How to Freeze Apples

Have you visited a Wisconsin apple orchard this fall? Visiting an orchard is a fun experience for the whole family from picking your own apples and enjoying fun fall activities to indulging in fresh bakery products or apple cider.  

Perhaps you returned home with plans to make a pie, applesauce or Caramel Apple Jam. These are great ways to use your freshly harvested apples from a Wisconsin apple orchard.  

Do you have extra apples from your visit to the orchard? Freezing your apples is a great way to minimize waste and enjoy the flavors of fall all year round.  

Which apple varieties are best for freezing? 

Crisp, firm, flavorful apples are best for freezing. Varieties like Jonathon, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith and Rome Beauty are great options.  

Softer apple varieties like Red Delicious are best enjoyed fresh. The mealy texture may soften when thawed.  

What is the best way to freeze fresh apples? 

  1. Washing and Prepping: Clean apples thoroughly before peeling, coring, and slicing them into your preferred size. 
  1. Prevent Browning: Soak slices in lemon water (1 tablespoon lemon juice per cup of water) to prevent browning. 
  1. Blanching: Briefly blanch slices to preserve color, flavor, and nutrients (optional but recommended for better quality). 
  1. Flash Freezing: Lay slices on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. 

How long can apples be stored in the freezer? 

Freeze apples in small, easy to use portions. Always label and date your bags. Apples can stay frozen for up to a year. 

What can I make with frozen apples? 

Frozen apples are great for baking and slow cooking. The texture of the apples may change slightly, but you can expect the sweet, tart flavors you know and love to remain.  

Use your frozen apples to make delicious apple-inspired desserts year round like Smoked Apple Crisp, pies, applesauce, smoothies and muffins. Frozen apples can also elevate savory dishes, such as Slow Cooker Pork Roast with Apples and Onions.  

Freezing apples is an easy and convenient way to savor the flavors of fall all year long. Frozen apples are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes from desserts and sauces to roasts and stuffing. Visit a Wisconsin apple orchard soon and make plans to preserve your harvest to enjoy throughout the year!