How to Freeze a Pie
Updated: Nov. 03, 2020
Need a pie later? Learn how to freeze a pie with these simple steps.
Sometimes, baking for an event takes a bit of planning ahead. Here’s a look at how to freeze a homemade pie in advance—and how to bake it later.
Can You Freeze Pie?
Yes! You can absolutely freeze a pie to enjoy later. However, it’s important to know what types of pies freeze well and which pies should be enjoyed within a few days (or immediately after baking) and stored in the refrigerator.
Freezer-Friendly Pies
We find that fruit pies freeze the best. Find a recipe for cherry pie, apple pie, strawberry pie or blueberry pie and chances are, it will freeze well.
Pies That Don’t Freeze Well
Most custard-, mousse- and cream-based pies typically do not freeze well because the contents separate after thawing. That can create a soggy mess. Instead, these tasty pies can be eaten right away or safely stored in the refrigerator for about four days.
How to Freeze a Pie
Freezing food is simple, and pie is no exception. Follow these simple steps to make your labor of love ready for another day.
Step 1: Assemble
Put together the pie as if you were going to bake it in the oven.
Step 2: Wrap
Place the unbaked pie in the freezer, uncovered, until slightly firm, which will only take about 2-3 hours. Remove the pie from the freezer. Tightly wrap the frozen pie in 2 or 3 layers of plastic wrap, or enough for all sides to be completely covered. Then, place in a large freezer bag and seal it shut.
Step 3: Freeze
Return the wrapped pie to the freezer. For a fresh-tasting dessert, freeze the pie no longer than 2 months.
Editor’s Tip: Don’t forget to label the pie with a date and description!
How to Bake and Serve a Frozen Pie
It’s finally time to enjoy the pie you’ve been (im)patiently waiting to demolish!
Step 1: Prep
Remove the pie from the freezer. Carefully brush off any ice crystals if there are any. Brush the crust with egg wash. (To make egg wash, mix one cracked egg with 1/4 cup water.
Editor’s Tip: Do not thaw the pie, as this will result in a soggy crust and watery filling.
Step 2: Bake
Preheat the oven to the recipe’s specified temperature. Bake as instructed, adding at least 40 minutes to the normal baking time.
Step 3: Enjoy
Carefully remove the pie from the oven. To check if your pie is fully baked, insert a knife about 2 inches deep in the center, remove and carefully feel the temperature of the knife with your finger. Once it’s warm, your pie is ready to cut, serve and enjoy!
Up Next: How to Freeze a Cheesecake
Indulge in These Classic Pies
Apple PieWe recommend Granny Smith, Braeburn, Golden Delicious or Jonagold apples for this winning apple pie recipe. To keep the bottom of the pie from getting soggy, preheat the oven with a baking sheet already inside, then bake the pie on the warm baking sheet.
Citrus Cranberry PieIf you're new to pies, making a lattice pie crust might feel intimidating. But with a little patience and practice, your friends will think you're ready to open your own bakery.
Macaroon Cherry PieYou can find tart cherries at the farmers market for a few weeks every summer. If you see them, stock up to make this irresistibly delicious pie. The coconut and almond topping gives it a wonderful crunch.
Sour Cream Rhubarb PieLook for thin, red rhubarb stalks, then slice them into small pieces to use in this winning pie. If you've frozen some of your rhubarb to last into the winter, you can use that stash in this recipe.
Spiced Plum PieIn late summer and early fall, plums will be at their tastiest. Take advantage with this double-crust pie, which is filled with orange zest, spices and heaps of the seasonal fruit.
Dark Chocolate-Caramel Macchiato PieBelieve it or not, you can make a pie crust out of biscotti! This decadent dessert also contains coffee, so don't feel guilty if you want to eat a slice for breakfast.
Mixed Berry PieIf you don't have fresh berries on hand, you can also make this pie with frozen berries. They may even provide a better depth of flavor. You don't need to thaw them—just let the berries sit for a few minutes on the counter.
Spiced Upside-Down Apple PieWhile it might seem like common sense to wait until the pie cools down before inverting it onto a serving pan, don't wait too long. A cold pie will become difficult to remove from the pan.
Lemon Chess PieFor a light, tangy and refreshing dessert, we turn to this nine-ingredient chess pie, which features ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Get extra fancy and top it with candied orange slices.
Huckleberry Cheese PieFresh huckleberries are an Idaho treat, but even if you don't live in the Gem State, you might be able to find them frozen at your local grocery store. If not, blueberries make a delicious swap in this recipe.
Pumpkin Cheesecake PieIt's like pumpkin pie and cheesecake had a delicious baby. Don't skimp on the sour cream topping—it adds an extra tang that really brings the dessert together.
Oatmeal PieWhile it might be tempting to leave the leftovers on the counter overnight, it's best to put this pie in the fridge after it's been sitting at room temperature for about two hours. Be sure to eat the remaining slices within four days.
Originally Published: January 17, 2020
