The shelf life of pancake mix varies depending on the manufacturer and storage conditions. But yes, pancake mix can go bad.
Unopened pancake mix can last for about 6-12 months past the printed expiration date. However, once opened, the mix is exposed to moisture and air. This can cause it to spoil more quickly.
Signs of pancake mix going bad include a rancid smell or discoloration. It’s important to discard the mix if it shows any signs of spoilage.
As long as you don’t notice these signs, you can use an expired pancake mix. But your cakes won’t be as light and fluffy. Luckily, there’s a hack for that.
So, let’s dive into does pancake mix goes bad and how you can squeeze the most out of that box.
Does Pancake Mix Go Bad?
Yes, pancake mix can go bad, and it can also lose potency over time.
Every box of pancake mix has a best-by date or an expiration date printed on the back of the label as a general guideline.
Consuming an expired pancake mix won’t make you sick as long as it’s not spoiled. But you won’t get amazing dream-like pancakes if it’s too far past its expiration date.
If it’s expired but looks and smells perfectly fine, it’s safe to eat.
Most pancake mixes contain flour, sugar, sodium, preservatives, and added flavors.
These ingredients have a very long shelf life if stored correctly.
If your box of pancake mix is past its best-by date by a month or a year, it’s still perfectly safe to eat.
However, the baking powder and baking soda lose their potency over time. So, your pancakes will be less light and fluffy.
And they just won’t taste that good.
How Long Does Pancake Mix Last?
Most pancake mixes have a shelf life of between 6 to 12 months.
The baking powder or baking soda inside is what can expire, not the flour and other ingredients.
After the expiration date, they lose their potency. This will affect the flavor and texture of your pancakes.
So, when you pop those bad boys on the griddle, they won’t fluff up like your traditional pancakes.
The other ingredients in the pancake mix can last a few years, but the baking powder is the problem.
How to Tell if Pancake Mix Is Bad
There are a few cases where pancake mix isn’t safe for consumption. It typically goes bad if it’s not stored correctly.
Always keep your pancake mix sealed tightly in a cool, dry location. There are a few ways to determine if your pancake mix is still safe.
Give it a smell test. If you smell something that seems off, it likely means the mix has turned. Typically, pancake mix that has turned has a unique moldy aroma. If you smell mold, it’s time to pitch it.
Is it moldy or clumpy? Moisture got into the package if you notice mold or the mix clumps together. Toss it.
Was it stored correctly? The best way to keep out moisture and pantry pests is to seal your mix between uses tightly. If the package was left open or there are small holes in the packaging, it’s best to discard it.
Is It Safe to Eat Expired Pancake Mix?
Don’t worry, eating expired pancake mix won’t make you sick in most cases.
If your pancake mix looks and smells fine and it’s past the expiration date, it’s perfectly safe to eat.
However, if you are still concerned, conduct a taste test after whipping up a pancake. If the pancake flavors taste a little off, it’s best to dump the whole thing.
If anything feels or tastes wrong with your pancake mix, it’s best to buy a new box. But if everything tastes and looks fine, an expired box of pancake mix is perfectly safe.
How to Use Expired Pancake Mix
If your pancake mix looks and smells fine past its expiration date, it still won’t make the best pancakes.
Again, the baking powder in the mix loses its potency over time. This will make your pancakes flat and sad. Luckily, there’s a super easy fix!
Just add more baking powder to an expired box of pancake mix for fresh, fluffy pancakes! Here’s a quick and easy way to use expired pancake mix.
1. Prepare the pancake batter according to the instructions and pop one on the griddle.
2. The baking powder is still potent if the pancake looks light and fluffy.
3. If your pancakes are flat, add 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 teaspoons of baking powder for every cup of pancake mix.
4. Stir, and try again!
How To Store Pancake Mix
The key to storing pancake mix for years is to ensure it stays cool and dry.
Once you open your container of pancake mix, be sure that you seal it up tightly. Use a clip to ensure no air or moisture can penetrate the package.
You can also store it in an air-tight container, but hold onto those cooking directions on the back of the box!
I like to place my pancake mix in a container with a lid. Then, I cut out the directions from the box, and tape it to the container.
Can You Freeze Pancake Mix?
One of the best ways to ensure that your box of pancake mix lasts for years is by placing it in the freezer.
Freezing pancake mix is a great way to ensure that the baking soda and powder don’t lose potency. Also, no moisture can penetrate the packaging.
Storing it in a cool, dry location is excellent for keeping pancake mix fresh. But storing it in the freezer is even better if you only make pancakes a few times a year.
