Can You Freeze Milk?

Before it hits the expiration date, get that milk in the freezer.

Growing up in a family of seven, a container of milk never lasted long enough in our refrigerator to reach the expiration date. That's because my mother knew you could freeze milk.

Long before wholesale clubs such as Sam's and Costco, she made monthly grocery runs to the nearest military commissary, buying and then freezing bulk quantities of staples such as bread, meat, and milk—lots and lots of milk. Milk is just too expensive to waste, so put your freezer to good use and avoid pouring money down the drain.

Here are some helpful things you should know before freezing milk.

How To Freeze Milk

Freezing milk is easy. Just be sure to do it before the expiration date.

1. Leave headspace

Milk will expand when frozen and, if there isn't enough headspace, may cause the container to split. That's why it's not a good idea to freeze milk in its original container or jug.

2. Transfer to an airtight container

If you have leftover milk in a carton, pour it into a plastic freezer-safe container with a lid and freeze. You can also freeze milk in freezer safe bags. If you find you have an entire gallon to freeze, it is best to divide it into two to three smaller containers.

3. For small amounts, use ice cube trays

The standard tray usually holds one ounce, or two tablespoons, in each well, so when you are making a recipe that calls for a small amount of milk, a milk cube may do the trick.

Can you freeze non-dairy milk?

Most nut, oat, and soy milk producers don't recommend freezing their products. You can still freeze them if you like, but they are likely to be grainy and separated when defrosted. The milk can still be good for smoothies and some cooked applications, but won't be ideal for enjoying on its own.

How Long Does Frozen Milk Last?

You can safely store frozen milk in your freezer for up to six months, but for best quality, try to use it within one month of freezing. Once thawed, consume or use the milk within two to three days. If you notice any signs of spoilage after thawing, like a sour taste or rancid odors, it's best to toss the milk out.

Related: What's The Longest You Can Keep Food In The Freezer?

How To Thaw Frozen Milk

As when thawing any frozen food, do not thaw milk at room temperature. This places the milk in the temperate danger zone, where harmful foodborne bacteria can rapidly multiply. Try one of these food-safe methods instead:

1. In the fridge

The best way to defrost frozen milk is to place the container on a plate (to collect any condensation when thawing) and put it in the refrigerator to slowly thaw.

If you are thawing frozen milk cubes, set them in a container with a lid (such as a mason jar) and let them defrost in the refrigerator, then shake well to blend. Depending on the size of the container, it may take a day or longer to defrost.

Milk, like other dairy products, may separate and develop a grainy texture when frozen. However, this does not alter the quality of the milk. To restore some smoothness, simply shake vigorously before using.

2. In water

If you need to defrost milk in a rush, you can place the frozen (airtight) container of milk in a bowl of cold water in the fridge, and change out the water every 30 minutes. This will help speed things up.

3. In the microwave

If you're really in a pinch, you can use the microwave to thaw milk. Zap it in a microwave-safe container in 15-second increments until thawed throughout. You should then use the milk immediately.

Related: 51 Easy Freezer Recipes That Reheat Beautifully

How To Use Thawed Milk

Frozen and defrosted milk is safe to drink and can be used for cooking and baking. Thawed milk may look separated or have a grainy texture. This is because the fat separates during freezing; the higher the fat content, the more you're likely to notice this. Because of the lower fat content, low-fat and skim milk tend to freeze a little better than whole milk.

Thawed milk may also have a slushy texture. To restore smoothness after thawing, simply shake or run the milk through a blender to help smooth it out. Thawed milk is best used in baking projects, sauces, and other cooked applications. It's less ideal enjoyed on its own in a glass or bowl of cereal.

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