Flavorful berries can be difficult to find during the winter months. Because of this, I like to freeze my extra berries. That way my family and I can enjoy them on top of cereal, in muffins, or mixed in our favorite waffle batter all year long. For best results, always chose plump, fresh berries that are bright in color.
How to Freeze Berries:
- Rinse fresh berries with cool water in a colander. Allow them to drain in the colander for 15 minutes. Shake off as much of the water as possible and then pat the berries dry with a lint-free kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Remove any damaged berries, overripe berries, leaves or stems.
- Lay the berries in a single layer on a cookie sheet. This will prevent them from clumping together as they freeze. Place the tray in the freezer overnight or until the berries are thoroughly frozen.
- Transfer the berries into a freezer-safe container such as a resealable freezer bag. If freezing the berries in smaller portions, use quart-size freezer bags. Squeeze out as much of the air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Write the date on the container with a permanent marker.
- Store the berries in the freezer for up to six months.
- Use the frozen berries directly in foods like shakes and smoothies. Or thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours if mixing them into foods like cobblers, cakes and jam.
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