Wondering how to freeze blueberries? If you just scored a haul of fresh berries during summer picking, here’s the best way to store them for short and long term use.
How to Store Blueberries
Blueberries will last for 5-7 days in the fridge when stored properly. Here are some tips to help your berries last the longest:
- Refrigerate them. Blueberries should be stored in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Place them in a breathable container, such as a vented plastic bag or a shallow container covered with a loose lid or plastic wrap.
- Unwashed and Dry. Keep blueberries unwashed until you’re ready to use them. Moisture can promote spoilage, so it’s essential to store them dry. Wash them just before you’re ready to use them.
- Be gentle. Handle blueberries with care to prevent bruising. They have delicate skins that can easily be damaged, leading to spoilage.
- Air Circulation. Allow some airflow around the blueberries. Avoid tightly sealing or crowding the container, as it can trap moisture and increase the chances of mold growth.
- Check Regularly. Regularly check the blueberries for any moldy or spoiled berries. If you find any, promptly remove them to prevent the spoilage from spreading to the rest.
How to Freeze Blueberries
It may be tempting to just pour all your fresh blueberries into a Ziploc bag and freeze them, but don’t do it! Going about it that way will lead to berries that clump together and are harder to use in the future.
Instead, here’s how to freeze blueberries for long term storage:
- Prep: Start by washing the blueberries under cool running water. Remove any stems and sort through them to discard any damaged or unripe berries.
- Dry: Pat the blueberries dry gently with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Ensure they are completely dry before moving to the next step.
- Flash-Freeze: Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spread the dry blueberries in a single layer on the tray, making sure they are not touching each other. This helps prevent them from clumping together during freezing.
- Freeze: Place the tray with the blueberries in the freezer and let them freeze for a few hours, or until they are solidly frozen.
- Transfer: Once the blueberries are frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Remove any excess air from the bag or container, seal it tightly, and label it with the date.
- Return to Freezer: Put the bag or container of frozen blueberries back in the freezer, and they will be ready for long-term storage. Frozen blueberries will keep for up to a year, but their flavor is the best when used within 6 months. (I love pulling our frozen summer berries in the depth of winter for a baking session!)
When Are Blueberries in Season?
Depending on where you live, blueberries are typically in season during the summer months from May to September. In my neck of the woods (the Northeast), they are available from mid-July to the end of August.
Are Blueberries Good For You?
Absolutely! Blueberries are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are low in calories and a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, and various antioxidants. Blueberries are also known for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They have been associated with benefits such as supporting heart health, improving brain function, aiding digestion, and promoting healthy skin.
Why Are They Called Blueberries? What Color Are They?
Blueberries are called “blueberries” due to the color of their skin, which is a deep blue or purplish-blue hue. When the berries are fully ripe, their skin takes on this characteristic color, giving them their name.
While most blueberries are indeed blue, there are also varieties that are red, purple, or even black in color. The color also varies according to their ripeness. For example, berries that are not yet ripe will have a mixture of deep blue, light blue, pink and green.
Does a Blueberry Have Seeds?
Yes, blueberries have seeds, but they are very small and usually not noticeable when you eat the fruit. The seeds of a blueberry are tiny and located inside the flesh of the berry. When you bite into a blueberry, you may not feel or notice the seeds because they are soft and usually not a significant part of the eating experience (similar to bananas, which also have seeds).
Blueberry Recipes to Try
Want to make something delicious with blueberries? Here are some of my favorite recipes:
- Blueberry Shortcake
- Blueberry Crisp in a Mug
- Blueberry Peach Cobbler
- Overnight Blueberry French Toast Bake
- Blueberry Bread Pudding
- Sourdough Blueberry Muffins
- Blueberry Mojito
- Blueberry Buckle
- Blueberry Scones
- Blueberry Coffee Cake
More Resources
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