While the summer months may be peak blueberry season, following the steps to keep blueberries fresh will allow you to enjoy them well into the fall. Washing blueberries, the correct way, as well as storing them in mason jars or glass containers, will extend their shelf life to 6-8 weeks! This allows you to enjoy fresh blueberries for months.
Steps to Keep Blueberries Fresh
It only takes a few minutes to follow the steps to properly wash, dry, and store your blueberries. This small amount of time is worth it in order to reduce your food waste and ensure that they are fresh for weeks!
Washing Blueberries
- The first step in washing blueberries is to fill a large bowl with water, putting in the blueberries, and adding ¼ cup 5% distilled white vinegar.
- Then you will set a timer for two minutes and allow the blueberries to soak in the vinegar rinse.
- After that time you can drain the blueberries in a colander and give them a quick rinse. The rinse will remove any debris left behind from washing such as leaves, stems, etc.
- Once they are rinsed you will lay the blueberries out to dry in a single layer on a cloth towel. This large Turkish towel is the one that I use which provides plenty of space for drying on the counter. Let them lay out for several hours until they are bone dry.
Storing Blueberries in Mason Jars
After the blueberries have dried for a few hours, they are ready to be put away. I prefer putting them in mason jars and then the blueberries in mason jars should be stored in the fridge. You can use a jar with a metal or plastic lid for blueberries, as well as any other type of berries in a jar.
A paper towel should be placed at the bottom of the mason jar in order to collect any excess moisture. As long as you follow my instructions, a little bit of condensation in the jar is okay. You can hear more about that in this video, Storing Berries in Jars, as well as what I recommend you do in that situation.
If you have other questions about strawberries in a jar or storing berries, be sure to check out the Berries FAQ page.
Freezing Blueberries
If you want to be able to enjoy your fresh blueberries for even longer, you can freeze them. Berries will last a year in a freezer safe bag such as this Stasher Bag. If you vacuum seal them, they will last for 2-3 years! In order to freeze blueberries, first follow the washing and drying instructions listed above. Once they are bone dry, lay them out on a tray in a single layer and place this in the freezer. This allows each berry to freeze individually. Once they are frozen, you can place them into the resealable bag or vacuum seal them.
Blueberry Peach Crisp
If you are looking for a delicious dessert to make with your fresh blueberries try this Peach Blueberry Crisp. You can use fresh, canned, or frozen fruit so it is perfect to adapt with whatever you have on hand. If you make it in the off season, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of summer with this dessert anytime!
If you want to learn about how to wash and store other fruits besides blueberries so that you can enjoy them all throughout the year, check out my new book. The Zero Waste Produce Guide has directions for washing and storing 75 produce items! It also includes recipe inspiration, fridge organization tips, and so much more. Cantaloupe is also included in that book.
Watch How I Keep Blueberries Fresh
My YouTube channel has over 300 videos including the one below on washing blueberries and the steps to store them in mason jars and keep them fresh! Check it out if you enjoy seeing the step-by-step directions.
This post may contain affiliate links. This means if you purchase through my links, I receive a small commission at no cost to you. For more information, please read my Disclaimer
Leave a Comment