It may seem impossible, but if you have any leftover cranberry sauce after Thanksgiving (or other occasion), you might wonder what to do with it. Can you freeze cranberry sauce, or is it best kept in the fridge? We answer this question and share the best way to store cranberry sauce—whether homemade or canned.
How Long to Keep Cranberry Sauce
Whether homemade or from a can, cranberry sauce lasts in the fridge for about two weeks as long as you store it in a covered container. During those weeks, take advantage and slather that cranberry sauce on leftover turkey sandwiches, stir it into yogurt and ice cream, and spread it onto pancakes or peanut butter sandwiches. After that time, if you have any cranberry sauce left (doubtful!), it’s time to think about freezing it.
Can You Freeze Cranberry Sauce?
Homemade
Yes, you can freeze homemade cranberry sauce—and it works well. It's best to store it in the freezer for up to 3 months; the taste may be affected due to its water content if frozen longer. Keep this in mind when putting away your leftover sauce and use it during this optimal period as part of an easy weeknight dinner.
Canned
While canned cranberry sauce can technically be frozen, it's best not to. Unlike its homemade counterpart, canned cranberry sauce doesn't freeze or defrost very well. The jellied texture changes after freezing, becoming more watery. Even the leading authority on canned cranberry sauce, Ocean Spray, agrees that freezing canned cranberry sauce is not recommended.
How to Freeze Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Follow these steps for freezing your homemade cranberry sauce.
Let Sauce Cool
It's important to let the cranberry sauce cool. Freezing it hot may affect your freezer's overall temperature.
Use an Airtight Container or Bag
Pour the cooled sauce into an airtight container or freezer-safe plastic bag. This will help prevent freezer burn.
Label Before Freezing
Remove air from the bag and seal. Then, be sure to label it with the date you freeze it so you know how long it will last.
You can also freeze cranberry sauce in smaller portions by pouring it into silicone ice molds. After freezing the tray and the sauce completely freezes, place the individual cranberry sauce cubes in a freezer-safe plastic bag.
How to Freeze Canned Cranberry Sauce
Though not recommended, if you really want to freeze canned cranberry sauce, simply follow the outlined steps above. But be warned: It should be used within a few weeks of freezing it. The sooner you use the frozen canned cranberry sauce, the better.
How to Thaw Frozen Cranberry Sauce
To defrost or thaw your frozen cranberry sauce, let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. You could also reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Be sure to stir it well before serving.
If you prefer to use your sauce on the spot and don't have time to wait overnight, you can thaw and reheat it on the stove. First, microwave it to soften it up. Alternatively, you can place the container in a bowl filled with hot water to thaw before reheating.
Benefits of Freezing Cranberry Sauce
Freezing your cranberry sauce has benefits. For starters, you'll be able to enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers for months after the holiday. Since freezing maintains the sauce's original taste, you'll love adding the classic cranberry flavor to everyday meals. You can also create more space in your refrigerator by freezing food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat year-old cranberry sauce?
If unopened and stored in a cool pantry, canned cranberry sauce will keep for a year after its best-by date. It should taste fairly good, too, and it's safe to eat. The date on the can is for the quality, not a safety expiration date.
Can you freeze sauce in zip-top plastic bags?
Resealable freezer-safe bags are great for storing sauces or other liquids in the freezer. They stack well, taking up less freezer space, and are inexpensive.
Are mason jars freezer-safe for storing cranberry sauce?
Glass jars are perfect for freezing liquids like soups and sauces. They're airtight and help prevent freezer burn. However, not all glass jars are freezer-safe; those with straight sides are safe, while shouldered jars are not.
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