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Close-up of several fresh lemons cut in half, showing their juicy, bright yellow interior and textured rind. The image is well-lit, highlighting the details and freshness—perfect for freezing lemons or enjoying as frozen lemons.
Angi Schneider

Freezing Lemons - whole, slices, zest and juice

5 from 1 vote
Learn how to freeze lemons in slices, whole, zest, or juice so you always have fresh citrus on hand. A simple method for preserving lemons for drinks, cooking, and baking.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Additional Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Preserving Food
Cuisine: American
Preservation Method: Freezing
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Fresh lemons

Equipment

Method
 

Prepare Lemons:
  1. Wash the lemons thoroughly under cool water and pat them dry.
Freeze Whole Lemons:
  1. Place lemons in a freezer-safe bag.
  2. Remove excess air.
  3. Put in freezer.
Freeze Lemon Slices or Wedges:
  1. Cut lemons into rounds or wedges.
  2. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Put in the freezer until frozen.
  4. Transfer frozen lemon slices or wedges to a freezer bag for storing in the freezer.
Freezing Lemon Zest:
  1. Zest the whole lemon.
  2. Put the zest in a small container or freezer bag and put in the freezer.
Freezing Lemon Juice
  1. Juice lemons.
  2. Pour juice into a freezer safe container - ice cube trays, plastic cups or wide mouth mason jars.
  3. Put the filled containers in the freezer.
  4. Once frozen, transfer the frozen juice from the ice cube trays or plastic cups into a freezer bag for storage. If you used mason jars, secure the lid after they're frozen.

Notes

Best Ways to Use Frozen Lemons:
  • Whole: thaw for juice/zest.
  • Slices: drop into water, tea, cocktails or use for baked fish or chicken.
  • Juice: lemonade, cooking, baking, salad dressings.
  • Zest: marinades, desserts, sauces.

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