Updated for 2025: Shelf-life and storage guidance for fresh, small-batch Turkish Delight.
Turkish Delight, also known as lokum, is a beloved confection that has been consumed for centuries. Traditionally made from a simple mixture of sugar, water, cornstarch lokum is celebrated for its soft, chewy texture and delicate sweetness. It is often finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
If you’re a fan of Turkish Delight or just trying it the first time, you may be wondering how long it stays fresh and how to store it properly. We’ll share tips to help you enjoy it at its best.
Shelf Life of Turkish Delight
The shelf life of Turkish Delight can vary depending on factors such as ingredients and packaging. Unopened, it can last up to one year, but once the box is opened, it is best enjoyed within three months. For optimal taste and texture, always try to enjoy your lokum while it’s fresh.
At Marsel Delights, we use only natural ingredients to flavour our lokums and package them in specially designed airtight boxes to help preserve freshness until consumption. Freshly made lokum has a softer texture, brighter flavours, and a more refined mouthfeel, which is why choosing a reputable producer that works in small batches and prioritises ingredient quality makes a noticeable difference.
How to Store Turkish Delight Properly
To maintain freshness and prevent drying out, Turkish Delight should be stored under the right conditions:
- Keep it in a cool, dry, and dark place
- Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly to protect it from air exposure
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat, which can cause sweating, melting, or spoilage
- Do not refrigerate, as moisture can affect texture and flavour
Proper storage will help preserve both the texture and taste of your lokum.
Tips for Enjoying Turkish Delight
- Explore different flavours: Turkish Delight comes in a wide variety of flavours, from classic rose and lemon to more contemporary combinations such as our own Pomegranate or Hazelnut & Caramel.
- Pair with hot drinks: Enjoy your lokum with coffee or tea. For more ideas, check out our blog post on drinks pairings with Turkish Delight.
- Enjoy in moderation: A small piece of Marsel Lokum is enough to satisfy a sweet craving without adding excessive calories.
- Perfect for sharing or gifting: Turkish Delight makes an elegant treat for guests and a thoughtful gift for special occasions.
Curious to discover our Turkish delights range? Explore our collection here.


