How to Use Unthawed Blueberries

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Blueberries are one of the only truly blue foods.

Frozen blueberries have the same nutritional benefits as fresh ones. To freeze blueberries, single layer them on a cookie sheet and place in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the berries to an airtight plastic bag and freeze. The blueberries you buy already frozen are IQF, or individually quick frozen, meaning they are flash frozen at very low temperatures to ensure they don't clump together. Many home cooks prefer baking with frozen versus fresh blueberries as fresh are more inclined to color leeching. Use frozen blueberries in pancakes, loaves, cakes and muffins. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 tbsp. flour, cornstarch or tapioca
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the blueberries from the freezer only when you're ready to use them. Frozen blueberries, as opposed to thawing blueberries, are less likely to break or split.

    • 2

      Coat frozen blueberries with a thin layer of flour or a starch -- such as cornstarch or tapioca -- before adding them to your batter. Add 1 tbsp. of all-purpose flour or starch per cup of frozen blueberries to a bowl, then add the berries. Toss the blueberries around in the bowl, ensuring complete coverage.

    • 3

      Fold frozen blueberries gently into the batter at the very end. Ideally, they will be the last ingredient you add. Do not over-mix, and be sure to bake immediately to prevent the color from leeching out.

Tips & Warnings

  • Blueberries turn reddish when mixed with acids, such as lemon juice or vinegar. They will turn greenish-blue in an alkaline environment, for example, if the batter has too much baking soda. Use these elements sparingly if you wish to preserve the vibrant blue color.

  • Refrozen blueberries are safe to eat, but the texture will be soggy.

  • Frozen blueberries usually come in a resealable bag. Keep the seal intact as long as possible, and reseal and refreeze immediately.

  • Blueberries have the highest concentration of antioxidants in the fruit and vegetable world. Antioxidants help protect against cancer and help delay the aging process.

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