Can you freeze cherry pie?
Cherry pie is a delicious dessert loved by people all over the world. Whether you enjoy it on special occasions or as a regular treat, you may be wondering if it’s possible to freeze cherry pie for later use. In this article, we will explore the process of freezing cherry pie, including both baked and unbaked options, as well as freezing the filling separately.
Why Freeze Cherry Pies?
Freezing cherry pies offers several advantages that make it a convenient option for pie lovers. First, it allows you to have ready-made pies on hand for special occasions or when you just crave a slice. Instead of going to the trouble of making a freshly baked pie each time, you can save time and effort by having frozen pies on hand.
Plus, freezing cherry pies is a great way to prepare ahead of time for busy holidays. By making and freezing pies in advance, you can spend more time with your family during the holiday season instead of being stuck in the kitchen. It’s a convenient solution that allows you to enjoy the deliciousness of cherry pie without the hassle of last-minute preparation.
How to Freeze Baked Cherry Pie
Freezing a baked cherry pie is a simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Allow the pie to cool completely.
- Wrap the cherry pie in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, taking care not to over-wrap.
- Place the wrapped pie in a freezer bag to create an airtight environment.
- When freezing multiple pies, stack them carefully to avoid crushing the tops.
- Ideally, use a sturdy pie pan or a pan with a lid to protect the pie while it’s in the freezer.
- Label the freezer bag with the date and freeze the baked cherry pie for up to 6 months.
How to Freeze Unbaked Cherry Pie
If you prefer to freeze unbaked cherry pies, follow these steps:
- Assemble the unbaked pie.
- Carefully wrap the unbaked pie in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place the wrapped pie in a freezer bag for added protection.
- Adjust the pie by adding an extra ½ tablespoon cornstarch or 1 tablespoon flour to the filling.
- Optionally, sprinkle a little cornstarch or flour on the bottom of the crust before adding the cherry filling.
- Place the pie in a pan, wrap it, label the freezer bag, and freeze the unbaked cherry pie for up to 4 months.
How to freeze cherry pie filling
If you prefer to freeze just the cherry pie filling, or freeze the crust and filling separately, here’s what you need to do:
- Prepare the filling for your cherry pie, adding ½ tablespoon cornstarch or 1-2 tablespoons flour to preserve it.
- Allow the cooked filling to cool completely to room temperature.
- Transfer the cooled filling to an airtight, freezer-safe container, leaving a little extra space.
- Label the container and place in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.
Alternatively, you can pour the filling into a foil-lined pan, freeze until firm, and then wrap tightly in foil for better preservation.
Thawing and Baking Frozen Cherry Pie
Before you can enjoy your frozen cherry pie, it must be properly thawed and baked. Here’s how:
- Thaw the pie overnight or in the refrigerator for about 24 hours.
- Once thawed, remove aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- Place the pie on a sheet pan and bake in the oven at 350°F.
- For pre-baked pies, check to see if the filling is warm after a few minutes.
- For non-baked pies, follow the baking time indicated in the recipe.
- Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternatively, you can thaw and bake pre-baked cherry pies directly in the oven at a low setting of 300°F for one hour.
To defrost and bake the cherry filling, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, assemble the pie, and bake according to the recipe instructions.
Freezing Tips for Cherry Pies
Here are some helpful tips for freezing cherry pies:
- Use quality packaging such as aluminum foil, plastic freezer wrap, or heavy-duty freezer bags to ensure maximum frozen shelf life.
- Discard any pies that show signs of spoilage or mold to avoid consumption.
- If possible, store pies in the freezer at temperatures between 10-15°F for extended shelf life.
- Regular freezers can adequately store cherry pies for up to 6 months.
- When freezing unbaked pies, be sure to adjust the filling by adding extra cornstarch or flour to maintain the desired consistency after baking.
- Label each pie or container with the date it was frozen to keep track of its freshness.
- Consider using a sturdy cake pan or a pan with a lid to protect the cake during freezing and minimize the risk of damage.
- When thawing and baking frozen pies, follow the recommended baking times and temperatures in the recipe for best results.
- Allow the pie to cool before serving to ensure the filling sets properly.
Bottom line
Freezing cherry pies is a convenient way to have this delicious dessert available whenever you want. Whether you choose to freeze a baked or unbaked pie, or even just the filling, careful wrapping and proper storage will ensure that your pies retain their flavor and texture for several months. By following the step-by-step instructions in this article, you can enjoy a slice of cherry pie anytime, even when it’s not cherry season. So stock up on cherry pies to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests with a homemade treat that’s as convenient as it is delicious.
FAQS
Can I freeze a cherry pie?
Yes, you can freeze a cherry pie, whether it’s baked or unbaked. You can also freeze the filling separately.
How long can I freeze a baked cherry pie?
Baked cherry pies can be frozen for up to 6 months when stored properly.
How long will an unbaked cherry pie last in the freezer?
Unbaked cherry pies can be frozen for up to 4 months while maintaining their quality.
Can I freeze just the cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cherry pie filling separately for up to 3-4 months.
How do I thaw and bake a frozen cherry pie?
To thaw a frozen cherry pie, place it in the refrigerator overnight for about 24 hours. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap, bake according to the recipe and allow to cool before serving.
Can I freeze Cherry Pies in a regular freezer?
Yes, you can freeze cherry pies in a standard freezer. While freezers offer longer shelf life, regular freezers can adequately store cherry pies for up to 6 months.