Old Ghirardelli brownie mix, still good?

[Shel_B]

A few days ago, I discovered a few sealed packages of Ghirardelli brownie mix. Each serving is packed in plastic pouches. They are at least four years old. Might they still be useable? I cannot find a use-by or expiration date on the package.

 

Edited February 22 by Shel_B
clarity (log)

[Smithy]

Speaking as someone who's been excavating pantry and closet storage lately 😁 I'll tell you this: the worst that can happen is that the flavor will be less than you'd like, and maybe rancid. Give it a try! If it doesn't work out, you'll be out a few extra ingredients. I doubt there's a health or safety hazard.

[gulfporter]

Open a pouch and pour onto a paper plate and look for bugs, dead or alive.  

 

If none, bake.  

[Tropicalsenior]

I second that. I would definitely bake one up and try it. To throw four packages of Ghirardelli brownies away would be a crime. They are so good.

[gfweb]

Fats go rancid with time.

If it smells like crayons, toss it.

[Maison Rustique]

I often use expired mixes if they aren't rancid. You can tell by sniffing if it is. If it is something that needs to rise, I sometimes add a little fresh baking powder to give it a boost in case that has gone flat.

[JeanneCake]

the milk chocolate chips might not be so delicious after all this time but the rest of the mix should be ok.  you could sift out the choc chips and add the same quantity of fresh ones.

[Shel_B]

1 hour ago, JeanneCake said:

the milk chocolate chips might not be so delicious after all this time but the rest of the mix should be ok.  you could sift out the choc chips and add the same quantity of fresh ones.

I've created a recipe using the mix as a base.  I've never cared for the chips, so I've always sifted them out and finely chopped a portion of a chocolate bar to replace them. I also added my favorite Dutch processed cocoa, dried coffee crystals, and vanilla extract.