Can You Freeze a Glass Jar of Jelly?

Jams and jellies can be easily frozen.

Freezing jelly and jam is a great way to preserve summer flavors and enjoy them all year long. Follow the simple instructions below for prime results.

Freezing Instructions

Store jam and jelly in the freezer.

Freezing jelly or jam is as simple as packaging it and finding a spot in your freezer. It's best to freeze full jars of jam, so be sure to fill the container to about 1/2 inch from the top. This will decrease the amount of air in the jars and help prevent against freezer burn.

Considerations for Glass

Glass jars should be sturdy to withstand freezing.

Since jam doesn't dramatically expand as it freezes, it's safe to use sturdy, thick-sided glass jars. Plastic containers also work well.

Thawing

Thaw frozen jam and jelly gradually.

To thaw your frozen jelly or jam, place the container in the refrigerator until it thaws. You can also put the jar in warm water (not hot) and thaw it gently in the sink.

Precautions

Be sure to fill the containers up to 1/2 inch below the top of the container and no more. Overfilling can cause the container to burst due to air expansion during freezing.

Longevity

Frozen jelly or jam should be consumed within six months to one year after freezing. After a year, flavors will start to lose their character and intensity. The consistency of thawed jam may be softer and more watery than prior to freezing. Do not refreeze after thawing.

References

• National Center for Food Preservation: Freezing FAQs

Resources

• Center for Food Preservation: Freezing FAQs