Freezing raspberries lets you keep them for longer and are just as nutritious as fresh raspberries. Follow these step-by-step instructions on how to freeze raspberries, plus how to store them in the freezer.
Freezing Raspberries
Fresh raspberries only last 2-3 days in the refrigerator. But freezing them will make them last for 8-12 months.
The trick is to freeze raspberries when they’re most ripe.
Freezing retains the nutrient content in fruit so frozen ripe raspberries will have just as many nutrients as fresh ones.
In smoothies, frozen raspberries have a chilling and thickening effect. This omits the need for ice, which can water down the drink.
RELATED: 12 Benefits of Eating Raspberries
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Place the raspberries in a colander. Wash them under cool running water.
Step 2: Transfer the raspberries on a clean towel. Pat dry. Make sure the raspberries are completely dry.
Step 3: Place the raspberries on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat in a single layer.
Step 4: Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer.
Step 5: Put the raspberries in a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer.
Photo Credit: amazon.com
Expert Tips
Avoid freezing overripe raspberries.
When freezing raspberries, only use ones that are fresh and ripe.
The berries should have a lightly sweet smell. They should also be plump, firm, and bright red-pink.
Don’t freeze raspberries that are soft, discolored, or mushy. These are signs that the berries are going bad.
Dry the raspberries well.
After washing the raspberries, make sure they’re totally dry.
Otherwise, the berries will stick together in the freezer.
This will make it difficult to properly measure raspberries for smoothies.
Freeze raspberries on a plate.
Depending on the size of your baking sheet, it might not fit in the freezer.
If this happens, freeze the raspberries on a freezer-safe plate instead.
A disposable aluminum tray or pie pan also works.
Questions You May Have
Yes. Washing raspberries will remove any debris or dirt. However, it’s important to dry them completely so they don’t stick together in the freezer.
It’s recommended to use frozen raspberries within 8-12 months. After 12 months, they’ll be safe to eat, but they won’t taste as good.
No, add frozen raspberries directly to smoothies. If you need fresh raspberries, you can thaw them, but they won’t be as plump as fresh ones.
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How to Freeze Raspberries Properly
INGREDIENTS
- Raspberries
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare baking sheet.Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
- Wash and dry the raspberries.Place the raspberries in a colander. Wash them under cool running water for 10 to 20 seconds. Transfer the raspberries on a clean towel. Pat dry. Make sure the raspberries are completely dry.
- Put the raspberries in the freezer for 1-2 hours.Place the raspberries on the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure the raspberries aren't crowded together.Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer. Freeze for 1 to 2 hours, or until the raspberries are frozen.
- Put frozen raspberries into a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer.Push out the extra air and press the seal to close. Use frozen raspberries within 8-12 months for the best flavor.
NOTES
- Only freeze raspberries that are plump, firm, and bright red-pink. Don’t freeze mushy or discolored berries.
- Dry the raspberries well after rinsing them. This will reduce clumping in the freezer.
- If your baking sheet is too big for the freezer, freeze raspberries on a plate instead. You can also use a disposable aluminum pie pan.