How to Freeze Blueberries
There’s typically a time in the summer when blueberries are on super sale at the grocery store, so I like to stock the freezer for future months. And freezing blueberries is a great way to extend the life of fruit with hardly any effort and preserve both the nutrients and peak flavor. You can use this method with one pint of extra berries or a whole flat if you pick or buy a bunch! This method can be used all year long, though blueberries are often on sale in North America in the summer when they are at their peak and in abundant supply. (You might also like these posts: How to Freeze Bananas, How to Freeze Milk, and How to Freeze Strawberries. And my guide to freezing food.)
Ingredients You Need
To freeze blueberries, all you need are fresh blueberries—of any variety including regular, wild, or jumbo blueberries. Then, grab a freezer bag (or a few) depending on how many berries you have to freeze. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox. You can use plastic freezer bags or the reusable kind from a brand like Stasher.
How to Freeze Blueberries, Step-by-Step
Here’s a look at the simple process involved in freezing fresh blueberries. Scroll down for the full info and tips. TIP: You can freeze berries for 6-12 months.
What do I need to freeze blueberries?
You just need berries and freezer bags. If you have just one pint, you can use quart-size freezer bags. If you have more than that, opt for a gallon size. You’ll need to leave some space in the bags so you can freeze the berries flat in an even layer, which helps prevent them from freezing together.
Recipes for Frozen Blueberries
Here are some kid-friendly blueberry recipes that we love and recommend for ways to use your frozen blueberry stash: TIP: You can also use them in a blueberry pie if that’s more appealing to you!
Does freezing blueberries destroy their antioxidants?
No, there is no significant difference in the antioxidant levels of fresh, frozen, or dried blueberries.
How to Store
Freeze berries in a freezer bag with as much air removed as possible for 6-12 months. Add them directly (still frozen) to recipes.
Best Tips for Success
Do as few or as many berries as you like. Use a quart-size freezer bag for one pint and a gallon size for two pints. Fill bags halfway to avoid overfilling and to allow them to freeze in a flat layer. Aim to have the berries totally dry to reduce the chances of them freezing together. Freeze in one, flat even layer to avoid them freezing together. Use in smoothies, muffins, oatmeal, jam, crisp, or any other favorite blueberry recipe.
If you have questions or want to share a way that you use frozen blueberries, please comment below. I love hearing from you guys! These silicone bags freeze produce wonderfully.
How to Freeze Rhubarb
How to Freeze Peaches (the Easy Way)
How to Freeze Strawberries
How to Freeze Bananas (the Easy Way)
This post was first published July 2020.