Can You Freeze Brownies? (2024)

Updated: Mar. 28, 2024

When you want to save these fudgy treats for later, you'll need to know how to freeze brownies.

When I’ve just made a fresh pan of warm brownies, there is one thought that flashes through my mind: “How can I make them last as long as possible?” The answer is simple—freeze ’em! Like freezing a cake or freezing cheesecake, there are a few tips to consider so you end up with the best outcome after thawing.

Can you freeze brownies?

Yes! Brownies can be frozen for three months and returned to their original fresh-from-the-oven state without an issue. While freezing brownies is simple, some types thaw better than others.

The best types of brownies to freeze

Just about every type of brownie—whether it’s homemade or from a boxed mix—is ideal for freezing. If you’re making frosted brownies and using the freezer to help you prep in advance, it’s best to cut and freeze your brownies before adding the frosting. But fear not if you’re freezing leftover frosted brownies! Though they might not be as pretty as they initially were, the texture and flavor of frozen frosted brownies will still be OK. Just make sure to wrap them well and be prepared for the frosting to weep slightly.

When it comes to freezing brownies with mix-ins, it’s perfectly okay to go (pun intended) nuts. Brownies that are studded with pieces of candy, shredded coconut, swirls of caramel, mini marshmallows or toasted nuts can be frozen without incident and will continue to be absolutely delicious once they’ve been properly thawed.

If a recipe calls for cream cheese swirl or jam filling, those dairy and liquid-based ingredients may sweat as they come to room temperature. While this extra moisture won’t change the flavor of the brownies, it will affect the appearance and texture.

How to Freeze Brownies

Freezing food is easy. There are a couple of options for storing these chocolaty indulgences long term. Pick your method based on what you want to use them for in the future.

How to freeze a whole pan of brownies

Can You Freeze Brownies? (1)TMB Studio

Freezing brownies as an uncut slab is the best method for protecting them from freezer burn and oxidation. Since air can only creep into the brownies from the edges of the slab, the center is totally protected from drying out or slight color changes.

To freeze a whole pan (or a pan short of a slice!), line the pan you’ll bake in with parchment paper. Make sure plenty of the paper pokes out above the brownies so it is easy to grab—you’ll use it to remove the baked brownies from the pan.

After baking the brownies, let them cool completely. Wrap the whole sheet of brownies tightly with plastic wrap, then wrap again with foil.

This method is best when you plan to serve the entire pan, since you’ll need to thaw it all at once. It is not ideal when you want to thaw individual brownies.

How to freeze individual brownies

Can You Freeze Brownies? (2)TMB Studio

If you prefer a brownie to be available at any time—chocolate cravings are real!—freeze them individually.

Slice cooled brownies and place them in a glass or plastic container in a single layer. Cover that layer with wax or parchment paper. Press the paper lightly into the top of each brownie to create a better seal. Top with another layer of brownies and repeat until the container is full or you run out of brownies. Cover the top layer of brownies with paper to keep them as fresh as possible.

How to Thaw Brownies

Defrosting brownies is a snap. Unwrap and set them on a plate on the counter to allow them to come to room temperature.

If you just can’t wait for your fudgy treat, pop it into the microwave on 50% power for 15-second increments. Don’t let it get too hot—best to test a little nibble first.

The Best Brownies You're Not Baking Yet

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Can You Freeze Brownies? (3)

Ultimate Double Chocolate BrowniesAs someone who grew up in the country, I love getting out into nature whenever I can. I also love home-style recipes, including these yummy brownies. —Carol Prewett, Cheyenne, WyomingGo to Recipe

Chocolate Mint Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Chocolate Mint BrowniesOne of the best things about this recipe is that these mint chocolate brownies get moister if you leave them in the refrigerator for a day or two. The problem at our house is that no one can leave them alone for that long! —Helen Baines, Elkton, Maryland

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Also, check if you can freeze browniesif you wish to keep these fudgy delicacies for later.

