I’m always looking for ways to use up leftovers and save money, so I was excited to learn that you can freeze whole apples! It’s a great way to keep them from going bad, and you can use them later in recipes or smoothies. Keep reading for instructions on how to do it.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze whole apples. The impact on taste and texture may vary depending on the variety of apple, but in general freezing will make them a little harder and less sweet. They will last for several months in the freezer.
Can You Freeze Whole Apples?
Can you freeze whole apples? Yes, you can freeze whole apples. The impact on taste will depend on how long they are frozen for. The impact on texture will depend on how they are frozen. They will last in the freezer for around six months.
How To Freeze Whole Apples?
Apple season is in full swing and if you have an abundance of apples, freezing them is a great way to preserve them. Here are the steps to freeze whole apples:
1. Peel the apples and remove the cores.
2. Slice the apples into thin pieces. You can leave them whole if you prefer.
3. Place the apple slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 2-3 hours or until solid.
4. Transfer the frozen apple slices to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Whole Apples
When freezing whole apples, there are some important steps to take in order to ensure that they freeze properly and maintain their quality. Here is a list of the prep steps to take:
1. Make sure that the apples are clean and free of any blemishes or bruises.
2. Peel the apples if you prefer them unpeeled, or cut them into slices if you want them peeled.
3. Remove the cores from the apples, either by cutting them out or using a corer tool.
4. If you are not going to use them right away, soak the apple slices in lemon juice or ascorbic acid (vitamin C) solution to prevent browning.
5. Place the apple slices on a baking sheet and freeze for several hours until they are solidified.
How To Thaw Frozen Whole Apples
The best way to thaw frozen Whole Apples is by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight. If you need them sooner, you can place them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.
Another method is to microwave them on a low setting for a short amount of time. However, this can cause the apples to become soggy. Finally, if you want to use them for cooking, you can remove them from the freezer and chop or slice them before cooking.
How Long Does Whole Apples Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
It all depends on the type of apple. For example, Red Delicious apples will last around 2-3 weeks outside at room temperature, while Granny Smith apples will last around 4-5 weeks. But as a general rule, whole apples will last around 1-2 months outside at room temperature.
It’s important to note that storing apples in the refrigerator or in a cold place like a basement can actually make them go bad faster, as the cold slows down their respiration process (the process by which they emit ethylene gas). So unless you’re going to eat them within the next week or two, it’s best to store them somewhere cool but not cold.
How Long Does Whole Apples Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
The general consensus is that whole apples will stay fresh in the fridge for around two weeks. However, this can vary depending on the variety of apple and how it was stored before being refrigerated. For example, if an apple has been bruised or damaged, it will rot more quickly than an apple that is intact.
It’s important to note that refrigeration does not stop apples from decaying; it just slows down the process. So if you want your apples to last as long as possible, be sure to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. And once they’ve started to rot, don’t eat them – throw them away instead!
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Whole Apples?
Ideas, list:
1. Make a smoothie: Combine one or two whole apples with some yogurt, milk, ice cubes, and/or other fruit for a quick and healthy breakfast or snack.
2. Make apple sauce: Peel and chop up one or two apples, place them in a pot on the stove with some water or apple juice, cinnamon (optional), and sugar (optional), then cook until the apples are soft. Mash them up with a fork or immersion blender for a homemade sauce that goes great on pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, etc.
3. Make an apple pie: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Peel and chop up two to three apples
