Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 3: Preparing the blueberries
• Part 2 of 3: Freezing the blueberries
• Part 3 of 3: Using frozen blueberries
• Tips

Blueberries are the juiciest and most delicious for a short period between June and August. If you freeze them on top, you can enjoy that fresh summer flavor all winter long. To freeze blueberries, spread them out on a tray and put them in the freezer until hard, then scoop them into bags for more compact storage. If you want to learn how to freeze blueberries so that they retain their texture and flavor, keep reading.

To step

Part 1 of 3: Preparing the blueberries

1. Harvest blueberries at their peak. For the best freezing results, it is best to freeze berries that are as juicy, tender and flavorful as can be. Freezing berries that are too old or a little pulpy when thawed will disappoint you in both texture and taste.
   • Harvest blueberries early in the morning - that's when their flavor is strongest.
   • If you don't freeze blueberries right after harvesting, keep them cool in the fridge until ready.
2. Decide if you want to wash the berries. When it comes to washing blueberries before freezing, there are two camps. There is research showing that washing blueberries before freezing can result in a slightly tougher skin when the berries thaw. Others say the difference is barely noticeable, and they prefer no dirt in their freezer.
   • If the berries are washed before freezing, you can enjoy a frozen berry without having to thaw it.
   • If you plan on using the berries in a pie recipe or any other baked dessert, washing before freezing shouldn't be a problem.
   • If you decide to wash before freezing, rinse the berries gently and let them dry completely before freezing.
3. Place the berries on a plate in a single layer. A baking tray or large roasting pan is ideal for this. Spread them out so they don't freeze together.

Part 2 of 3: Freezing the blueberries

1. Freeze the plate until the blueberries are frozen. This should take 2-3 hours. Do not leave the blueberries on the baking tray for too long before removing them; by doing so they run the risk of freezer burn.
2. Place the frozen berries in a vacuum-tight bag or a Ziploc bag. Remove the excess air from the bag. The more air you can get out, the less freezer burn can take place on the berries. Label the bags with the date you frozen them.
3. Keep the bags in the freezer. You can store frozen berries for up to a year. Enjoy it whenever you want.

Part 3 of 3: Using frozen blueberries

1. Slowly thaw berries. The best way is to put them in the fridge or let them reach room temperature. Do not use a microwave for defrosting unless you plan on baking with it.
   • If you want to use frozen berries for baking, they don't need to be thawed. Just put them directly in the muffins or other baked goods. Bake as usual. This will prevent the blueberries from being crushed as you mix them into the batter, and they will be juicier and meatier when the product is ready. They will still heat up just as warm as the rest of the baked treat.
   • If you've decided not to wash the berries before freezing, remember to do it once you've thawed them.
2. Ready.

Tips

• Put the date you frozen them on your bags so you can keep track of when you should have eaten them.
• Read how to store blueberries for additional tips on how to keep them immediately edible once thawed.