How to Freeze Crumbled Cookies? +Tips

Crumbled cookies are a delightful addition to many desserts, such as ice cream sundaes, parfaits, and cheesecakes. Whether you have leftover cookies from a baking session or simply want to have a stash of crumbled cookies on hand for future creations, freezing them is an excellent way to preserve their freshness and flavor. By freezing crumbled cookies, you can extend their shelf life and ensure that they remain crispy and delicious. Whether you prefer chocolate chip, oatmeal, or shortbread cookies, freezing them allows you to have a versatile ingredient that can add a delightful crunch and sweetness to your culinary creations. So go ahead and freeze those crumbled cookies, and you’ll always have a convenient and scrumptious topping ready whenever you need it.

Here’s how you can freeze crumbled cookies:

Step 1. Let the crumbled cookies cool down completely to room temperature.

Allowing the crumbled cookies to cool down completely to room temperature before freezing is an important step to prevent moisture buildup inside the container or bag. When the cookies are still warm, they release steam which can create condensation inside the container or bag, leading to freezer burn and a change in texture and flavor of the cookies.

Therefore, it’s important to wait until the crumbled cookies have completely cooled down to room temperature before packing them for freezing. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the cookie pieces and the temperature of the room.

Once the crumbled cookies have cooled down, you can then transfer them to an airtight container or a plastic freezer bag for freezing. This will help to preserve the quality of the cookies and ensure that they taste fresh when you’re ready to use them.

Step 2. Place the crumbled cookies in an airtight container or a plastic freezer bag. 

When freezing crumbled cookies, it’s important to store them in an airtight container or a plastic freezer bag to prevent freezer burn and moisture buildup. Freezer burn occurs when moisture evaporates from the surface of the cookies, leaving them dehydrated and altering their texture and flavor. Moisture buildup, on the other hand, can cause the cookies to become soggy and unappetizing.

An airtight container or plastic freezer bag helps to keep the crumbled cookies fresh by preventing air and moisture from entering. This helps to maintain the cookies’ texture and flavor and keeps them from drying out or becoming freezer burnt.

When storing crumbled cookies in an airtight container or plastic freezer bag, make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing the container or bag. This can be done by pressing out the air and then sealing the container or bag tightly. Don’t forget to label the container or bag with the name of the cookies and the date you froze them to keep track of their freshness.

Step 3. Seal the container or bag tightly. 

When sealing the container or bag, make sure that there are no gaps or openings where air or moisture can enter. This will help to ensure that the crumbled cookies stay fresh and flavorful while they’re in the freezer.

Once the container or bag is tightly sealed, place it in the freezer and make sure it’s stored in a spot where it won’t get crushed or damaged by other items in the freezer. Label the container or bag with the name of the cookies and the date you froze them, so you can keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer and when they need to be used by.

If you’re using an airtight container, make sure to snap the lid securely in place. If you’re using a plastic freezer bag, gently press out any excess air before sealing the bag. You can also use a vacuum sealer to remove all the air from the bag before sealing it.

Step 4. Label the container or bag with the name of the cookies and the date.

Labeling the container or bag with the name of the cookies and the date you froze them is an important step when freezing crumbled cookies. This will help you keep track of the contents of the container or bag, and ensure that you use the cookies before they become freezer burnt or stale.

When labeling the container or bag, be sure to write the name of the cookies clearly, so you can easily identify them later. Also, include the date you froze the cookies, so you know how long they’ve been in the freezer. You can use a marker or a label to write this information on the container or bag.

By labeling the container or bag with the name and date, you’ll be able to quickly identify the crumbled cookies in the freezer and know when they need to be used by. This can help you avoid wasting food and ensure that the cookies are still fresh and flavorful when you’re ready to use them.

Step 5. Place the container or bag in the freezer.

When placing the container or bag in the freezer, make sure to put it in a spot where it will not be disturbed or crushed by other items in the freezer. If possible, place the container or bag on a flat surface, such as a shelf or a drawer, where it can freeze evenly without being tipped over.

It’s also important to make sure that the freezer temperature is set to 0°F (-18°C) or below. This will help to keep the crumbled cookies fresh and prevent freezer burn.

Once you’ve placed the container or bag in the freezer, avoid opening the freezer door unnecessarily. Every time you open the door, warm air enters the freezer, which can cause fluctuations in temperature and affect the quality of the cookies.

