Freezing grapes is a great way to preserve fresh grapes so you can enjoy their sweet, summertime flavor all year long. Grapes freeze exceptionally well – their texture holds up beautifully, and their flavor remains fresh and tasty. Read on to learn the best techniques for freezing grapes at home.
Selecting Grapes for Freezing
The best grapes to freeze are those that are ripe, fresh and at the peak of flavor. Look for plump grapes that are firmly attached to green, flexible stems. The grapes should be free of blemishes or soft spots.
Good grape varieties for freezing include:
- Red seedless grapes
- Green seedless grapes
- Concord grapes
- Black seedless grapes
Seedless grapes are ideal for freezing because the finished product will be seed-free. However, you can also freeze seeded grape varieties like Concord grapes.
Washing the Grapes
Before freezing, be sure to wash the grapes thoroughly under cool running water. Inspect each grape and discard any that are bruised or damaged. Pat the grapes dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Removing Grapes from Stems
You can freeze grapes either intact on the stem, or removed from the stems. Here are the pros and cons of each method:
On the stem
- Faster prep time
- Attractive presentation
- Stems are edible and nutritious
Removed from stems
- Takes more time to remove from stems
- Easier to use in recipes
- Easier to pack in freezer bags
- No concerns about eating textures of stems
If leaving grapes on the stem, be sure to sort through and remove any stems that are browned or damaged.
Blanching the Grapes
Blanching grapes before freezing is an optional step, but it helps retain their flavor, texture and nutrients. To blanch:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Prepare an ice water bath in a large bowl.
- Working in batches, submerge grape clusters into boiling water for 30-60 seconds.
- Remove and plunge into the ice bath.
- Let cool completely, then drain well.
Packing the Grapes for Freezing
Grapes freeze best when there is minimal air around each grape. This prevents freezer burn. Here are some packing tips:
For grapes on the stem:
- Lay grape clusters in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Place in the freezer until completely frozen.
- Transfer to freezer bags, gently squeezing out air.
- Seal bags and return to freezer.
For loose grapes:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread grapes in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd.
- Place in freezer until completely frozen.
- Funnel frozen grapes into freezer bags, squeezing out excess air.
For the best quality, use freezer bags designed for long-term freezing. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Grape Freezing Times
The freezing time for grapes depends on the size of the batch. Here are general guidelines:
| Amount | Freezing Time |
|---|---|
| 1 lb grapes | 2-3 hours |
| 2 lb grapes | 3-4 hours |
| 5 lb grapes | 5-6 hours |
For best quality, allow grapes to freeze completely before transferring to freezer bags for long-term storage.
Storage Times for Frozen Grapes
Properly frozen grapes can be kept in the freezer for up to 12 months. The following table provides storage times for different pack styles:
| Pack Style | Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Loose pack | 9-12 months |
| On the stem | 6-9 months |
For best quality and flavor, use frozen grapes within 9-12 months.
Using Frozen Grapes
Frozen grapes make a convenient and tasty snack – just remove from freezer bags and rinse under cool water to thaw. They can also be used in many recipes, such as:
- Smoothies – use instead of ice
- Yogurt parfaits
- Fruit salads
- Sangria and wine punches
- Cakes and muffins
- Sorbets
Most recipes that call for fresh grapes can be made with frozen grapes as well. Simply thaw first, or use straight from frozen if instructed. Substitute equivalent amounts of fresh grapes for frozen.
Thawing Frozen Grapes
Thaw frozen grapes by placing them in a colander and running under cool water. Gently roll the grapes around to allow water to thaw all surfaces evenly. Thawing will take 5-10 minutes depending on amount. Pat dry before using.
You can also thaw grapes overnight in the refrigerator. Place grapes in a bowl or colander to catch dripping liquid as they thaw.
For quicker thawing, microwave grapes on the defrost setting, stopping to stir every 30 seconds. Take care not to overheat.
Avoid thawing grapes at room temperature, as this can cause a loss of flavor and juice.
Troubleshooting Frozen Grapes
Follow these tips for best results when freezing grapes:
- Prevent freezer burn – Use high-quality freezer bags, squeeze out air, and avoid overfilling bags.
- Reduce clumping – Freeze grapes in a single layer before bagging to keep individual grapes separated.
- Blanch first – Scalding grapes in boiling water helps retain color, texture, and nutrients.
- Sort before freezing – Don’t freeze overripe, damaged, or bruised grapes which can affect quality.
Conclusion
Freezing grapes is simple and allows you to enjoy their refreshing flavor any time. Select ripe, flavorful grapes and wash thoroughly before freezing. You can freeze grapes either on the stem or loose. Allow grapes to freeze completely before transferring to airtight freezer bags. Use within 9-12 months for best quality. Thaw frozen grapes gently under cool running water. Add them to smoothies, baked goods, salads and more. Follow proper freezing techniques for tender, tasty grapes all season long.
