Yes, you can freeze blackberries. Tray-freezing first is the useful step: it stops delicate berries turning into one hard frozen lump and lets you pour out exactly what you need for a crumble, smoothie, jam or sauce.
Quick reference chart
| Question | Best answer | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Can you freeze blackberries? | Yes | Freeze dry berries in loose portions. |
| Wash first? | Only if needed | Dry them thoroughly before freezing. |
| Freeze flat first? | Yes | It prevents a solid icy berry block. |
| Best freezer time | Up to 6 months | Use sooner for the best flavour. |
| Best uses | Crumble, jam, smoothies and sauce | Berries soften after thawing. |
Step-by-step method
- Pick through blackberries and discard any mouldy, leaking or heavily crushed fruit.
- Rinse only if needed, then spread berries on a clean towel and dry them thoroughly without squeezing.
- Line a tray and arrange the berries in one layer with a little space between them.
- Freeze until firm, then transfer berries gently to an airtight labelled freezer bag or container.
- Press excess air from bags, seal them and return them to the freezer promptly.
- Use blackberries from frozen in smoothies, sauces, crumbles, pies and jam, or thaw them in the fridge for compote.
Should you wash blackberries before freezing?
Wash only when they need it, and dry them very well afterwards. Surface water creates more ice and makes berries stick together. If the berries are clean and dry already, freezing them as they are is usually simplest.
Can you make jam with frozen blackberries?
Yes. Freeze blackberries in labelled portions until you have enough for a batch, then cook them from frozen or thaw them overnight in the fridge. Frozen berries release juice, so use a recipe that accounts for it.
Why do blackberries go soft after thawing?
Their water forms ice crystals during freezing, so thawed blackberries are softer than fresh ones. That makes them particularly good for baking, compote, sauces, jam, yoghurt and smoothies.
What to read next
For more practical guides, see can you freeze raspberries, can you freeze blueberries, can you freeze cherries, Practical Guides hub.
Frequently asked questions
Can you freeze fresh blackberries?
Yes. Remove damaged berries, dry them well, freeze them separately on a tray, then store them in airtight portions.
How long can you freeze blackberries?
For the best flavour and texture, use frozen blackberries within about six months.
Can you use frozen blackberries without thawing?
Yes. Add them straight from frozen to smoothies, crumbles, pies, sauces and jam.
Do blackberries go mushy when frozen?
They soften after thawing, which is normal. They are best used in cooked or blended dishes rather than as firm fresh fruit.
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