Q&A for How to Freeze Blackberries

Most advice recommends washing blackberries before freezing because this ensures they’re clean. It is also a good idea to remove any leaf matter, twigs and foreign objects from the blackberries as you wash them. To wash them, place the blackberries into a colander and fill a sink with cool/cold water. Dunk the colander into the water, covering the berries, and pull out. Repeat this several times. This gentle dunking action will help keep the delicate berries intact. Drain the water well. You can either allow the berries to air dry after or pat gently with some kitchen paper towel.

Yes, you certainly can freeze whole blackberries. You’ll need to wash them first and ensure they’re properly dried, as damp or wet berries risk sticking together and forming a clump when frozen. Then, arrange each berry individually across a parchment lined baking sheet, making sure not to touch any berry to another berry. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and freeze the berries (leave for 8 hours or overnight). Once frozen, the individual berries can be removed from the baking sheet and transferred to your choice of storage container, then returned to the freezer. They’ll stay whole and won’t clump together when following this method. For full instructions with images, check out the steps above.

The best way to clean wild blackberries is to soak them in cool water because they may contain small bugs. To do this, fill a large bowl of cool water, about three quarters of the way. Then add the blackberries gently. Leave to soak and scoop off all the leaf matter that rises. Use your hands to gently move the berries around and the bugs, etc. will float to the surface of the water. Tip the water out into a colander to catch the blackberries, then repeat the process another time to be sure they’re really clean. Once done, you can allow the blackberries to dry on a kitchen towel and then they’re ready for use.

When frozen blackberries are properly stored in an airtight container, they will remain at their best for up to 10 to 12 months in the freezer. Although they’re still okay to eat after 12 months, they might not taste as good after this time. The important thing is to ensure that they’re stored properly, as this protects them from getting freezer burn or taking on odors from other foods in the freezer. Older frozen blackberries can be added to baked goods like pies and cake.

Yes! Once the pie is done cooking, place it in the freezer uncovered. Once it's completely frozen, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag.

Yes, you can definitely use frozen blackberries in a smoothie, it would be tasty.

Yes, just make sure you've patted them dry after they've been thawed. Too much water will make a runny cobbler.