Caramel Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Caramel BrowniesI love to cook. My family can't possibly eat all the sweets I whip up, so my co-workers are more than happy to sample them—particularly these rich, chewy caramel brownies that are full of gooey caramel, chocolate chips and crunchy walnuts. —Clara Bakke, Coon Rapids, Minnesota

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Chocolate Syrup BrowniesThese chocolate syrup brownies are a favorite for summer picnics. I received the recipe from a dear friend many years ago, and I still make it at least once a month. Whenever I'm asked to bring a dessert to an outing or I want to send a treat to a neighbor or friend, I prepare these wonderful bars. —Goldie Hanke, Tomahawk, Wisconsin

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Frosted Fudge BrowniesA neighbor brought over a pan of these rich fudge brownies along with the recipe when I came home from the hospital with our baby daughter. I asked her how to make brownie frosting like that, and I've made them ever since for family occasions, potlucks and parties at work. —Sue Soderlund, Elgin, Illinois

Cappuccino Cake Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Cappuccino Cake BrowniesIf you like your sweets with a cup of coffee, this recipe is good for you! These no-nut brownies combine a mild coffee flavor with the richness of semisweet chocolate chips. They're a quick and easy dessert or anytime snack at our house. —Mary Houchin Swansea, Illinois

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Chocolate Crunch BrowniesThe first time I took these brownies to work, I knew I'd better start making copies of the recipe—they disappeared fast! My husband and kids gobble them up quickly, too. —Pat Mueller, Mitchell, South Dakota

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Layered Chocolate Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Layered Chocolate Marshmallow Peanut Butter BrowniesA friend gave me the recipe for these layered brownies, but I added my own touch--chunky peanut butter. Every time I take these to a group gathering, I get requests for the recipe. It's a real crowd-pleaser! —Judy Sims, Weatherford, Texas

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Fudgy Oat BrowniesThese cakelike brownies have a rich, crunchy oat crust and a smooth homemade chocolate frosting. A packaged brownie mix makes the recipe easy to prepare. You can make it even easier by using canned frosting. —Diana Otterson, Canandaigua, New York

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Cinnamon BrowniesFor Christmas one year, a friend gave us a pan of these delicious brownies. Before I figured out their secret was cinnamon, half the pan was already gone! —Gail Mehle, Rock Springs, Wyoming.Hungry for more? Here’s our list of Christmas brownies that are a must at the dessert table.

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Fudge-Topped BrowniesIf you love brownies and fudge, why not combine the two? Mix up a pan of these exquisite brownies for any holiday or special gathering—or just when you want to treat yourself to the ultimate chocolate dessert.—Judy Olson, Whitecourt, Alberta

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Taste of Home

You won't want to frost these brownies, since the marbled top is too pretty to cover up. Besides, the indulgent cream cheese layer makes them taste as if they're already frosted. The crushed cookies add extra chocolate flavor and a fun crunch. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon

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Cream Cheese Swirl BrowniesI'm a chocolate lover, and these cream cheese brownies have satisfied my cravings many times. No one guesses the brownies are light because their chewy texture and rich chocolate taste can't be beat. My family requests them often, and I'm happy to oblige. —Heidi Johnson, Worland, Wyoming

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Candy Bar BrowniesThe two kinds of candy bars baked into these brownies make them an extra-special treat. —Sharon Evans, Clear Lake, Iowa

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Peppermint Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Peppermint BrowniesMy grandmother encouraged me to enter these mint brownies in the county fair some years ago—and they earned top honors! They're a delicious treat to serve during the holidays. —Marcy Greenblatt, Redding, California

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Candy Bar Cheesecake Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Candy Bar Cheesecake BrowniesI came up with these brownies as a way to use up my son's leftover Halloween candy. You can tint the cream cheese orange for a spooky touch. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grv, Utah

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Fudge Brownie PieHere's a fun and festive way to serve brownies. Family and friends will love topping their pieces with whipped cream and strawberries. —Johnnie McLeod, Bastrop, Louisiana

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Coffee 'n' Cream BrowniesA friend gave me the recipe for these rich cakelike brownies topped with a creamy coffee-enhanced filling and a chocolate glaze. I like to garnish each square with a coffee bean. —Michelle Tiemstra, Lacombe, Alberta

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Cookie Dough BrowniesWhen I take these rich brownies to any get-together, I carry the recipe, too, because it always gets requested. Children of all ages love the tempting "cookie dough" filling. This special treat is typically the first to be gone from the buffet table—even before the entrees! —Wendy Bailey, Elida, Ohio

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Black Bean Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Black Bean BrowniesYou’d never guess these rich, velvety chocolate treats contain a can of black beans. Who would have thought black bean brownies would be so amazing? —Kathy Hewitt, Cranston, Rhode Island

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Broadway Brownie Bars Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Broadway Brownie BarsI named these dessert bars for Broadway because they're a hit every time I serve them. I especially like to make them as a gift for anyone with a sweet tooth! —Anne Frederick, New Hartford, New York

