Not sure what the best way to go about freezing blueberries is?In this guide, we’ll cover all the important steps so you know how to freeze blueberries for smoothies, baking and all your favorite recipes. Bonus: We’re also including tips for thawing.
Can You Freeze Blueberries?
Quick Answer: Yes, you can freeze blueberries without losing any of their delicious flavor.There are just a few things to know first.If you follow the steps listed below, you’re guaranteed to have the best results.
Planning on using frozen blueberries for smoothies?Check out our blender tips here:Best Blenders for Smoothies.
Step 1 – Rinse the Blueberries
If you want the blueberries to be ready to use straight from the freezer, the first thing you should do is clean them.
This is easily done by rinsing them under cool running water in a colander.You can also submerge them in a bowl of water if they’re freshly picked and you need to separate them from the twigs and leaves.Just give them one final rinse afterwards.
You can also save this step for later if you prefer. If you skip washing before freezing, just rinse the frozen blueberries before eating or using in a recipe.
If you rinsed the blueberries as a first step, the next thing to do is dry them well.Just grab a paper towel or any clean kitchen towel you like.
Spread the blueberries out on the towel and let them air dry.To speed this process up, gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 3 – Pre-Freeze the Blueberries
Here’s the step that will keep the blueberries from sticking together in giant blueberry lump in the freezer.
Take a piece of parchment paper and place it on a baking sheet.You probably don’t need the parchment paper if you’re using a good nonstick pan.
Place the blueberries on the pan and space them apart so that they’re not on top of each other.It’s OK if they touch, you just don’t want them to be sitting in a pile.Then put the pan in the freezer for a few hours, or until the blueberries are frozen solid.
Step 4 – Transfer the Blueberries to a Freezer Safe Container
Now that your blueberries have frozen separately and you’ve avoided the frozen blueberry mountain, transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
You can use a freezer bag or Tupperware, whichever you prefer.If you go with a bag, get all the air out that you can before you seal the top.If you use Tupperware, try to fill it all the way to prevent air pockets.
That’s it!Easy, right?
For answers to frequently asked questions about blueberries, seeWhat Do Blueberries Taste Like?
Bonus Tips
Depending on how you’re going to use the frozen blueberries, you may or may not want to thaw them first when you take them out of the freezer.
If you’d like to use them in a salad or in any recipe that requires them to be fully thawed, watch the video below on microwave defrosting in a minute or less.
Need more helpful microwave tips? See our article on the best microwave toaster oven combo.
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
