How to Freeze Oranges
Freezing oranges is an easy and convenient way to preserve this vitamin C-packed fruit for smoothies, snacks, and recipes. By freezing orange slices, wedges, or segments, you can enjoy the refreshing taste of oranges year-round.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Freezer-safe bags or airtight containers
- Marker (for labeling)
Ingredients
- Fresh oranges - as many as you'd like
Instructions
Prepare the Oranges:
- Wash the oranges thoroughly under cold water. Dry them completely with a towel.
Peel, Slice, Zest, or Juice the Oranges:
- Option 1 (Segments): Peel the oranges and separate them into individual segments. Remove any seeds and excess pith.
- Option 2 (Slices or Wedges): If you prefer to freeze the oranges with the peel on, slice them into wedges or rounds.
- Option 3 (Juice): Juice orange using preferred juicing method. Strain juice through a fine-mesh strainer (optional), then pour into ice cube trays.
- Option 4 (Orange Zest): Use a grater or zester to remove the colored part of the peel. Spread the zest on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Prepare for Freezing:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place the orange segments, slices, or wedges in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they don’t touch each other. This will prevent them from sticking together during freezing.
Freeze the Oranges:
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 2-3 hours, or until the oranges are frozen solid. With the orange juice leave some space at the top for the juice to expand as it freezes.
Store the Oranges:
- Once frozen, transfer the oranges into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. Label the bags or containers with the date, and store them in the freezer. Frozen oranges can last for up to 6 months.
Notes
Storing: According to the USDA, fruit can be frozen for up to 8 to 12 months.
Tips - This method can be used for most citrus fruits like lemons and limes.
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as courtesy. Values may vary according to the ingredients used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed and personalised calculations.