How long does fondant last?

Are you planning on buying Satin Ice, Wilton fondant, or another brand? Shelf life is probably 1 year unopened, maybe 6 months opened. You could refrig or freeze leftover fondant, but it's not necessary if it's packaged correctly.

For leftover Satin Ice (or other fondant in a tub), I've found that simply reclosing the bag that it's packaged in inside the tub with a twist tie is usually sufficient for short term storage (a few weeks.) You could double bag it as an added measure. Leftover Wilton fondant (which is more firm to begin with) should be formed into a ball or log shape, then rubbed lightly with a thin coating of vegetable shortening. Then wrap in plastic wrap and put in a Ziploc type bag. (Use freezer bag if planning to freeze.) If it's colored fondant, keep it away from light or the color will fade.

When you want to use the fondant, if it seems a little too firm, you can use your microwave to defrost it (start with just 10 seconds or so at a time, depending on how much fondant you have) or you can knead in a little vegetable shortening or glycerin to get the consistency back to where it should be.

If you haven't used fondant before, Marshmallow Fondant is a good-flavored and inexpensive option. I only recommend it for covering a cake though; it can be tricky to get the consistency just right for decorations or for modeling shapes or figures. See the recipe link in Sources.

Happy Decorating!

~ Maria

It can last months if it's properly wrapped and sealed in a container...6 months at least. And no, DO NO refrigerate it. Refrigerators = moisture and moisture is bad for fondant.

Go onto wilton.com, its a cake decorating website and brand. It should have what you're looking for on there, if not I'm sure there is a number on the website where you can ring a consultant and ask them.