How to Store Blackberries So They Don’t Get Mushy
Berries cost a pretty penny, so here’s how to maximize their longevity.
Laurence Berger/Getty Images
Berries are known for their delicious taste and nutrient density. Specifically, they’re a rich source of antioxidants and dietary fiber. There’s also tons of varieties to choose from—strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are a few popular types. While you can’t go wrong with any berry, blackberries have higher amounts of vitamins C and K, research shows. They have a fun purple hue, and they’re super sweet at peak ripeness, which is usually around the spring and summer months.
But like most fruits, blackberries can be tricky to store. The key to making your blackberries last longer is to choose and store them properly. If left out, they can develop mold, get mushy, and go bad. Berries aren’t exactly cheap, so be sure to buy and store them strategically so you can use and enjoy them. When buying fresh blackberries, look for signs of ripeness. Blackberries that have been picked won’t continue to ripen, and when they’re not ripe, they can taste sour. Avoid red-looking blackberries and stick to those with a dark purple, blue, or black color. They should look plump and juicy and feel tender. Surprisingly, ripe blackberries are matte or dull-looking, not shiny like you might expect.
Related: How to Store Mint So It Stays Fragrant and Fresh
With your ripe fruit in tow, here’s how to store blackberries once you get them home.
How to Store Blackberries in the Refrigerator
If you’re unsure how to store fruit, consider how it’s stored at the grocery store. Most grocery stores keep their berries in the refrigerated section of the produce aisle. In the case of blackberries, they’re done ripening once they’re harvested, so plucked blackberries are perishable. They won’t continue to ripen on your counter, which means they should go right into the refrigerator when you get home. The only time you should leave blackberries on the counter is if you plan on eating them the same or next day.
To store blackberries in the fridge, place them in the crisper or humidity drawer or your refrigerator. This drawer is designed to prolong the freshness of your food. When storing blackberries, make sure the drawer is set to low humidity. Blackberries need circulation, so you can keep them in the original container. If you transfer them to a different container, make sure it’s not airtight—air needs to be able to get in. There’s no need to wash your blackberries before refrigerating them because this can allow bacteria to grow and even cause the fruit to spoil faster. Instead, wash blackberries right before you plan to eat or cook with them.
How to Store Blackberries in the Freezer
Want your blackberries to last even longer? Make room in the freezer. Blackberries won’t last for forever in your fridge, but they can last indefinitely if frozen properly. Frozen fruit technically doesn’t expire, according to the USDA, but it may become less fresh as time goes on.
Related: How to Store Mint So It Stays Fragrant and Fresh
If your fresh blackberries are nearing their expiration and you won’t use them up before then, hope is not lost. Here’s how to freeze blackberries before they expire:
Thoroughly rinse the blackberries under running water.
Pat the berries dry.
Transfer the blackberries to a lined baking sheet. Arrange them in a single layer.
Place the baking sheet with the berries on it in the freezer for a few hours.
Once the berries are frozen solid, remove them from the freezer and transfer them to a freezer bag or freezer-safe container.
Return the blackberries to the freezer.
While fresh berries are great for snacking on or using as a topping for yogurt, cereal, and oatmeal, frozen berries are just as versatile. Use them in fruit smoothies, ice creams, and sorbets. You can also incorporate them into overnight oat recipes, or turn them into a compote, jam, or sauce.
If your heart desires fresh berries but all you have is frozen blackberries, transfer them to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. You can also microwave them to defrost them quickly. Previously frozen and thawed blackberries will have a slightly different texture, but they’ll still have the same taste and nutrition profile.
How Long Do Blackberries Last?
The lifespan of blackberries depends largely on how you store them. Here’s how long blackberries last:
On the counter: Up to 1 day
In the refrigerator: Up to 7 days
In the freezer: Indefinitely
Related: How to Store Avocados So They Stay Fresh for as Long as Possible
When stored properly in the fridge, blackberries can last up to a week. For the longest window of time, keep blackberries in the freezer. Though it’s not recommended for long periods of time, you can keep blackberries on the counter for up to a day if you plan on using them right away.
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