It’s easy to find raspberries year-round, but when they’re at their peak in summer, it’s worth preserving their vibrant pink-red color and sweet, juicy flavor so you can enjoy them for months to come. The best way to do that is by freezing them. Because raspberries are such a delicate fruit and can turn mushy and spoil quickly, it’s important to know how to freeze them properly. Read on for the best tips for storing and preserving this gem-hued berry.
Can You Freeze Raspberries?
Yes, you can freeze raspberries! Not only is it safe to do so, but it’s a great way to keep them fresh for longer, since raspberries are typically best enjoyed within a few days of purchase.
How to Freeze Fresh Raspberries
If you have a pint (or more!) of fresh raspberries that you want to save, here’s how to freeze them: Start by carefully rinsing them under cool running water, then lay them out on a paper towel or clean dish towel and gently pat dry to remove any excess moisture. This will help to prevent ice crystals from forming once the berries are stored in the freezer.
Once they’re dry, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange the berries in a single layer, and place them in the freezer for at least one hour. Use a larger baking sheet than you think is necessary to give the berries plenty of space so they don’t touch or stick together. This helps prevent the berries from clumping once you transfer them to a zip-top bag or storage container. Once the berries are completely frozen, remove them from the baking sheet and place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or storage bag. Alternatively, you can vacuum seal the frozen berries. Be sure to label and date each storage container so you know exactly how old the berries are.
How Long Do Frozen Raspberries Last?
If stored properly, frozen raspberries will stay good for up to 18 months in the freezer. That means you’ll have months and months to enjoy their peak flavor, even during the dead of winter.
How to Use Frozen Raspberries
Although frozen raspberries aren’t great for snacking—they tend to become soft and a bit mushy once thawed—there are so many uses for them in the kitchen. Use them to make beverages such as smoothies or this watermelon-raspberry frozen sangria, homemade sorbet or frozen yogurt, or stir them into a bowl of warm oatmeal. You can also thaw the frozen berries, then use them to make pies and fruit crisps like this peach-raspberry crisp.
