How To Freeze Blackberries Without the Freezer Burn Blues
Whether you brave the brambles or buy from the farm, freezing blackberries is a move your future self will thank you for
Blackberries don’t mess around—and neither should you. They grow wild, stain everything they touch, and fight back with thorns. There’s nothing more punk than foraging for your own food and preserving it.
But don’t worry—picking them up from your local farm is pretty rock ’n’ roll too. You’re supporting the people from your community and that too is punk.
Freezing them right means locking in real value—whether you picked them off the vine or bought them from a farmer who did.
Step 1: Gentle Rinse + Full Dry
Blackberries need a rinse. They’re prone to bugs, dust, and roadside funk. Use a colander and rinse gently under cold water. Then spread them out on a clean towel and let them dry completely.
Freeze them wet and you’ll get freezer-burned clumps that taste like regret.
Step 2: Ditch the Duds
Moldy? Gone. Mushy? Compost. If you wouldn’t eat it fresh, don’t freeze it. This is your stash—don’t pollute it.
Step 3: Freeze Flat or Regret It
Line a baking sheet with parchment. Lay your berries down in a single layer.
No touching. No piling. Let ‘em breathe.
Freeze for 3–4 hours minimum until solid.
Step 4: Bag Like You Mean It
Once frozen, drop them into a freezer bag or airtight container. Press the air out like you’re packing for a tour in a hatchback.
Label the date and stash it flat.
Step 5: Store Cold, Eat Bold
0°F (-18°C) or colder.
Use within 8–12 months for best flavor and texture.
Longer’s fine, but don’t expect miracles.
Bonus: How To Use Frozen Blackberries
No need to thaw for smoothies or sauces—just throw ‘em in.
For baking or snacking, thaw in the fridge or at room temp.
Want to feel something? Eat ‘em frozen like berry ice grenades.
Interesting that you freeze, THEN bag vs just bagging and freezing. That's what I would have done and it would have been a mess!