Applesauce, a versatile apple puree, is a beloved household staple due to its affordability and delightful flavor. Crafted from various apple varieties, it can be customized to satisfy different taste preferences, from sweet to tangy. In the past, sour apples were used for making savory applesauce. However, it’s essential to note that it can spoil if not properly frozen.
So Can You Freeze Applesauce, And If Yes Then How Do We Freeze It?
You can indeed freeze applesauce to extend its shelf life. To do so, cool it, portion it, and store it in freezer-safe containers. Frozen applesauce stays good for 6-12 months. Enjoy its convenience and reduced food waste!
How To Freeze Applesauce?
Freezing applesauce is a fantastic way to preserve the goodness of apples for later use. Whether you have homemade applesauce or store-bought, here’s a simple guide to help you freeze it effectively:
- Prepare Your Applesauce: Start with freshly made or opened applesauce. Ensure it’s at room temperature and free from any lumps.
- Portion Control: Decide how much applesauce you’ll need per serving. Small containers or ice cube trays work great for portioning.
- Fill Containers: Spoon the applesauce into your chosen containers, leaving a bit of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Seal Tightly: Seal the containers or trays with airtight lids or plastic wrap, ensuring no air can get in.
- Label and Date: Don’t forget to label each container with the date, so you know when it was frozen.
- Thaw as Needed: When you’re ready to use it, simply remove the desired portion from the freezer and thaw it in the fridge or microwave.
How to Thaw Frozen Applesauce?
There are several methods to safely thaw frozen applesauce:
- Refrigerator thawing: Place the frozen applesauce container in the refrigerator. Allow 12-24 hours for it to thaw completely.
- Cold water bath: Submerge the applesauce container in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. A quart-size container may thaw in 1-2 hours.
- Microwave: Microwave individual serving-size portions on LOW, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes. Check for hot spots.
- Stovetop: Place the frozen applesauce container into a pot of warm water over low heat. Thaw just until softened, 5-10 minutes.
- Countertop: Leave the sealed applesauce on the kitchen counter for 1-2 hours until thawed. Refrigerate promptly after thawing.
Avoid thawing applesauce on the counter for more than 2 hours. Refrigerate or use thawed applesauce within 2 days. Do not refreeze thawed applesauce.
How To Use Frozen Applesauce?
Frozen applesauce can be used in all the same ways as fresh applesauce once thawed:
- Serve as a side dish, snack, or dessert by itself or with granola, chocolate chips, whipped cream, etc.
- Make muffins, breads, pancakes, coffee cakes, and other baked goods. Applesauce adds moisture and flavor.
- Mix into oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies.
- Swirl into ice cream, create popsicles, or use in frozen yogurt bark.
- Use as a binder in meatloaf, veggie burgers, meatballs, etc.
- Puree into soups, sauces, and dressings in place of oil or butter.
- Use to sweeten and moisten cakes, cookies, bars, and quick breads.
- Mix with mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes.
How To Tell If Applesauce Gone Bad?
Check applesauce for the following signs of spoilage before eating:
- Mold growth
- Changes in color – should always be creamy off-white
- Separation of liquids
- Changes in texture – should be smooth and creamy
- Fermented smell
- Sour flavor
- Effervescence or bubbling
- Dry, shriveled texture
Discard any applesauce that smells or looks abnormal. Do not taste applesauce if the quality is in doubt.
Frozen applesauce that has been continuously frozen may be safely consumed but the quality degrades over time. Discard applesauce for more than 6 months in the freezer.
How To Store Applesauce?
Refrigerate opened applesauce:
- Transfer to an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers work well.
- Press plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent oxidation.
- Use within 7-10 days.
Store unopened applesauce:
- Check the best-by date and follow storage instructions.
- Store unopened jars and plastic cups of applesauce in a cool, dry pantry.
- Once opened, refrigerate in a covered container.
Make ahead and freeze:
- Freeze homemade or store-bought applesauce in airtight containers.
- Leave headspace and label containers with contents and date.
- Thaw in refrigerator before serving.
Is It Good To Freeze Applesauce?
Freezing is an excellent way to preserve homemade applesauce as well as extend the shelf life of store-bought varieties.
Benefits of freezing applesauce:
- Allows long-term storage for 4-6 months.
- Retains the flavor, color, texture, and nutrients.
- Easy to thaw and use in recipes.
- Prevents waste by storing excess applesauce.
- Creates ready-to-use portions for smoothies, baking, etc.
- Lets you make large batches when apples are in season.
With proper freezing methods, applesauce can be frozen and thawed repeatedly without sacrificing taste or quality. It’s economical, convenient, and delicious.
F.A.Q
Q1. How well does applesauce freeze?
A1. Applesauce freezes beautifully. It retains its flavor, color, and smooth texture very well when frozen and thawed properly.
Q2. Can you freeze store-bought applesauce?
A2. Yes, store-bought applesauce can be frozen in its original container or transferred to a freezer bag or container.
Q3. How do you freeze applesauce in freezer bags?
A3. Spoon applesauce into freezer bags, press out excess air, seal, label with date, and freeze flat for easy storage.
Q4. What is the best container to freeze applesauce in?
A4. Rigid plastic containers or mason jars work best for freezing applesauce. Glass won’t hold odors like plastic can.
Q5. Does applesauce taste good frozen?
A5. Frozen applesauce maintains the same delicious flavor when thawed. It’s hard to tell it apart from fresh.
Q6. Is it better to freeze applesauce or can applesauce?
A6. Both methods preserve applesauce well. Canning takes more effort but seals out air. Freezing is simpler for most people.