Finally, remember to check the freezer regularly to make sure that the container or bag of crumbled cookies is still in good condition and hasn’t been damaged or compromised in any way. If you notice any signs of freezer burn or moisture buildup, it may be time to use the cookies or discard them.

Can you freeze crumbled cookies with paper liners?

It’s not recommended to freeze crumbled cookies with paper liners because the liners can absorb moisture and affect the texture and flavor of the cookies. It’s best to remove the paper liners before freezing the cookies and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

How do you defrost frozen crumbled cookies?

To defrost frozen crumbled cookies, transfer them to the refrigerator and let them thaw for several hours or overnight. Once defrosted, let them come to room temperature before using. To make them crisp, spread them on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave for the best results.

Can you thaw frozen crumbled cookies in the fridge?

Yes, you can thaw frozen crumbled cookies in the fridge. Simply transfer them from the freezer to the fridge and let them thaw for several hours or overnight. Thawing in the fridge helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the cookies and is a safe method of thawing. Once thawed, the cookies can be reheated or used as desired.

Step 6. Use the frozen crumbled cookies within 3-4 months.

Frozen crumbled cookies can be stored in the freezer for several months, but for best quality, it’s recommended to use them within 3-4 months of freezing. After that time, the cookies may start to develop freezer burn, which can affect their texture and flavor.

Freezer burn occurs when moisture in the cookies evaporates and condenses on the surface, forming ice crystals. Over time, these ice crystals can cause the cookies to become dry and tough. While frozen crumbled cookies may still be safe to eat after 3-4 months, they may not taste as fresh or delicious as they did when they were first frozen.

To avoid freezer burn and ensure that the crumbled cookies are at their best quality, try to use them within 3-4 months of freezing. You can use frozen crumbled cookies in a variety of ways, such as adding them to ice cream, mixing them into cake batter, or sprinkling them on top of yogurt or oatmeal.

If you’re not sure how long the crumbled cookies have been in the freezer, or if they show signs of freezer burn or moisture buildup, it’s best to discard them and make a fresh batch.

How do you microwave frozen crumbled cookies? 

To microwave frozen crumbled cookies, place them in a microwave-safe bowl or plate and heat on a low or medium setting for 10-20 seconds at a time, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overheat or burn the cookies. Alternatively, you can defrost them in the refrigerator and then heat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes for a crisp texture.

Can you put frozen crumbled cookies in the toaster?

It is not recommended to put frozen crumbled cookies in the toaster as they can burn and cause a fire. It’s best to defrost them in the refrigerator or microwave and then reheat them in the oven for a crispy texture. Alternatively, you can enjoy them as a topping for ice cream, yogurt or oatmeal without reheating.

Other related questions 

How can I tell if crumbled cookies have gone bad?

There are a few signs that crumbled cookies may have gone bad. If they have been in the freezer for an extended period of time and are no longer within the recommended 3-4 month storage time, they may have freezer burn, which can cause a change in texture and flavor. If they have been thawed and have a rancid or off smell, this is a sign that they have spoiled and should not be eaten. Additionally, if there are any signs of mold or discoloration, the cookies should be discarded. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and throw away any crumbled cookies that appear to be spoiled.

Is it better to freeze or refrigerate crumbled cookies? 

It is better to freeze crumbled cookies because refrigeration can still cause the cookies to go stale or develop mold after a few days. Freezing them at the appropriate temperature and in airtight containers or bags can help maintain their freshness and prevent freezer burn. It’s important to label them with the date and use them within the recommended storage time for the best quality.

Does freezing crumbled cookies dry them out?

Freezing crumbled cookies can cause them to lose moisture and become dry, especially if they are not stored properly in an airtight container or freezer bag. However, if they are stored correctly, the moisture loss can be minimized, and they can still retain their flavor and texture when thawed. It’s important to use airtight containers or bags and avoid leaving any air gaps to prevent freezer burn and moisture loss.

Can you refreeze crumbled cookies?

It is not recommended to refreeze crumbled cookies once they have been thawed because it can lead to further moisture loss and compromise their texture and flavor. Additionally, refreezing can increase the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage. It’s best to thaw only the amount of cookies that you plan to use and avoid refreezing any leftovers.