I bought a couple of these for a party and did not end up using them. So they sat in my cupboard for quite some time. I decided to take them with me on a trip and share with girlfriends. I did wonder if they would even still be good. But I did not want to throw them away without at least trying to use them. I don't think I have ever thrown away chocolate! The directions were specific about heating this product and I followed them to a "T". Heating 30 seconds at a time in the microwave at a lower power (4-5) and stir after each heat time. It seems that it might take forever but be patient, it is heating within. This was a wonderful treat and it tasted wonderful even after all that time of sitting in the cupboard. We dipped strawberries, pineapple, marshmallows, graham cracker sticks and bananas. It was delicious! I am buying more just to have on hand and to send to those girlfriends.