How to Freeze Strawberries: A Step-by-Step Guide

Make the most of your strawberry haul by freezing them the right way. Here's what you need to know:

How Long Do Fresh Strawberries Last?

It depends on how they're stored. Fresh whole strawberries will last for one to two days at room temperature, so you can keep them on your counter if you plan to use them within the next day or so. In the fridge, they'll stay good for about one week.

When Are Strawberries In Season?

You can find fresh strawberries in most grocery stores all year long. They typically taste best, however, during harvest season. Depending on where you live in the U.S., strawberries are harvested between May and June.

Can You Freeze Fresh Strawberries?

Yes! You can absolutely freeze fresh strawberries. This is a great way to preserve a berry haul that you don't plan on using within the next week. Blend frozen strawberries into your smoothies or use them in your favorite fruity desserts.

How to Freeze Fresh Strawberries

Strawberries will last for about six months in the freezer if you follow a series of simple steps:

1. Wash

Start by washing your berries. Place them in a colander, rinse them thoroughly on all sides, and allow them to dry completely.

2. Hull

Using a paring knife angled toward the center of the strawberry, cut a circle around the leafy stem to remove the hull. Repeat until all berries are hulled. (This top-rated paring knife is only $10 on Amazon).

3. Cut (optional)

You can skip this step if you want to freeze your strawberries whole. Slicing or quartering the berries is preferable if you plan to use them for smoothie-making — this will make your blender's job easier.

4. First Freeze

Arrange the whole or cut strawberries in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Cover and freeze overnight or at least four hours.

5. Second Freeze

When the berries are completely frozen, transfer them to freezer-safe bags labeled with the date. Store flat in the freezer for up to six months.

Tip: Some bakers like to freeze their strawberries in sugar, as it keeps the berries from becoming runny as they thaw. You can totally sprinkle sugar over the strawberries before the first freeze (use about ½ cup of sugar for every four cups of strawberries) — just make sure to adjust the sugar in your recipe accordingly.

How to Thaw Fresh Strawberries

Easily thaw the frozen strawberries by moving them from the freezer to the fridge about six hours before you plan to use them. If you're in a rush, you can run cold water over the berries for about half an hour.