Brownies should not be covered in an airtight container before they have cooled. You can cover them with a permeable cloth like a tea-towel, cheesecloth or fly cover. This will protect them from insects while still allowing the steam to escape. After the brownies have completely cooled they can be placed in a container for storage.
What happens if you cover brownies before they cool
Check out what you can expect if you cover brownies before they cool.
1. The top can become soft
Brownies that are covered before they have been completely cooled can end up with a soft and soggy top. Brownies that are still warm will release steam which will be trapped in the container. The condensation will drip down onto the top of the brownies causing the top to become soft.
It is best to allow brownies to cool on your kitchen bench preferably on a cooling rack. That way air can circulate around the brownies cooling them quicker. The top, bottom and sides will also stay crispy and delicious.
2. They will take longer too cool
Brownies that are put into a container before they cool will take much longer to cool down. The heat will be trapped in the container with the steam and condensation. To allow brownies to cool as fast as possible leave them out on the bench.
3. They will not last as long
Brownies that are cooled in the container will trap moisture and therefore are more like to encourage bacterial and mold growth. It is essential that the steam is allowed to escape so the brownies can be stored without the excess moisture and will keep for longer.
How to cover brownies as they cool
If you are not keen on letting your brownies cool on the bench without a cover, here are a few ideas. These will cover the brownies without trapping condensation in and causing the top to become soggy.
Cover with a tea-towel
The easiest way is to cover your brownies with a tea-towel. These soft cotton towels will allow the steam to escape while keeping any flying insects off.
Cover with a fly net
Another great option to cover your brownies as they cool is to use a fly net. These nets are great for outdoor parties and will allow the steam to escape while keeping the flies off.
Cover with cheesecloth
Covering your brownies with cheesecloth in another good way to allow them to cool while keeping the bugs off. Cheesecloth is a light cloth that will let the moisture escape and can be washed to be used again.
Check out this great, fudgy brownie recipe.
How long it takes for brownies to cool
Brownies should be cooled in their tray for 5-10 minutes and then on a cooling rack for up to 2 hours. Most brownies will take 40 minutes to 1 hour to cool but it will depend on the temperature of your room.
After the brownies have cooled you can cut them up and pop them in an airtight container. They will store on the bench for up to 1 week and in the freezer for 4 months.
6 Easy steps to cool brownies
Check out these easy steps to cool brownies so they keep for longer.
1. Let the brownies to cool in the pan
It is best to allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes after taking them out of the oven. This will allow the sides to crisp up and for the excess heat to escape. This will allow the pan to cool and make the process of removing the brownies easier.
2. Take the brownies out of the baking pan
The next step it to remove the brownies from the baking pan. Remember that the pan or dish may still be hot so it is best to use oven gloves. Glass baking dishes can stay hot for over 30 minutes so always protect your hands.
If you have baked your brownies on parchment paper you can often lift the whole tray of brownies up in one go. Otherwise you can tip the brownies out upside down on the bench and move them to your cooling rack.
3. Move the brownies to a cooling rack
The next step is to move your brownies to a cooling rack. This will allow the air to circulate around the brownies allow the steam to escape quickly and for them to cool fast. Allowing the steam to escape from the edges will also help to keep the edges crispy while the center stays chewy.
4. Take the brownies out of the parchment paper
The next step is to remove the parchment paper from your brownies. This is usually as easy as slipping the paper out from under the brownies by gently pulling. That way the steam can escape from the bottom of the brownies allowing them to cool.
5. Cover with a tea towel to avoid bugs
You can then cover your brownies with a light tea towel or cheesecloth. This will keep any bugs off of the brownies as they cool.
6. Store you brownies
After your brownies have cooled they can be stored in an airtight container. I like to use a glass Pyrex container but you can use plastic or metal. Brownies can be stored on the bench for around 1 week or in the freezer for 4 months.
Should I cover brownies while they cool? | Summary
Brownies can be covered with a light cloth as they cool to keep bugs off but they should not be covered in an airtight container. This can trap condensation and cause the top to become soggy. It is best to cool brownies on a cooling tray until they come to room temperature then store in an airtight container.
Happy cooking.
I am an accredited practicing dietitian, experienced gardener and a dedicated cook. I love writing and sharing my experience so you can learn from my successes and mistakes.