How do you freeze strawberries?

1. Select and prepare strawberries: Choose ripe, firm, and unblemished strawberries. Hull the strawberries by removing the green tops.

2. Wash and dry: Gently wash the strawberries in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry thoroughly with a clean paper towel to remove excess moisture.

3. Optional: Slice or leave whole: Depending on your preference, you can slice the strawberries or leave them whole. Smaller strawberries are often left whole, while larger berries can be sliced into halves or quarters.

4. Flash freeze: To prevent the strawberries from sticking together, it's helpful to flash freeze them first. Place the prepared strawberries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread them out so that they are not touching each other. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the strawberries are frozen solid.

5. Transfer to freezer-safe containers: Once the strawberries are flash frozen, remove the baking sheet from the freezer and carefully transfer the strawberries into airtight freezer-safe containers. Label the containers with the date, so you know when you froze them.

6. Freeze for long-term storage: Place the sealed containers with strawberries in the freezer and store them at 0°F (-18°C) or below for up to 1 year.

When you want to use the frozen strawberries, simply take the desired amount out of the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Use thawed strawberries within a few days.