Change up your morning routine with this unique way to get your caffeine fix.
Like many folks, I fuel my day with asteady caffeine drip.
What exactly is the best method for that?
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Rebecca Cummins
Coffee beans can last forabout a yearif left in its sealed packaging.
However, once that bag is open, you only have a few weeks before your coffee stales.
Once brewed, coffee’s shelf life is even shorter.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Rebecca Cummins
Brewed coffee can be kept in the fridge for three to four days in a sealed, airtight container.
But what should you do if you do have too much extra coffee?
While it’s not the most advisable method, you might store coffee in the freezer.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Here’s what it’s crucial that you know.
Why Can’t I Keep Coffee In The Fridge?
Coffees number one enemy is moisture.
What Types Of Coffee Can I Store In the Freezer?
When storing coffee in the freezer, there are some caveats.
Why Shouldn’t I Freeze Coffee Beans?
Coffee beans are porous and can absorb the smells and moisture in your freezer.
All in all, freezing coffee could result in a less-than-ideal taste.
They also fire off the risk of freezer burn.
That said, freezing beans is still a viable option for slow coffee drinkers.
How Long Does Coffee Last In the Freezer?
When stored properly, frozen coffee beans can last about six months or so in the freezer.
Brewed coffee lasts for two months in the freezer.
To freeze, separate one-cup portions of beans in small zip-top freezer bags.
Remove as much air as you might from the bags and place them in the freezer.
Avoid opening and closing the bag of coffee beans while still frozen.
This introduces moisture to the bag and can impact the flavor.
Instead, defrost the coffee in batches, grind it, and use it.
Before you freeze coffee, consider how you might want to use it.
Want a speedy cup oficed coffee?
The ice cube tray may be your best bet.
Need java juice for your next batch of brownies?
Not sure how youll be using your frozen coffee?
Smaller batches are always best to preserve flavor.
Wait until the coffee is completely cool before pouring it into containers to prevent plastic from melting.
Ice Trays
Have your ice cube tray work double-duty!
Choose a silicone tray if possible, as the flexible material will make removing the frozen pucks easier.
Freeze coffee for four hours to chill completely.
Remove from the tray, and seal in an airtight container.
Mini Loaf Pans
Freeze larger amounts in mini loaf pans, which hold 3/4 cup of liquid.
Opt for silicone trays if possible, as this method can be difficult to remove after freezing.
Cover with a piece of plastic wrap to prevent odors from the freezer.
Once completely frozen, pop out the solid coffee, and transfer it to an airtight freezer bag.
Zip-Top Bag
Save space in the freezer by using zip-top bags.
To prevent spills, place the bag into a cup and roll the edges over the rim.
Smaller bags hold one cup of liquid, which is ideal for baking or cooking.
Smaller portions (like the ice cubes) may only take a few hours.
Alternatively, heat the coffee on defrost in the microwave.
Add it to thisretro coffee punchto delight your guests, or add it to baked goods liketiramisuorbrownies.
Wait until the beans have completely thawed before opening the bag.
Grind the beans, and enjoy!
Can I Freeze Milk For My Coffee, Too?
If you absolutely cannot drink coffee without milk, don’t worry.
You canfreeze milkas well.
You’ll want to decant the milk from its original carton as milk can expand when frozen.
This process will work for yourcreamer, too.
