Freezing corn on or off the cob is a great way to savor that garden-fresh flavor for several months.

In this post, I’ll show you all you need to know, with detailed step by step instructions.

There is nothing like the taste of fresh corn on the cob, and it’s such a yummy summer treat. If only there was a way to be able to enjoy it all year round, right?

Well, now you can! Freezing fresh corn locks in the flavor, and it will last until next year (that’s if you don’t eat it all before then).

It’s a wonderful way to preserve your homegrown bounty, or fresh produce from the farmer’s market or grocery store.

Below I will show you the simple steps you can take to freeze fresh corn either on or off the cob.

Table of Contents

Preparing Corn For Freezing

Preparing corn for freezing is straightforward with just a few simple steps.

You can choose to keep it on the cob, with or without the husk, or remove the kernels. This is really up to you.

It depends on the amount of time and freezer space you have, and what you plan to use it for in the future.

Though it’s not essential, blanching beforehand will prevent it from getting mushy, help retain its flavor, and brighten the color.

Can You Freeze Corn Without Blanching?

You can freeze corn without blanching, although it could become mushy once it’s thawed.

This may be ok if you plan to use it for purees, soups, or other similar recipes.

However, if you want it to stay nice and firm, then you should definitely blanch it first.

How To Blanch Corn On Or Off The Cob

To blanch your corn before freezing, remove the husk and silk first. Then simply flash-cook the cobs in a large pot of boiling water.

Leave small ears in the hot water for 6 minutes, medium sized ones for 8, and large for 10. Take care not to overcook it, or it could become mushy.

Then remove it from the pot, and immediately place it in ice water to stop the cooking process.

Blanching corn on the cob before freezing

Freezing Corn On The Cob

Freezing corn right on the cob is simple and convenient, and definitely the fastest way to do it. However, it does take up a lot more space in the freezer.

Before getting started, make sure to rinse off any dirt and debris that may be on the husk.

If you decide to shuck it, cut off both ends of the ears to make it easier to remove the husk. Then rinse them under the faucet until all of the silk is gone.

Freezing Corn Off The Cob

Cutting corn off the cob before freezing is another great option, and will save on space. This also makes it a snap to heat up for a quick side dish, or to toss into your recipes.

You can use a knife to cut them off from top to bottom. Another method is to use a cob stripper or peeler tool.

I like to put between 1-4 cups in smaller baggies. But you can portion it out in any way that makes sense for your intended use.

Note: If you plan to blanch it, do it while it’s still on the cob, and cut the kernels off after it has cooled completely.

Removing corn from the cob before freezing

Tools & Supplies Needed

Below is a list of the tools and supplies necessary for all of these methods. But depending on the process you choose to use, you might not need everything.

One gallon freezer bags
Permanent marker
Sharp chef knife
Corn peeler OR stripping tool (optional)
Large pot (optional)
Large bowl of ice water (optional)

How To Store Corn In The Freezer

In my experience, the best way to store frozen corn is by using freezer bags. This will not only save space, but it also helps to prevent freezer burn.

Of course if you prefer, you could use any type of container you have, as long as it’s airtight to seal in the freshness.

If you want to ensure an even tighter seal, and eliminate the worry of freezer burn, try using a food vacuum sealer.

How Long Does Frozen Corn Last?

Frozen corn can last up to 12 months, as long as it’s properly sealed in an airtight container.

Make sure you always label it with the month and year it was frozen. This will help you to remember to use it before it expires.

Related Post: How To Can Corn

FAQs

In this section, I’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about freezing corn. If yours isn’t listed here, ask it in the comments below.

Is it better to freeze corn on the cob or off?

It’s not better to freeze corn on or off the cob. The method you choose depends on the time and space you have, as well as the way you plan to use it once it’s thawed.

Can you freeze fresh uncooked corn?

Yes you can freeze fresh uncooked corn. However it may end up being mushy once it thaws if you don’t blanch it first.

Is it better to freeze corn with or without husk?

It is better to freeze corn with the husk still on, because it can help to prevent freezer burn. However, shucking them first will save you time later on.

Do you have to blanch corn before freezing?

No, you do not have to blanch corn before freezing. However, unblanched corn can lose its flavor, and color, and turn mushy when thawed.

How do you know if frozen corn is bad?

To determine if frozen corn is bad, look for dry spots and discoloration on the kernels.

Freezing corn on or off the cob is easy, and doesn’t take much time. By following the steps above, you are sure to enjoy that summer freshness all year long.

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More About Food Preservation

Share your tips for how to freeze corn in the comments section below.

Step By Step Instructions

How To Freeze Corn

There are two ways to freeze fresh corn: 1. leaving it on the cob (with or without the husk), or 2. cutting the kernels off the cob. Below I will give you the detailed steps for both methods.

Ingredients

Whole un-shucked corn

Instructions

Cut off the ends of the ears - Whether you plan to shuck it or not, first remove the ends. Cut them off right below the base stem and above the top of the ear with a sharp knife.
Remove the husk and silk (optional) - If you would like, you can leave the husk on, or remove it along with the silk. But if you want to blanch it, you must shuck it first.
Rinse it (optional) - Use your hand to gently rub the remaining silk off as you rinse the ears under the faucet.
Blanch it (optional) - If you choose to blanch the cobs before freezing, place your corn into boiling water (6 minutes for small, 8 for medium, 10 for large). Immediately put them into a bowl of ice water afterward to stop the cooking process.
Cut the kernels off the cob (optional) - If you plan to freeze whole cobs, then you can skip this step. Otherwise, use a knife, peeler, or stripper tool to remove the kernels.
Fill the baggies - Pat whole cobs dry before putting them into freezer bags so the ears don’t stick together. Otherwise, pour the desired amount of kernels into each. Gently remove the extra air before sealing the baggies so they take up the least amount of space.
Label it - Use a permanent marker to write the type of corn and the date you froze it on the baggie.
Store it in the freezer - Put your baggies of corn into your freezer. It will keep up to 12 months.