Can You Freeze Cheese? A Guide to Freezing Different Types

Freezing cheese might seem counterintuitive, but it’s a surprisingly effective way to extend its shelf life, especially if you have a large block or are dealing with cheese nearing its expiration date. However, not all cheeses freeze equally well. This guide will explore the best practices and considerations for freezing various types of cheese.

Which Cheeses Freeze Well?

Hard cheeses generally freeze best, retaining their texture and flavor better than softer varieties. These include:

• Cheddar: Freezing cheddar is common and often results in minimal changes to its quality. It’s best grated before freezing.
• Parmesan: Hard parmesan, especially the aged kind, freezes exceptionally well. Grate it before freezing for easier use later.
• Swiss: Similar to cheddar, Swiss cheese retains its texture reasonably well when frozen.
• Asiago: This firm Italian cheese freezes well, though it might become slightly crumbly upon thawing.
• Provolone: Hard provolone varieties hold up well during freezing.

Cheeses to Avoid Freezing (or Freeze with Caution)

Some cheeses are simply not suited to freezing. Their texture and flavor will likely be significantly altered, often for the worse. These include:

• Soft cheeses: Cream cheese, ricotta, feta, Brie, and Camembert tend to become grainy and separate upon thawing. The texture will be ruined.
• Fresh cheeses: Mozzarella (fresh), cottage cheese, and similar fresh cheeses are best consumed fresh, as freezing dramatically changes their consistency.
• Processed cheeses: Processed cheese slices or spreads usually don’t freeze well due to their high moisture content.

How to Freeze Cheese Properly

The key to successful cheese freezing is proper preparation and storage. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prep the cheese: For hard cheeses, grate or shred them before freezing. This increases surface area, allowing for faster and more even freezing. This also makes it easier to use thawed cheese for cooking. For softer cheeses that you must freeze (accepting the texture change), consider wrapping small portions individually.
2. Wrap tightly: Use airtight freezer bags or heavy-duty aluminum foil to wrap your cheese. Ensure there’s no air trapped inside, as this can lead to freezer burn. Multiple layers of protection are beneficial. Consider using a vacuum sealer if you have one.
3. Label and date: Always label your cheese with the type and date of freezing. This helps you track how long it’s been stored and avoid consuming cheese that has been frozen for too long.
4. Freeze promptly: Freeze cheese as soon as possible to minimize quality degradation.

Thawing and Using Frozen Cheese

When ready to use your frozen cheese, thaw it gradually in the refrigerator. This helps prevent the cheese from becoming excessively wet or mushy. Don’t thaw it at room temperature. Once thawed, use the cheese promptly, as its quality will continue to diminish. Frozen cheese is best used in cooked dishes, where any texture changes may be less noticeable.

Conclusion

Freezing cheese can be a practical method for extending its shelf life, but the success depends largely on the type of cheese and the freezing process. By following these guidelines, you can minimize quality loss and enjoy your cheese long after its purchase date. Remember to always prioritize using fresh cheese whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. However, for hard cheeses, freezing can be a valuable tool in your culinary arsenal.