Crème fraîche is a custard-like dairy product with high-fat content. It’s often used as an alternative to sour cream, and chefs also favor it for adding richness and depth of flavor to sauces, soups, and pasta dishes.
Once open, you can keep crème fraîche in the refrigerator for about a couple of days.
But what if you don’t plan on using it anytime soon?
Can you freeze crème fraîche?
Yes, you can freeze it, but it will lose some of its aroma and consistency.
Let me give you some more background on that.
What happens if you freeze crème fraîche?
Like said in the beginning, crème fraîche contains a lot of fat. Similar to any other fatty products, for instance, yogurt, coconut milk, or cream cheese, the fat will separate from the water after you thaw it. Your crème fraîche won’t look as nice as before freezing and you’ll taste it!
To be specific, it’ll become grainier and less smooth.
So, is it still safe to freeze crème fraîche?
Of course! It’s just not as good as before freezing, but freezing will extend the shelf life.
When you want to use frozen crème fraîche in cooking, there will be no noticeable difference once heated up.
How to freeze crème fraîche?
If you’re just not going to use your crème fraîche soon, there are two good ways that you can freeze it.
First, you can store it in an airtight container or freezer bags in the freezer. Make sure you leave room at the top for expansion. Also, try to remove all the air, so it will prevent freezer burn.
Another option is to freeze crème fraîche in ice cube trays. This is a good way to portion it if you’re using it for sauces or other cooking purposes that require little cream. After the cubes are frozen, just fill them into airtight containers or freezer bags.
With this option, the cubes also will not stick together, which makes it easier to take out just the amount you need.
Regardless of which option you choose, you’ll want to make sure that you have properly stored the crème fraîche. That’s why it’s important to keep it at a low temperature constantly and label containers with the date and contents.
How long can you freeze crème fraîche?
This is hard to tell because it will largely depend on how cold your freezer is, what kind of container you’re using, how much crème fraîche you’ve put in that particular container or bag, etc.
But as a general rule, try not to freeze it for more than a couple of weeks. After that, the quality will decrease significantly.
Can you freeze dishes with crème fraîche?
Dishes with Crème fraîche can be frozen as well, but the problems will remain the same as with the Crème fraîche itself.
It won’t look as nice, and it will be less tasty after thawing because of the fat separation.
But don’t let that discourage you from freezing your favorite dishes!
This is by far better than throwing it away. Besides, you can always add a little more flavor to soften the effect.
How to defrost or thaw crème fraîche
The best way to thaw frozen Crème fraîche or dishes with it is in the refrigerator.
If you want to use it for cooking, I would take it out of the freezer before cooking and just add the frozen Crème fraîche to the simmering sauce as is.
How can you tell that crème fraîche is not spoiled?
Crème fraîche is spoiled when it has an unpleasant sour odor and taste. It will also certainly look quite different. Especially if it is moldy.
Always remember that if it looks good, tastes good, and smells good, then you can be almost sure it’s safe to eat.
If you have doubts about the quality, I would recommend throwing it out.
It’s better to be on the safe side.
Conclusion
So in conclusion, yes, you can freeze crème fraîche but again for how long will depend on many factors mentioned earlier.
As a general rule, do not freeze it for more than a couple of weeks to prevent losing too much flavor and texture.
Defrost frozen crème fraîche in the refrigerator or let dishes with it thaw at room temperature so you won’t damage anything!
Last but not least, remember to always label your crème fraîche containers or bags with the date and content before you freeze it!
This way, you’ll know exactly what you have in your freezer without having to open everything.
As much as we would love our crème fraîche to be just perfect after being frozen, that will not happen, unfortunately.
But as mentioned earlier, this is by far better than throwing it away, so don’t let this deter you from freezing your favorite dish!
Keep calm and freeze on my friends.
FAQs
Can You Refreeze Crème Fraîche?
Refreezing crème fraîche is not a good idea. It will just make it even worse than after the first freeze cycle. It will lose more of its flavor, become even thicker and it may develop a sour or old taste.
So I’d recommend not to risk it. That’s why it is good to just take out the amount you need.
Can you freeze food like lasagne, soups, or quiche made with crème fraîche?
Yes, you can, but as mentioned earlier, the quality of such dishes may take a hit after they’ve been frozen and thawed.
You will lose some flavors, and the texture will be affected as well.
Whether it is a good idea for you personally to freeze these dishes with crème fraîche or not, it greatly depends on your personal preference and tolerance.
Regarding the shelf life of dishes in the freezer, however, the same applies as discussed above.
