Does Apple Pie Freeze Well?

Apple pie is a treasured nostalgic treat that has put smiles on millions of faces for many years. If you enjoy baking your own apple pies, we have thoroughly researched how to freeze apple pie and have some excellent advice to share with you. Having a well-stocked freezer will always be in style!

Yes, apple pie freezes very well. To ensure that the pie will freeze, be sure to use a recipe that utilizes sugar. Sugar-free apple pie recipes do not freeze well because sugar works as a natural food preservative. One could freeze the pie before or after baking depending on the situation. Wrap the pie tightly in aluminum or saran wrap, place in a large freezer Ziploc bag, and place in the freezer. 

Are you interested in learning more about apple pies and how to preserve them best? Curious about tips and tricks to extend the life of your bakery goods via freezing? Please continue reading to learn more about freezing apple pies!

Lattice apple pie with apples on the table, Does Apple Pie Freeze Well?

Is it better to freeze an apple pie before or after baking?

It is advisable to freeze the apple pie before baking. There are several reasons why this choice is better for a tasty final result. Firstly, the crust will bake more evenly and retain a flaky consistency. Secondly, the apples will be crisper than if frozen first and baked second.

Pies are much soggier with diminished flavors when baked, frozen, and reheated.  Also, by baking after freezing, you will save more energy by heating the oven one time versus baking it twice.

Can homemade apple pie be frozen?

Absolutely. Homemade apple pies freeze well and will help ensure that you are always ready for last-minute guests with a dessert option that will put a smile on their faces! For successful freezing, the pie filling must have sugar; without the natural preservative, the pie will not keep in the freezer. The process for freezing a homemade apple pie is detailed below.

Classic American apple pie

What is the best way to freeze an apple pie?

Based on culinary research, the best way to freeze an apple pie is unbaked. To start the process,  follow the apple pie recipe and then place the pie on a freezer-safe pie plate. Next, wrap the pie three times with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Or wrap twice with plastic and use aluminum foil over those layers for extra security.

Place the wrapped pie into a freezer bag and remove any excess air.  Set the pie in the freezer as level as possible. It will take about 24 hours to freeze fully. Once fully frozen, store in the coldest section of the freezer. The pie will last up to two months in the freezer.

Do not brush the pie with an egg wash or sprinkle with sugar before freezing. Only complete those additional steps when you are preparing to bake the pie at a later date.

How do you reheat a frozen apple pie?

For an unbaked pie,  preheat the oven to 450 degrees.  Do not remove the pie from the freezer before the oven is done preheating.  The pie should transfer directly from the freezer to the oven. Any time spent thawing will cause the pie to become soggy.

Remove all plastic and place on the center rack, and bake for 25 minutes. Then reduce heat to 375 degrees for another 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are steamy hot, and soft when poked with a fork. Enjoy!

To reheat a baked pie. Take the pie out of the freezer, remove all wrappings and allow the pie to thaw at room temperature. Thawing apple pies requires approximately three hours.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake the pie uncovered until warm or desired temperature. Serve solo or with vanilla ice cream.

How do you freeze an unbaked apple pie?

According to Pillsbury, follow the apple pie recipe as directed. Then place the unbaked pie on an aluminum or freezer-safe pie plate. Then tightly wrap the pie with three layers of plastic wrap.

Next, place the pie in a freezer bag that is large enough to accommodate the pie without leaving room for air pockets. Carefully squeeze the air out of the bag without damaging the pie and place it in the freezer. The pie should last up to two months in the freezer.

Click here to see a freezer-safe pie plate at Amazon.

Helpful tips for freezing pies

  • Write the date the pie was made and the expiration date on the freezer bag.
  • Only apply egg-wash and sugar, and spice sprinkles a few minutes before baking.
  • Wipe the bottom of the pie plate to avoid freezing the pie with debris attached.
  • Place a cookie sheet under the pie while baking to catch any drips.
  • If the crust is browning too quickly, place a crust cover made from aluminum foil over the top of the pie for protection.

Suggestions for baking pies that freeze well

To ensure creating the tastiest pies possible, here are a few tips to help you achieve that goal. Always use the freshest apples possible—the fresher the apple, the better the flavor. Use a medley of sweet and tart. Using a variety of apple flavors will eventuate to a more balanced apple pie. Granny Smith and Jonagold are pretty tart and contrast well with the sweeter varieties such as Gala, Honey Crisp, and Pink Lady.

Thoroughly peel each one and avoid leaving any bits of skin on the apples. Those will diminish the sweetness of the apple, and peels do not freeze well. Peeling before coring and chopping makes the job a tad easier. Better Homes and Gardens suggestions using Fruit-Fresh to help preserve the color of the apples and retain antioxidants within the fruit. Follow as directed for best results.

Click here to view Fruit-Fresh at Amazon.

Prepare the filling comprised of sugars and spice. Mix the chopped apples in and stir until the apples are completely coated. Not only will the apples taste sweeter, but the sugar will also preserve the apples and lock in their crisp flavor. Don't pour the apples into the pie crust. Layer them by hand. By doing so will prevent air pockets, and the pie will freeze and bake evenly.

Always ensure your oven is clean before baking your wholesome pies. Baking pastries in a dirty oven will negatively affect the taste of the pie. The burned debris will slightly smoke, and the pie will absorb those nasty carbon-based fumes.

Food safety considerations

Avoid using egg-wash for vegans or allergy-prone people. For an alternative to a traditional egg wash, use a fruit-based glaze, dairy-free yogurt, or maple syrup. If one uses a pre-made crust, be sure to purchase the vegan version and read the label for possible allergens.

For those with gluten allergies and sensitivities, use a gluten-free pie crust recipe or purchase one. Beware. That gluten-free does not guarantee it is egg or dairy-free. Always read ingredient lists carefully.

In Closing

Baking apple pies and freezing them is a budget-conscious and fun way to preserve your culinary efforts. Plus, having an ample supply of homemade comfort stored foods in your home does provide a feeling of accomplishment for heart and soul.  Please be sure to visit Kitchenseer.com soon for more culinary content and further develop your baking skills!

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