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How to Freeze Blackberries

How to Freeze Blackberries

Sweet and delicious – blackberries are one of the most delectable summertime treats. The only problem is that blackberries are in season for a very short time period. However, there’s nothing to worry about. 

If you are a fan of blackberries, you can store your favorite berries when they are in season and enjoy them all year round! So, what is the best way to store blackberries? Can you freeze them? 

Let’s find out!   

Yes, you certainly can! Blackberries freeze well, so if you plan on storing them for a long time, freezing is the best way to go about it. However, in order to make sure that your blackberries stay flavorful, it is important to learn the right way to freeze them. 

Gather your supplies

It is so frustrating when I get started on a project such as freezing fresh blackberries and realize that what I need is just out of reach. One of the best things that I try to do when cooking or working in the kitchen is to gather all of my supplies first. 

How to Freeze Blackberries?

Storing blackberries is easier than what you may have imagined. Scroll down to take a look at step-by-step instructions on how to freeze blackberries.

Step 1 – Wash the Blackberries

Start by washing the blackberries. Keep in mind this is a very delicate fruit so you don’t want to scrub too hard. Instead, wash them very gently with cold water to make sure they are not damaged in the process. 

As you wash your berries, take the time to remove any dry or rotten berries. You don’t want them to get mixed with your frozen blackberries!

Step 2 – Spread the Blackberries on a Tray

Once the berries are cleaned thoroughly, use a paper towel to dry them. Leave them under a fan or in an open space so that they dry up properly. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread the blackberries on it. 

Don’t forget to use the parchment paper. Otherwise, the berries will stick to the base of the tray as they freeze.

Step 3 – Freeze the Blackberries

Place the tray in the freezer. Make sure to place the tray on a leveled surface otherwise your berries will roll onto one side. The berries will freeze in a few hours. However, it is best to leave your blackberries in the freezer overnight.

Step 4 – Transfer to a Bag

Once the berries are frozen solid, it’s time to transfer them from the tray to a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air from the bag as possible.

It is advisable to use a vacuum-sealing device to seal the bags. However, if it’s not available, you can use a straw to suck out air from the bags. Place the bag in the freezer and you are good to go!

Do You Have to Wash Blackberries Before Freezing?

While the above-mentioned method requires you to wash the fruits before storing, washing blackberries is not necessary. You can freeze blackberries without washing as well, and you can wash them later when you use them. 

However, keep in mind that sometimes it is best to use frozen blackberries without thawing them first. This is especially true when it comes to using frozen blackberries in baked goods. 

So, if you plan on using frozen berries in such recipes, it is best to wash them before freezing. 

How to Defrost Blackberries?

Thawed blackberries are usually used in recipes in which the extra moisture that comes from defrosting is not an issue. To defrost blackberries, shift them to an airtight plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Your blackberries will defrost in around 10 to 15 minutes!

How to Use Frozen blackberries?

You can use frozen blackberries in multiple ways. Mostly they are used in baked goods like blackberry pies and shortcakes. However, you can also use them to make ice cream, smoothies, sauces, or any other dish that requires blackberries. You can also eat semi-thawed blackberries to enjoy them as sweet, cold treats!

How Long Do Blackberries Last In The Freezer?

Blackberries can last in the freezer for up to one year. However, it is best to consume them within the first 6 to 9 months.

Tips and Tricks

Want to learn how to freeze blackberries like a pro? Here are some tips and tricks for you! 

  • If you are freezing a lot of blackberries at a time, you can line more than one layer of blackberries in a tray. However, make sure you separate all layers using parchment paper.
  • Always cover your blackberries before placing them in the freezer. Also don’t leave them in for too long as they are delicate and tend to get freezer burn easily.
  • You can also store blackberries in blocks. Instead of spreading them out on a tray, simply transfer them to a bowl and leave them to freeze. However, keep in mind that once frozen, your blackberries will be clumped together. Regardless, they will taste the same.

Now that you know how to freeze blackberries, you can always have your favorite fruit at hand. So, store blackberries today and use them all year round to make your favorite blackberry-based dishes!

How to Freeze Blackberries

How to Freeze Blackberries

This is how to freeze your favorite blackberries so you can use them all year round to make your favorite blackberry-based dishes.

Ingredients

  • Blackberries
  • Strainer
  • Baking Sheet with sides
  • Paper towels
  • Tray
  • Parchment paper
  • Freezer bags
  • Freezer

Instructions

  1. Start by washing the blackberries. Keep in mind this is a very delicate fruit so you don’t want to scrub too hard. Instead, wash them very gently with cold water to make sure they are not damaged in the process. As you wash your berries, take the time to remove any dry or rotten berries. You don’t want them to get mixed with your frozen blackberries!
  2. Once the berries are cleaned thoroughly, use a paper towel to dry them. Leave them under a fan or in an open space so that they dry up properly. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread the blackberries on it. Don’t forget to use the parchment paper. Otherwise, the berries will stick to the base of the tray as they freeze.
  3. Place the tray in the freezer. Make sure to place the tray on a leveled surface otherwise your berries will roll onto one side. The berries will freeze in a few hours. However, it is best to leave your blackberries in the freezer overnight.
  4. Once the berries are frozen solid, it’s time to transfer them from the tray to a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air from the bag as possible. It is advisable to use a vacuum-sealing device to seal the bags. However, if it’s not available, you can use a straw to suck out air from the bags. Place the bag in the freezer.

Notes

  1. If you are freezing a lot of blackberries at a time, you can line more than one layer of blackberries in a tray. However, make sure you separate all layers using parchment paper.
  2. Always cover your blackberries before placing them in the freezer. Also don’t leave them in for too long as they are delicate and tend to get freezer burn easily.
  3. You can also store blackberries in blocks. Instead of spreading them out on a tray, simply transfer them to a bowl and leave them to freeze. However, keep in mind that once frozen, your blackberries will be clumped together. Regardless, they will taste the same.
Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 0Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 0mgCarbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 0g

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David Brown

Friday 26th of June 2020

Great post.One of the best things that I try to do when cooking or working in the kitchen is to gather all of my supplies first. David Brown famous for delicious smoker recipes, expert cooking methods, cooking tips, and tricks as well as for his cooking recipes.

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