Got a big bag of fresh blueberries that’s threatening to go bad if you don’t use them soon? Here’s your quick guide on how to freeze blueberries the right way, and store them for later!
How to Freeze Blueberries: The Ultimate Guide
How to Freeze Blueberries at home
You might come across many techniques and ways to freeze blueberries. Truth be told, there’s actually no right or wrong way to do it. It is just the fact that you need to be careful of a few things to make sure your frozen blueberries last you long, and that they retain their original taste, texture and of course, nutritive value.
Here, I’ve outlined the simplest and quickest way to do it.
How long can I freeze the blueberries?
These antioxidant rich berries can last you for up to a year. However, it is best to consume them within 10 months of freezing them to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Why you will love freezing blueberries at home.
- You’ll save money buy buying them in bulk
- You can reduce food wastage if you freeze and save a bag of blueberries that might go bad if unused in a few days.
- You can have a batch of blueberries on hand to use for your breakfast pancakes, smoothies and more.
- You’ll be able to enjoy the health benefits of these power packed fruits all throughout the year, even when they’re not in season.
Yes! Washing blueberries will not just help remove any dirt or grime on their surface, but will also help preserve their structural integrity when they are thawed. Unwashed blueberries will turn to mush when they are thawed.
Frozen blueberries can retain their shape and structure well if you freeze them the right way.
Thawing frozen blueberries is no big deal. Just give them a quick rinse under running water and use them for your recipes and culinary creations.
Check that there are no moldy or mushy berries in the container or bag you’ve purchased them in. Discard them before freezing because they can impart off flavors to other berries and might even cause them to get spoilt.
Also discard any unripe (green) or overripe (tan/brown) berries prior to freezing. You can also gently rinse away dust or debris on the outside of the berry with water while still submerged in a colander.
How to Freeze Fresh Blueberries
- Cover a baking sheet (with a lip) with parchment paper.
- DO NOT rinse your fresh blueberries or you will remove the bloom (a waxy coating that naturall protects blueberries).
- Spread blueberries out on the baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen remove the blueberries and store in a gallon sized freezer bag. TIP: do not forget to label the freezer bag and write an expiration date on the bag. (Todays date plus 6 months).
Tips & Tricks to Use the Frozen Blueberries
Looking for some inspiration to put those frozen blueberries to use? Here are a few ideas to get you started.
- Remember to choose the best, fresh blueberries if you’re planning to freeze them for a longer period of time.
- If you have a batch of blueberries that’s not too fresh, but not bad either, you can turn it into a nice, homemade blueberry syrup by reducing it in a pan with some sugar, and then store it for later.
- Remember that the temperature of your freezer should be zero degrees or less for the blueberries to stay frozen at their best.
- When freezing the blueberries individually on the baking sheet, make sure they’re spread out in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding.
Loved how easy it was to freeze blueberries? Looking for some more help freezing other fruits and fresh produce? Here are some quick links to help you out.
The Best Method for Freezing Fresh Blueberries. ????
How to Freeze Blueberries
Materials
- blueberries as many as you want to freeze
Instructions
How to Freeze Fresh Blueberries
- Cover a baking sheet (with a lip) with parchment paper.
- DO NOT rinse your fresh blueberries or you will remove the bloom (a waxy coating that naturall protects blueberries).
- Spread blueberries out on the baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen remove the blueberries and store in a gallon sized freezer bag. TIP: do not forget to label the freezer bag and write an expiration date on the bag. (Todays date plus 6 months).
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Freezing Blueberries FAQ’s
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