Can You Freeze Apples?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against USDA FoodKeeper · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes, for up to 8 months — FoodKeeper's figure applies to cooked apple (stewed, sauce or pie filling); raw slices freeze but go soft.
What freezing does to apples
Raw apple slices turn brown and soft in the freezer. FoodKeeper's 8-month figure applies to cooked apple, which holds up far better, so stew or bake apples first. FoodKeeper gives apples a best-quality freezer window of 8 months. For comparison, the same database gives strawberries 8–12 months, bananas 2–3 months, grapes 1 month.
You can also check the calorie content of apples alongside their safety information.
As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.
Freezer kit
Freezer labels & pen
Date every bag going in — future you will actually use what's in there.
Check Price →Airtight freezer containers
Stackable, airtight and reusable — the tidy-freezer starter kit.
Check Price →Links open your local Amazon store. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
More freezer essentials
Apples next to similar foods
| Food | Freezer window |
|---|---|
| Peppers | 6–8 months |
| Apples | 8 months |
| Strawberries | 8–12 months |
| Broccoli | 10–12 months |
| Carrots | 10–12 months |
Of the 16 fruit and vegetable foods in the freezing guide, apples have a best-quality window that is longer than 9 and shorter than 6.
Apples: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Safe — wash first |
| In the fridge | 4–6 weeks in the fridge; 3 weeks in the cupboard |
Common questions
How long can you freeze apples?
For best quality, up to 8 months (USDA FoodKeeper). It stays safe beyond that, because bacteria cannot grow at a constant -18°C; the time limit is about taste and texture, not safety. Label the pack with the date so you can use the oldest first.
How should I freeze apples?
Wash, dry and prepare it first (hull, slice or halve), spread on a tray in a single layer until solid, then bag it. That way it stays loose and you can use what you need.
How do I defrost apples?
Many uses need no defrosting; blend from frozen or add frozen to baking. To thaw, leave in the fridge in a bowl to catch the juice.
Can you refreeze apples?
Not recommended; the fruit will go to mush.
Fridge or freezer for apples?
The fridge window for apples is 4–6 weeks (USDA FoodKeeper). If you are not going to finish it inside that window, freeze it while it is still fresh, ideally in the first day or two, since freezing only pauses the clock and anything frozen late goes in with less life left.
Related answers
Primary source: USDA FoodKeeper.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.