Can You Freeze Milk? Yes, but Here's the Best Way to Do It
Milk is a versatile ingredient used in everything from cereal to baking, sauces and more. However, finishing an entire gallon or even a pint of milk before it goes bad can sometimes be challenging. According to the USDA, milk can be kept in the refrigerator for seven days. Luckily, there are options for preserving milk longer than that if you don't end up using it in time. Here's what you need to know about freezing milk, according to food scientists and culinary experts.
Related: 10 Best Dairy-Free Milk Options
Can milk be frozen and used later?
Milk can be frozen and used later, but there are some caveats to keep in mind. Though milk can last up to three months in the freezer, it's ideal to use it within that first month of freezing. After that, the texture of milk can become gritty, which may be unpleasant depending on how you plan on using it. It's also important to freeze milk using freezer-safe containers.
What is the best way to freeze milk?
When freezing milk, airtight plastic bags or containers are your best bet. "Glass bottles can break because of the expansion of the milk in the container unless there's sufficient headspace for the frozen milk to expand," explains food scientist Bryan Le, Ph.D. He also recommends placing the milk container in the back of the middle of the freezer, where the temperature will remain the most constant. "Changes in temperature and thaw cycles will decrease the quality significantly," Le explains.
Though it may seem most convenient to freeze milk in an unopened container like a carton or plastic jug, Melanie Marcus, RD, explains that having enough room for expansion is key to freezing milk successfully.
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Is it safe to freeze milk in plastic containers?
Using an air-tight plastic container is one of the most optimal ways to freeze milk, but leaving room at the top is important. "The best way to freeze milk is to pour it into a container, leave at least an inch of space at the top and secure the lid tightly," Marcus explains. "Shake the container gently to mix the fats throughout before placing it in the freezer."
Can you freeze milk in ice cube trays?
What if you just need a little bit of milk for your morning coffee or oatmeal? If that's the case, freezing milk in ice cube trays makes for a more convenient option. "It's best to first freeze the cubes and then transfer them into a plastic storage bag or freeze-safe container," says Le. "Otherwise, the surface of the milk will begin to experience freezer burn due to its high-fat content."
How do you thaw frozen milk?
The safest, most effective way to thaw milk is to do so in the refrigerator overnight, similar to how you'd thaw frozen ground beef. Though it may be tempting to thaw it out on a sunny countertop or even in a microwave, Marcus cautions against this due to the potential to thaw unevenly, causing clumps or even spoilage. "Once thawed, be sure to stir thoroughly to ensure that fat evenly distributes throughout the milk," she says. Use the thawed milk quickly, within three to four days.
Related: How To Quickly Defrost a Block of Ground Beef
Can you freeze almond, coconut and oat milk?
Marcus says the same principles apply when it comes to freezing plant-based milk substitutes such as oat milk or almond milk. "Ensure that the container is freezer-safe and has enough space for expansion," she says. As Le notes, milk substitutes vary in consistency, and some substitutes may experience more separation than others during the thawing process. "To bring the milk back to its original consistency, shake the container vigorously or blend the milk before using," Marcus recommends. If the milk's separation is still apparent, try putting it in a blender for a few seconds on the highest setting, then let it settle.
Can you freeze half and half?
Yes, you can freeze half and half using any of the same methods as milk. "With the higher fat content, the half and half will experience more separation between the water and fat phases," Le warns. Be sure to stir half and half before freezing. If you're planning to freeze half and half in an ice cube tray, be sure to transfer them to an airtight container or plastic bag as soon as they're frozen for the best results.