How to freeze leftover mint leaves for desserts

Freezing mint keeps its flavor for desserts and drinks instead of letting it wilt in the fridge. This guide suits anyone with a bunch of mint left over after cooking. You only need fresh mint, a knife, an ice cube tray and a freezer.

How to Freeze Leftover Mint Leaves for Desserts : Home Cooking & Kitchen Skills, by cookingguide on YouTube. 2 min 3 s.

Video length
2 min 3 s
Time to do it
15 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
7

What you need

Steps

  1. Pick the leaves off the stems and discard any bruised or brown ones. Rinse the leaves under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel.

  2. Chop the mint finely with a sharp knife. Keep the pieces small so they freeze evenly and blend into desserts.

  3. Fill each ice cube tray cup about two thirds full with chopped mint. Pack it loosely so the leaves do not clump together.

  4. Top each cup with water or simple syrup until the mint is just covered. Water works fine, but syrup keeps the color brighter.

  5. Place the tray flat in the freezer and leave it for 3 to 4 hours, until the cubes are solid.

  6. Pop the frozen cubes out of the tray and put them in a labeled freezer bag. Squeeze out the air and seal it.

  7. Store the bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. Drop a cube straight into a dessert or drink when you need mint.

Tips and common mistakes

Dry the leaves well before chopping, since extra water makes icy clumps.

Label the bag with the date so you use the oldest mint first.

Freeze whole leaves on a baking sheet first if you want loose leaves rather than cubes.

Questions

Can I freeze mint without water?

Yes. Spread dry whole leaves on a baking sheet, freeze for an hour, then bag them. They work well in cooked desserts but go limp when thawed.

How long does frozen mint last?

About 3 months in a sealed freezer bag. After that the flavor fades and the leaves may pick up freezer smells.

Can I use frozen mint in fresh salads?

No, freezing softens the leaves. Use frozen mint in cooked desserts, syrups, teas or blended drinks instead.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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