All the answers if you’re wondering can you freeze Crème Fraiche.
There are several popular condiments that we use in the kitchen, each with its importance. Some are more versatile, while others are strictly for special occasions.
While we may not dream of making such condiments ourselves, often the tastiest ones are the simplest.
Crème Fraiche is one such topping that is incredibly versatile and easy to make. It has a luscious, decadent taste which can pair incredibly well with all courses.
Making Crème Fraiche is pretty simple, but storing it may not seem so. Luckily, we’ve listed the best ways for you to store this delicious, thick cream.
So, keep reading below to learn that can Crème Fraiche be frozen.
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How to freeze Crème fraiche?
A significant concern whenever you’re freezing anything is regarding ice formation. When you freeze anything, any water present solidifies.
This concern is valid when it comes to freezing Crème Fraiche too. When you freeze Crème Fraiche, the water separates. It can cause discolouration and a change inconsistency.
However, if you need to freeze Crème Fraiche, it’s better to freeze it in small batches. The first thing to do when freezing your Crème Fraiche is by dividing it into an ice or herb tray.
Once your cream is completely frozen, you can take out the cubes and store them in a Ziploc bag or an airtight container. Pop these in the freezer, and they should be suitable for up to four months.
Be sure to mention the date you froze your Crème Fraiche because it can go bad after a while.
Tips for freezing it
Freezing your Crème Fraiche may seem simple, but there are some pointers you should keep in mind. For starters, you shouldn’t store your Crème Fraiche for so long unless you need to.
Secondly, we recommended storing smaller portions because it makes the Crème much easier to use. It can be incredibly hard trying to take out small quantities from a whole pot of frozen cream.
Additionally, you can’t refreeze your Crème Fraiche after defrosting it once. You’ll have a runny, separated mess on your hands.
Furthermore, when freezing Crème Fraiche, the sooner you do it, the better. If you keep the Crème in the fridge for a long time, you’ll have a much harder time freezing it well.
If you know you won’t be using so much of it, freeze it as soon as possible. This way, you can better maintain the consistency and flavour of this delicious cream.
How to defrost it
While following the freezing process properly is essential, it’s vital to know how to deal with the Crème Fraiche during the defrosting process.
When you defrost your Crème Fraiche, you’ll notice that the consistency will change considerably. Crème Fraiche is a full fat Crème, and the fat tends to separate from the liquid during the freezing process.
When defrosting the cream, it’s best to leave it to thaw in the fridge for a few hours beforehand. Once the cream is entirely unfrozen, you can start reworking it to the original consistency.
It can seem challenging at first, as Crème Fraiche can change its texture and consistency entirely after freezing. However, some hard work can return the cream to its original light, airy state.
Get yourself a bowl and a whisk, and keep whipping the cream until it returns to its original state.
Using it after defrosting
You can use your Crème Fraiche in several ways after defrosting. You can mix it into your soups to give them a lovely, light, zingy flavour and thicken them.
You can also make a salad dressing from it by mixing it with herbs and spices.
Furthermore, you can also pair it with meat by blending it with citrus and herbs.
If you want to keep your baked good moist, Crème Fraiche is an excellent addition. It can also add a zesty flavour to your scones, muffins, cakes, and bread.
If you want to keep things simple, you can whip it until it’s light and airy and mix in some fruits for a deliciously light, summery fruit bowl.
FAQs
Is Crème Fraiche similar to sour cream?
To make sour cream, you mix the cream with a lactic acid culture which helps thicken the cream further and gives it a sour taste. Sour cream has less fat than Crème Fraiche, ringing in at 20% fat generally.
The lesser fat content and various manufacturing process mean that you can’t use sour cream in soups or other hot foods, as it will curdle. It also has a much tangier taste than Crème Fraiche.
Crème Fraiche has a higher fat content, at 30%. It is also made through a fermentation process.
Bacteria eat the sugars in the cream and milk and thickens the mixture while giving it a tangy taste. You can boil and simmer Crème Fraiche without fearing that it’ll curdle too.
Can I use Greek yoghurt instead of Crème Fraiche?
Greek yoghurt, too, curdles much easier than Crème Fraiche when you boil or simmer it. Furthermore, it doesn’t have the mild taste characteristic of Crème Fraiche.
The texture can also vary, so it’s best to stick to using Crème Fraiche. However, if you have no other alternative, you can use the same amount of Greek yoghurt as you would Crème Fraiche.
How long does Crème Fraiche last once open?
Crème Fraiche is a pretty delicate product, and it won’t last you a long time after you open it. The maximum your Crème Fraiche can last you after opening is 4-5 days.
How long will Crème Fraiche keep in the refrigerator?
While keeping your Crème Fraiche on the shelf may not be a bright idea, storing the Crème Fraiche in the fridge is a good option.
Your Crème Fraiche can last up to 8 weeks in the fridge, as long as you keep it at a stable temperature. If you freeze your Crème Fraiche, it can last even longer.
Can you freeze Crème Fraiche in soup?
You can use frozen Crème Fraiche in soups after restoring it to its original consistency. Crème Fraiche tends to separate and grow running after you freeze it.
Whipping your Crème Fraiche is the best way of restoring it to its original state. Then, you can mix it into your soups easily.
So, if you’re wondering that can you freeze Crème Fraiche, and use it in soup, the answer is yes.
What can I substitute for Crème Fraiche?
There are some substitutes you can use for Crème Fraiche. These substitutes may have a different consistency or taste, but they can work.
Greek yoghurt is a good option if you want a low-fat option, as it has a mild, tangy taste. You can use Greek yoghurt in baked goods to give them the same moisture that Crème Fraiche would.
Sour cream is also a popular substitute for Crème Fraiche, as it has a light, airy texture and zingy taste.
What does Crème fraiche taste like?
Crème Fraiche tastes like summer in a bowl. It has a light, airy texture and a nutty, tangy, citrusy flavour.
It is less tangy than yoghurt or sour cream and has a rich, smooth taste that adults and children alike can fall in love with.
Conclusion
Crème Fraiche is an excellent addition to sweet and savoury meals and can make anything you pair with a taste more luscious and rich. The slight tanginess can elevate even the simplest of meals to gourmet cuisines.
It is also effortless to make, and all you need are a handful of ingredients and some patience. If you’re an aspiring home cook, Crème Fraiche is something you need to stock in your kitchen at all times.
So, get on with freezing your Crème Fraiche and storing it to have a full supply all year round!
Andy
Ever since I started cooking I’ve been fascinated by how different people’s techniques are and how they best utilise the ingredients around them. Even the person living next door will have their own unique way of frying an egg or cooking a salmon fillet.
This fascination led me on a journey across the globe to discover the countless practices and traditions the world of cooking has to offer. I thought you’d enjoy and find value in sharing that journey with me so I created Cooked Best!