Freezing cooking apples is a fantastic way to enjoy their fresh flavor and texture long after apple season ends. Whether you want to make crumbles, pies, sauces, or smoothies, freezing apples properly ensures they stay tasty and ready to use. Here’s an easy, friendly guide on how to freeze cooking apples like Bramleys, so you can have them on hand whenever inspiration strikes.
Why Freeze Cooking Apples?
Cooking apples like Bramleys are perfect for baking and cooking because of their tartness and ability to soften nicely. However, fresh apples don’t last forever. Freezing helps you:
– Save surplus apples before they spoil
– Have pre-prepped apples ready for recipes
– Avoid waste and enjoy seasonal flavors year-round
Step-by-Step: How to Freeze Cooking Apples
1. Choose the Right Apples
Select firm, crisp cooking apples such as Bramley, which hold up well to freezing and cooking. Avoid mealy or overly ripe apples for best results.
2. Prepare Your Apples
– Wash the apples gently under cold water and pat dry.
– Peel and core the apples to remove seeds and tough skin.
– Slice the apples into about half a centimeter thick slices or wedges. Avoid cutting slices too thin to prevent mushiness after freezing.
3. Prevent Browning
Apples oxidize and turn brown quickly once cut. To keep them looking fresh:
– Toss the apple slices in lemon juice or soak them in a bowl of water mixed with lemon juice for a few minutes. This slows browning without affecting taste.
4. Flash Freeze the Slices
– Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
– Spread the apple slices out in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.
– Place the tray in the freezer and freeze until the slices are solid, usually about 2 hours. This step prevents the slices from sticking together later.
5. Store for Long-Term Freezing
– Once frozen, transfer the apple slices into airtight freezer bags or containers.
– Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
– Label the bags with the date and contents.
– Store in the freezer for up to 6 months for best quality.
Tips for Using Frozen Cooking Apples
– Use frozen apples directly in recipes like crumbles, pies, and sauces without thawing. They soften nicely when cooked.
– For smoothies or purees, you can blend them straight from frozen.
– If you prefer, thaw the apples in the refrigerator before baking to mix juices with dry ingredients, especially for pies.
Can You Freeze Whole Cooking Apples?
Yes, but whole apples will become soft and are best used for purees or smoothies after thawing. To freeze whole apples:
– Wash and dry the apples.
– Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper, spaced apart.
– Freeze until solid, then transfer to bags.
– Use within 6 months.
Extra Tips for Freezing Apples
– Don’t freeze more than 2 pounds of apples per cubic foot of freezer space per day to ensure quick freezing and maintain quality.
– Avoid freezing apples that are bruised or damaged.
– For best flavor, use frozen apples within 6 months.
Freezing cooking apples is a straightforward process that preserves their delicious flavor and texture, making your future baking and cooking easier and more convenient.
Enjoy your apple-filled creations anytime by freezing your cooking apples the right way!