Summertime is officially berry season! June and July are the peak months for these delicious treats. Even though the season feels way too short, a good harvest can be so huge that there’s no way to eat them all at once. But don’t worry—berries are actually perfect for freezing.
Tips for Freezing Your Berry Harvest
All berries share one common trait: they have a very short shelf life. They’re also pretty delicate and don’t handle pressure or soaking in water very well. That’s why it’s super important to freeze them while they’re as fresh as possible. While most berries will lose a bit of their firmness and get a little softer once thawed, they still taste amazing. Plus, they are perfect for:
- Homemade jams,
- Fresh juices,
- Toppings for your morning oatmeal or yogurt.
Blueberries are the one exception to the rule—they actually stay nice and firm even after they’ve been in the freezer!
The Secret to Success: Pre-freezing
After you harvest your berries, give them a quick rinse with cool water. Be gentle here! High water pressure can bruise the fruit, so a soft, quick wash is all you need. For strawberries and currants, make sure to remove the stems and leaves before they head into the freezer.
To avoid ending up with one giant, frozen “berry brick,” you should definitely pre-freeze them. Spread the berries out on a tray so they aren’t touching or piled on top of each other, then pop the tray into the freezer. After a few hours, you can pour them into a freezer bag. Since they froze individually, they won’t stick together!
If your freezer is too cramped for a whole tray, here’s a pro tip: Put the berries in a freezer container and give it a good shake about once an hour until they’re frozen solid. This keeps them separated just as well.
How to Thaw Your Berries
When you’re ready to enjoy your harvest, just take out the amount you need. Place them in a small bowl and let them thaw at room temperature. Thawing them gently like this is the best way to keep all those nutrients and that fresh flavor intact. Just make sure to keep them out of direct sunlight while they defrost!
