The answer is yes, and it’s actually really easy! Goat cheese freezes great and can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. This means you’ll never have to worry about running out of delicious goat cheese when cooking. Read on for some tips on how to freeze it properly!
It’s a simple process that anyone can do at home, but there are a couple of extra steps you’ll have to take if you want your cheese to freeze well.
Is it a good idea to freeze it?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to freeze goat cheese, let’s talk about whether it’s a good idea to do so. Freezing goat cheese can help keep it fresh for longer. If you’re planning on purchasing some, it really doesn’t hurt to grab an extra log/packet and throw it in the freezer. The freezing process prevents the growth of bacteria and preserves the cheese’s freshness.
But, you might wonder—will freezing make your cheese taste different? If not stored correctly, it will most definitely change the flavor. Properly stored in a freezer at 0°F or lower, however, the cheese should hold on to its original flavor and texture pretty close. At least for some time.
Here are some pros and cons of freezing goat cheese:
Pros
Freezing your cheese will extend its shelf life significantly.
You have something at hand quickly if you need it.
Cons
When thawed out, the texture of your cheese may feel grainy or waxy- this is normal for some cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta, which become crunchy when frozen.
If improperly stored, your cheese can absorb odors from other foods in the freezer.
Flavor can also alter depending on how long it’s been frozen.
How To Freeze Goat Cheese
If you have some cheese that you don’t want to waste, freezing it is the perfect way to save it for later.
Here is how you can do it:
- If you want to freeze goat cheese, wrap the goat cheese tightly in plastic wrap and place it inside a freezer bag or airtight container.
- When using a freezer bag, squeeze out as much air as possible to ensure the cheese doesn’t get freezer burn.
- Be sure to label your bag with the date and any other relevant information.
- If a recipe calls for frozen goat cheese, remove it from the freezer about an hour before you’re going to use it.
Similar to freezing parmesan cheese, you can also freeze a block of goat cheese if you prefer. The problem is though that is harder to portion.
Another good way to freeze goat cheese is by grating it first. To avoid that the shredded pieces are sticking together, you can pre-freeze it by spreading it over a baking sheet or something similar and putting it in the freezer for some hours.
When the cheese is frozen, just transfer it to a freezer bag or container.
Check this guide for more information on freezing shredded cheese.
Note: Do not refreeze any goat cheese that has already been defrosted or it might become unsafe.
How Long will Goat Cheese Last in the Freezer?
If stored properly in the freezer, then it should last for a couple of months.
But be aware that the longer you freeze it, the more it will change its texture and flavor.
That’s why I recommend freezing it for no longer than a month or two.
Best Ways to Thaw Goat Cheese
There are several options for thawing.
The best way, in my opinion, is by leaving it in the fridge overnight. That way, it can slowly thaw and maintain its flavor.
You can also do it by placing it on your kitchen counter for about 2 hours. But be aware that this method may cause your cheese to become very soft, so it might not work well with recipes that require grated.
If you want to speed up the process, place it in a bowl with cold or lukewarm water.
Need Some Inspiration for What to do With Your Goat Cheese?
Now that you know how to freeze goat cheese, here are some popular ways to use it:
Quinoa Salad with Chicken and Goat Cheese
The goat cheese combined with quinoa and grilled chicken makes this a hearty lunchtime meal. Plus, if you have some fresh or frozen cantaloupe, this is a fruity addition you don’t want to miss.
Quesadillas wraps made with goat cheese, tomato and fresh herbs
Easy to make recipe with goat cheese and tomatoes, perfect for a light lunch or snack.
FAQs
Can You Freeze Goat Cheese Spread?
Yes, you can! Just remember to wrap it in a layer of wax paper before covering in a freezer bag. Freezing the spread might change its texture a bit, but will not it affect the taste.
Can You Freeze Goat Cheese with Cranberries?
I recommend freezing it without the cranberries first, then adding them just before using. This way they won’t get frozen together, which would make both ingredients mushy when you defrost it.
Can You Freeze Cheesecake?
Yes, but remember to wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap first. You don’t want the slices sticking together once you’ve thawed it.
Can Goat Cheese get Freezer Burn?
If not stored properly, then yes – goat cheese may get freezer burn.
Make sure to wrap it in a layer of plastic or foil and avoid putting anything else on top of it.
Can You Freeze Goat Cheese Dip?
Yes, you can! Just prepare it in an airtight container or a freezer bag first.
Can You Freeze Goat Cheese Sauce?
Yes, that’s also possible! In the same way as with goat cheese dip – just prepare it in an airtight container or a freezer bag first.
You should also consider freezing it in smaller portions so that you have more options when using it later.
Is Freezing Goat Cheese a Good Option?
Freezing goat cheese can be a good option to make it last longer.
As long as you prepare it properly, then you can extend its shelf life for several months. The flavor will change slightly, though. But that also happens when you freeze cottage cheese or other kinds.
I hope I could shed some light on how you can freeze goat cheese and give you some inspiration for recipes to go with it.
If you have questions or other tips, make sure to leave a comment below.
If you found this article useful, I would really appreciate it if you share it with your friends!
Good luck and enjoy the frozen goat cheese!
