Lemons are one of those pantry staples we reach for constantly – brightening sauces, lifting bakes, and adding a fresh kick to drinks.
If you’ve stocked up or have a bowl that’s fuller than usual, freezing them is an easy way to make sure nothing goes to waste. With the right steps, you can keep that vibrant citrus flavour on hand for months.
Try this: No-bake lemon meringue pie
Freezing whole lemons
Whole lemons freeze beautifully and are handy to have ready for cooking or baking.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Arrange on a tray and freeze until firm.
- Move to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Store them towards the back of the freezer where temperatures stay steady. They’ll keep their flavour and juiciness for about four months.
To use, let them soften at room temperature. You can also zest them while frozen, then wait for them to thaw before juicing.
Freezing lemon juice
Juice freezes best in small portions, making it easy to use exactly what you need.
- Squeeze the lemons.
- Divide the juice into an ice-cube tray.
- Once set, transfer the cubes to a sealed container.
These cubes are perfect for adding to drinks, finishing off sauces, or brightening soups. They also work well in glazes or syrups. One cube is roughly a tablespoon, which makes measuring effortless. Frozen juice keeps well for up to nine months.
Freezing lemon zest
Zest carries intense citrus aroma thanks to its natural oils, and freezing helps preserve that fragrant punch.
- Zest clean, dry lemons.
- Spread in a thin layer on a parchment-lined tray.
- Freeze, then store in a small jar or airtight container.
Use it within three months for the best flavour. It’s lovely in dressings, marinades, bakes, or sprinkled into seasoning mixes.
Smart storage tips
- Remove lemons from store packaging when you get home.
- Keep fresh citrus in a cool spot away from direct sunlight.
- Always wash before freezing or using.
- Keep frozen citrus sealed tightly to prevent ice crystals and loss of flavour.
Freezing lemons is an effortless way to extend their lifespan and make everyday cooking a little easier. Whether you prefer juice, zest, or whole fruit, your freezer can become a treasure trove of citrus goodness ready for any recipe.
ALSO SEE: 10 RECIPES FOR WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU TOO MANY LEMONS
