How to Freeze Cranberries

5 from 12 votes

Learn how to freeze cranberries to use in recipes. This easy tutorial walks you through the steps for freezing to save time, money and flavor!

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Can you freeze cranberries? Absolutely! Below, I show you how to freeze these seasonal gems that are all over the grocery stores during the holidays. Stock up when they’re on sale and learn the best way to freeze cranberries so you can use them in recipes all year long.

Bowl of frozen cranberries
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Whether folded into baked goods or savory dishes, this superfood will bring a sweet-tart blast of nutrition including vitamin C, tons of fiber, and more antioxidants than any other fruit except blueberries.

How to freeze cranberries tutorial

Wash and dry

  • First, place all the cranberries in a colander. Rinse and drain. Pick out any shriveled or funky berries.
  • Transfer cranberries to a kitchen towel and spread out. Allow 15-20 minutes for them to air dry.
2 image collage showing how to wash and dry cranberries

Lay out on baking tray

  • Spread the cranberries in a single layer on a freezer-safe, rimmed baking tray. Try to keep the berries separated.
  • Freeze for 2-4 hours, being careful not to leave longer than 4 hours since the berries are in danger of freezer burn if left in longer.
Cranberries on baking sheet after frozen

Transfer to a storage container

  • Transfer the frozen cranberries to freezer bags or freezer-safe containers and seal.
  • Return to the freezer and store for up to one year. Be sure to date and label your container.
2 image collage adding cranberries to stasher bag and closing it to freeze

Recipes using frozen cranberries

Frequently asked questions

How long will frozen cranberries last in the freezer?

Frozen cranberries will last an entire year in the freezer.

What are some other ideas for using frozen cranberries?

Add some into your morning oatmeal while it cooks or drop them (still frozen) into a bubbly fruit seltzer drink at the end of the day. Defrosted, they are a tart addition to fruit salads.

How do you thaw frozen cranberries?

It’s best to thaw the cranberries in the fridge overnight or for at least a couple hours. When you thaw them, they’ll release some moisture. So make sure to strain them and dry them with a paper towel.

Close up shot of the cranberries frozen on a baking tray

Cranberries are so nutritious and so uniquely sweet-tart, don’t reserve them just for the holidays. Freeze them properly and then use them in recipes all year.

For more kitchen tips, check out:

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How to Freeze Cranberries

Learn how to freeze cranberries to use in recipes. This easy tutorial walks you through the steps for freezing to save time, money and flavor!
5 from 12 votes
Servings 6 servings
Course Ingredient
Calories 26
Prep Time 2 minutes
Freeze 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 2 minutes
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Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries

Instructions

  • Wash the cranberries with cold water and drain using a colander.
  • Transfer cranberries to a kitchen towel and spread out on the towel. Allow 15-20 minutes for them to air dry.
  • Spread the cranberries in a single layer on a freezer safe rimmed baking tray.
  • Freeze for 2-4 hours, being careful not to leave longer than 4 hours since they will get freezer burn.
  • Transfer the frozen berries to freezer bags or freezer safe containers and seal. Return to the freezer and store for up to one year.

Notes

Storage: After freezing, transfer the frozen cranberries to freezer bags or freezer-safe containers and seal. Return to the freezer and store for up to one year. Be sure to date and label your container.
Photo Credit: Erin Jensen

Nutrition

Calories: 26kcal, Carbohydrates: 7g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 1mg, Potassium: 48mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 34IU, Vitamin C: 8mg, Calcium: 5mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.

Cuisine American
Course: Ingredient
5 from 12 votes (12 ratings without comment)

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