Processing and freezing raw pastry (2024)

FAQs

Processing and freezing raw pastry? ›

You can freeze uncooked pastry but if you roll it and freeze and plan to shape once defrosted there is a risk that it will be dry and prone to crack.

You can freeze uncooked pastry but if you roll it and freeze and plan to shape once defrosted there is a risk that it will be dry and prone to crack.

You can do either. We like to freeze it raw then bake from frozen but you can make, freeze (to chill), bake, cool and freeze if you want to get a step further ahead.

They will last for 1-2 days in the fridge (if they are well covered in clingfilm), but if you aren't going to use it in that time, wrap the pastry tightly in cling film and pop it in the freezer. We always use 2 layers of cling film just to make sure nothing can get through. Simple.

You can simply press and pinch two pieces of pastry together if you have to patch a hole or attach a lid. The pastry can be made beforehand, popped into a plastic bag and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just allow the pastry to warm up again before using.

Freezing uncooked pastry

Wrap well in plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 6 months. Transfer to the fridge to thaw completely (this will take about 1 day).

With correct storage, frozen puff pastry can last for 12 months in the freezer. However, the puff pastry must be kept in a tightly-sealed container so that it doesn't come into direct contact with frost, which introduces moisture and increases the risk of mold growth.

Once the dough has come together, form it into a disc (approximately 1cm/1/2 inch thick) and wrap it tightly in clingfilm before putting it in the fridge. The good news is that as long as the dough is left in the fridge it should keep for 24 hours.

If eating pastry the day after purchased, store in the fridge overnight. If keeping for longer, tightly wrap individual pastries in aluminum foil and store in freezer until ready to eat. (We recommend that frozen pastries be consumed within one month, and refrigerated pastries be consumed within three days).

Q: Can I freeze unbaked puff pastry treats? A: Yes! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then wrap well and store in the freezer for up to two weeks. You don't have to thaw them before baking, but you might have to add a couple of minutes to the baking time.

How do you store unbaked crust in the freezer? ›

You can freeze both baked and unbaked pie crusts.

An unbaked crust will keep for 2 months in the freezer; a baked crust will keep for 4 months.

Like cakes and quick breads, muffins, cupcakes, and scones freeze beautifully. Bake them, cool them, wrap individually in plastic wrap or Press & Seal, then place in a large zipped-top bag or freezer container.

Pie dough is a great keeper in the freezer. As long as it's tightly wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer-weight plastic wrap and sealed in a freezer bag, it should keep for up to 6 months. Pie dough freezes so well, in fact, you'd be wise to make some extra to keep around for whenever inspiration strikes.

That includes the stuff that freezes well raw (like biscuits/scones, cookies, and—don't judge me—choux pastry) or thaws nicely once baked (muffins, unfrosted cakes, brownies).

Most pies will freeze well from a raw or cooked state. However, custard filled pies do not tend to freeze well. When freezing a fruit pie, you'll see the best results if you freeze a combination of cooked fruit filling in a raw pastry. Raw fruit filling can become watery on thawing and may require additional thickener.

The uncooked and shaped pastries can also be frozen. Place a tray of freshly-prepared pastries in a large plastic bag and place in the freezer for around 2 hours.

Recipe Tips

This rough puff pastry recipe makes 500g/1lb 2oz, ideal for topping a large oven-baked pie. The uncooked pastry can be frozen for up to 6 months, well wrapped, before using.