How To Freeze Fresh Berries
Summertime is here and fresh berries are in abundance. Whether from your garden, the local u
pick it or the market, many of us are seeing an abundance of berries larger than we can use.
While fresh berries are a great addition to any summertime meal or snack, freezing extra berries
are a great way to preserve them for enjoying the fresh berry flavor come winter. Here are some really helpful tips to help you learn how to freeze fresh berries.
How To Freeze Fresh Berries
Before freezing your berries remove all leaves and stems. Give your berries a good wash in a
large mixing bowl of water with 1 cup of vinegar. This will ensure your berries are clean and
mold spore free before you freeze them. Spread your berries in a single layer. If you plan to add
sugar to your frozen berries while they are still wet is a perfect time. Simply sprinkle a small
amount of sugar over the berries before they are dry. The sugar will stick to the damp berries
and freeze with them.
Photo by Dids: https://www.pexels.com/photo/berries-in-clear-glass-bowl-9170367/
Once your berries have dried you line cookie sheets with parchment paper and place your
berries in a single layer across the cookie sheets. Place these sheets inside your freezer to
allow each berry to individually freeze preventing them from sticking together. Be sure to not
stack trays on top of each other to prevent sticking. If you need to stack cookie drying racks
make a great option for keeping trays separated.
After several hours when your berries are fully frozen you can remove them from the trays and
place them into your choice of airtight containers. Great options for storing frozen berries include
freezer bags, upcycled glass jars, and vacuum sealer bags. An airtight container will prevent
your berries from becoming freezer burnt before you can enjoy them come winter.
Frozen berries will be soft and mushy when thawed. They are great for smoothies, oatmeal,
baking desserts, and just munching on while frozen. Thawing frozen berries will leave you with a
flavorful liquid perfect for flavoring and coloring your favorite buttercream frostings.
