Can You Freeze Milk?
Yes, you can freeze milk safely for up to 3-6 months. The texture may change slightly after thawing, making it better suited for cooking and baking than drinking straight, though many people find thawed milk acceptable for general use.
Key Takeaways
- Milk freezes safely and retains its nutritional value.
- Skim milk freezes with less texture change than whole milk due to lower fat content.
- Plant-based milks vary in how well they freeze; oat and soy milk generally freeze better than almond milk.
Explanation
Milk freezes safely and retains its nutritional value. The fat in milk may separate during freezing, causing a slightly grainy texture after thawing. This is normal and can be minimized by shaking the container well after thawing.
Before freezing, pour off a small amount from the container to allow for expansion, as milk expands when frozen. Alternatively, freeze milk in ice cube trays for convenient portions to add to smoothies or recipes.
Thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator overnight rather than at room temperature. Use thawed milk within 3-4 days for best quality. Thawed milk works excellently in baked goods, soups, sauces, and smoothies.
Things to Know
- Skim milk freezes with less texture change than whole milk due to lower fat content.
- Plant-based milks vary in how well they freeze; oat and soy milk generally freeze better than almond milk.
- Do not refreeze milk once thawed.