dessert pizza or cupcakes – it makes a fun sweet and salty topping.

• Garnish with extra chocolate drizzle and flaky salt – gives you that extra sweet and savory crunch.

• Go for visual appeal – arrange the bacon artfully on a platter for guests.

• Savor the flavors – the chocolate, bacon, and any accompaniments complement each other beautifully.

Chocolate covered bacon is meant to be savored and enjoyed. Follow these tips to serve it at its very best.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate covered bacon is an indulgent sweet and salty treat that lasts 1-2 weeks refrigerated when stored properly. To maximize its shelf life, use airtight packaging, consistent fridge temps around 40°F, separate layers, and high quality ingredients.

Keep an eye out for signs of spoilage like off smells, texture changes, and mold growth. With optimal storage conditions, you can enjoy this bacon chocolate treat for up to 3 weeks or longer.

I hope these tips help you feel confident storing chocolate covered bacon safely so you can enjoy its dynamic sweet and savory flavors. Now get creative with your own chocolate bacon creations!