Can You Freeze Apples – How To Freeze Apples

Can You Freeze Apples?

Freezing is a great way to preserve apples!  It’s quicker and easier than canning. Freezing apples allows you to work with them whenever you have the time, not just when they are in season and abundant.

Apples are so versatile that it makes perfect sense to load up on cheap apples when they are in season.  Of course, it would take days to process them in all of the different ways all at once, so pop them in the freezer and make applesauce or cobbler or jam when time allows.

How To Freeze Apples

Apples are super versatile so deciding how you will use the apples once thawed is the first step in the process.  You can even pre-season them with sugar and spices for future applesauce or pie filling.  It is even possible to freeze apples whole once they are thoroughly washed if you are really in a pinch for time.

All apples will freeze well, but crisp, sweet apples will retain their texture and flavor the best.  Some common types of apples that freeze well are Red Rome, Golden Delicious and Jonagold.

Steps For Freezing Apples:

1. Thoroughly wash the apples.
2. Peel, core, and slice or dice the apples. This is where knowing how you will use the apples helps.  I make smaller diced pieces for future applesauce and thin slices for future apple pie.  Also, this is the most labor intensive part of freezing apples, so if you have a large quantity to work with consider purchasing or renting a peeling and coring appliance.
3. If you are concerned about browning, you can dip the apple pieces in lemon juice. This will keep the apples from turning brown in the freezer.
4. Consider pre-seasoning the apples. I love to coat my apple slices in sugar and cinnamon just as I would for fresh apple pie filling.  That way the apples are ready to bake as soon as they come out of the freezer.
5. Place your prepared apple pieces in freezer safe bags.
6. Label and place in the freezer.

How To Thaw Apples

To thaw your frozen apples simply remove them from the freezer and leave them in the refrigerator overnight.  They will be ready to become applesauce, jam, or whatever your heart desires.  If you chose to season the apple slices for pie prior to freezing, you can actually place them in a pie pan and bake them prior to thawing.  This process will just take a bit of extra time to bake.