Introduction
Apple pies are a delicious treat enjoyed by many, but they can only last for a few days after baking. Fortunately, there is a solution to this problem – freezing! Freezing apple pie can extend its shelf life and allow you to enjoy it even when it’s not fresh out of the oven. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of freezing apple pie, including tips and tricks to ensure that your pies come out perfectly.
The Benefits of Freezing Apple Pie: Tips and Tricks to Make It Last
Freezing apple pie comes with several benefits, the most significant of which is the ability to have freshly baked pie, anytime. By freezing your apple pies, you can make several of them while still having enough to last you for as long as it takes to thaw out a pie. When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen apple pies, heat them in the oven for a few minutes, and they’ll come out as fresh as if it were freshly baked. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that your apple pies freeze and thaw perfectly:
- Use a sturdy crust: ensuring your apple pies have a sturdy crust that doesn’t become soggy is an important factor in guaranteeing the pies freeze well. Consider using a recipe that features a rather thick crust, or add some cornstarch or tapioca to the preserves.
- Pre-cook the apple filling: Cooked apple filling freezes better than the raw fruit, so it is advisable to cook your apple mixture before adding into the crust.
- Allow the fruit to cool down: Allow the fruit filling to cool down, so that the steam escaping does not destroy the crust.
- Wrap the pie tightly: Wrap your apple pie with both plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Label and date the pie: Don’t forget to label your apple pie once it’s wrapped with a label that has the name of the pie, and the date.
Can You Freeze Apple Pie? The Surprising Answer and How To Do It Perfectly
Here’s the good news: apple pies can be successfully frozen! While some people may assume that pies cannot be frozen successfully, this is not the case. Apple pies freeze well and can be stored in the freezer for up to four months without losing their texture or taste. Here are the steps to follow when freezing your apple pies:
- First, ensure that the pie has cooled down to room temperature.
- Wrap the pie tightly with both plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Label the pie container or aluminum foil with the name and date of the pie, so you don’t forget what it is.
- Store the pie container in the freezer until it’s needed.
Apple Pie In The Freezer: Tips On How To Safely Store It For Longer
When storing an apple pie in the freezer, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure that it remains safe to eat when it’s time to thaw it out. Here are some safety tips for storing apple pie in the freezer:
- Keep the freezer at an appropriate temperature: Ensure the freezer is set at zero degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
- Avoid overcrowding: Ensure that the pie container doesn’t touch any other items in the freezer and is free from other things that could affect its quality while being stored.
- Thawing process: It is essential to defrost a frozen pie properly before baking it. Place it in the refrigerator overnight till it’s completely thawed.
Extend The Life Of Your Apple Pie: Here’s How To Store it In The Freezer
Proper storage is necessary for maintaining the quality of frozen apple pie.
- Wrapping: Wrap the pie in both plastic and aluminum foil.
- Labeling: Remember to label the pie container with the name of the pie and its date.
- Organizing in the freezer: Make sure the pie is stored flat and not arranged at an angle, so that the filling and crust don’t shift or alter.
Wondering If You Can Freeze Apple Pie? The Answers And Tips on How To Do It Right
Now that you know you can freeze apple pie, there are some additional tips and answers to common questions to make sure you do it correctly:
- Can you freeze homemade vs. store-bought apple pies? Yes, the instructions for freezing homemade and store-bought apple pies remain the same.
- How long can you keep frozen apple pie? Frozen apple pie should last up to four months.
Keep Your Apple Pie Fresh: Storing It In The Freezer the Right Way
There are certain things you can do to keep your apple pie tasting fresh even after freezing:
- Avoid freezer burn: Freezer burn occurs when a frozen item is exposed to air, so make sure the pie is wrapped tightly.
- Improper wrapping: Wrapping the pie with only plastic wrap can cause freezer burn to the crust, so it’s best to use aluminum foil along with plastic wrap.
- Reheating the pie: For the best results: Preheat the oven to 350°. Remove the plastic wrap and replace the aluminum foil. Place in the oven for 30-40 minutes to achieve a crispy crust, and you’re good to go.
Conclusion
Freezing apple pie is possible, and it can be done correctly with the proper preparation, storage, and thawing. By following the instructions provided in this article, you can extend the shelf life of your apple pies and enjoy them whenever you like.
