How to Freeze Strawberries for Smoothies and Jam

Fresh fruit smoothies and homemade jam are some of my favorite things, and having a stash of frozen strawberries ensures you can enjoy the delicious taste of fresh strawberries any time of year.

Just like frozen bananas, frozen blueberries, and frozen raspberries – frozen strawberries are such a versatile ingredient, whether blended into a refreshing smoothie or simmered into homemade jam to spread on a hot biscuit.

Here’s a simple guide on how to freeze strawberries for both smoothies and jam:

Selecting the Perfect Strawberries

Choosing ripe strawberries is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Look for strawberries that are firm, plump, and fully red. Avoid strawberries with mushy spots or signs of mold.

Preparation Steps

Wash and Hull

Rinse the strawberries under cold water to get off any loose debris, then soak them in a large bowl of water with a splash of distilled vinegar for 5-10 minutes.

Drain and rinse them once more, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Remove the green hulls and leave using a small paring knife or a strawberry huller.

Slice or Leave the Strawberries Whole

Depending on your preference, you can either leave the strawberries whole or slice them into halves or quarters. Sliced strawberries tend to blend more easily in smoothies and cook down faster when making jam.

How to Freeze Fresh Strawberries

Single Layer Freezing

Arrange the prepared strawberries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure that the strawberries are not touching each other to prevent them from sticking together.

Flash Freeze

Place the baking sheet of strawberries in the freezer and let them freeze for about 2-3 hours, or until they are firm to the touch and frozen solid.

Transfer to Containers or Freezer Bags

Once the strawberries are frozen, transfer them into airtight freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bags to prevent freezer burn.

Label and Date

Don’t forget to label the containers or bags with the date of freezing. This helps you keep track of their freshness and ensures you use them within a reasonable time frame.

Storage and Shelf Life

Frozen strawberries can be stored in the freezer for up to 8-12 months without significant loss of quality. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to use them within 6 months.

I would love it if you would follow me on Instagram and Pinterest for all of my recipes. 

Sugar Pack Strawberries with Sugar

I normally freeze fruit without sugar, but if you intend to make jam with some of your strawberries, you can sugar pack some of them by measuring out about 1 quart of sliced berries and sprinkling 3/4 of a cup of sugar over them.

Toss until the berries start to release some juice and the sugar is dissolved, then freeze the mixture in a bag or container. Label and use these berries for making jam or preserves later in the year when you can’t get fresh berries.

You can also pack lightly crushed berries without sweetener in small containers to use for making jam or pie filling.

Ways to Use Frozen Strawberries

Freeze Strawberries for Smoothies

When you’re ready to make a smoothie, simply take out the desired amount of frozen strawberries from the freezer and add them directly to the blender. Frozen strawberries add a refreshing chill and natural sweetness to your smoothies, eliminating the need for ice cubes.

Make Homemade Jam

To make strawberry jam, transfer the frozen strawberries to a saucepan and cook them over low heat with sugar and lemon juice until they break down and thicken into a jam-like consistency. You can customize the sweetness according to your taste preference.

Make Your Favorite Recipes

Experiment with frozen strawberries in your favorite strawberry smoothie recipes, such as Strawberry Pineapple Smoothies, Strawberry Banana Smoothie Bowls, Mixed Berry Smoothies, or Grinchy Green Smoothies with Spinach. For jam enthusiasts, try making a classic Strawberry Jam or even Strawberry Simple Syrup.

Frozen strawberries will get mushy when they thaw, so be sure to use them in a recipe where they will be cooked or consumed frozen.

Freezing strawberries is a simple and convenient way to preserve their freshness and enjoy them year-round. Whether you’re blending them into a nutritious smoothie or simmering them into homemade jam, frozen strawberries are a versatile ingredient that adds vibrant flavor to your culinary creations.

With this easy guide, you can stock up on frozen strawberries and elevate your breakfasts, snacks, and desserts with delicious fruity goodness.

Did you make this recipe? If so, please leave a comment and rating below. I love hearing from you.