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Double Chocolate Orange BrowniesI have to give my husband credit for this idea—since we love chocolate and orange together, he suggested I come up with this recipe. Now they're not only his favorite, but also the whole family's. I'm always asked to bake these brownies for family gatherings. —Elinor Townsend, North Grafton, Massachusetts

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Mini Brownie TreatsI like to take these quick and easy treats to potlucks and family gatherings. They're always well received! —Pam Kokes, North Loup, Nebraska

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Double Chocolate Coconut BrowniesThanks to a head start from a mix, it's easy to bake up these crowd-pleasing treats. It's hard to stop at just one brownie, but don't worry—my recipe makes 30 servings! —Brenda Melancon, McComb, Mississippi

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Banana Split Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Banana Split BrowniesHow’s this for a dish? All the joy of a banana split without the mess. Everything in this recipe fits into one pan of delectable brownie bars. —Constance Sheckler, Chestertown, Maryland

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Fudgy S'mores BrowniesI combined the perfect summer snack with my favorite brownie recipe to get these s'mores brownies. They're sure to wow at your next big party. —Judy Cunningham, Max, North Dakota

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Frosted Brownie Pizza Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Frosted Brownie PizzaIt's impossible to eat just one piece of this dessert pizza with a chewy, chocolaty crust, creamy peanut butter frosting and mouthwatering sweet and crunchy toppings. It's warmly received wherever I take it. —Paula Riehl, Boise, Idaho

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Chewy Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Chewy Cream Cheese BrowniesBrownies are a common dessert in our household—they're just about the only form of chocolate my husband will eat! I love this version. It makes a big batch and has a rich cream cheese layer in the center. —Barbara Nitcznski, Denver, Colorado

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Turtle BrowniesHomemade turtle brownies are a sweet addition to the appetizer table on game day. Your guests might forget the score, but I guarantee they'll remember these treats! —Sherry Miller, Columbia Heights, Minnesota

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Up Next, learn how to make hot chocolate brownies just like Christina Tosi, queen of sweet treats and nostalgic flavors.

Can You Freeze Brownies? (2024)

FAQs

Can You Freeze Brownies? ›

Yes. You can freeze brownies with or without nuts in an airtight container for up to two months. If wrapping brownies still in the pan, ensure it is airtight and sealed before placing them in the freezer.

Can I freeze already cooked brownies? ›

Brownies can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, but whether you choose to freeze a whole pan of brownies or individual portions, be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Do frozen brownies taste good? ›

Brownies that are studded with pieces of candy, shredded coconut, swirls of caramel, mini marshmallows or toasted nuts can be frozen without incident and will continue to be absolutely delicious once they've been properly thawed.

How do you defrost frozen brownies? ›

To thaw the brownies, unwrap them from the foil and clingfilm and let them stand at room temperature for 3-4 hours before cutting into squares or bars (keep the baking parchment on the base until they are cut).

How to store brownies in the freezer? ›

Wrap brownies tightly in freezer-quality plastic wrap or a freezer-friendly bag with the air pushed out of the bag. You can wrap it in a second layer of foil or place it in a freezer-friendly container as a second layer of protection.

How long will brownies last in the fridge? ›

Storing Brownies in the Refrigerator

Storing brownies in the fridge can keep them fresh for up to two weeks. For the best storage method, wrap each brownie tightly before placing it in the fridge. Because baked goods are porous, they tend to absorb the odors and flavors of the foods around them.

Can you freeze brownies in Ziploc bags? ›

Yes. You can freeze brownies with or without nuts in an airtight container for up to two months. If wrapping brownies still in the pan, ensure it is airtight and sealed before placing them in the freezer.

Can I eat a week old brownie? ›

Brownies will last 3 to 4 days in an airtight container at room temperature and up to a week in the refrigerator. Brownies will last up to 3 months in the freezer, but if they stay frozen for a prolonged period of time, their taste and quality will begin to deteriorate.

How long to cool brownies in the freezer? ›

Quick Cooling Methods:If you're pressed for time, consider placing your brownies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or in the freezer for 15 minutes. Ensure they are adequately covered to avoid absorbing any smells/flavors from your fridge!

Does freezing brownies make them easier to cut? ›

Brownies will be easier to cut if you place the pan in the freezer for several minutes. Dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and move it across the pan in an up-and-down sawing motion.

Can blondie brownies be frozen? ›

They freeze really well!

Can you freeze Betty Crocker brownies? ›

Just be sure to cover them tightly. To freeze brownies, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic freezer bags or put them in plastic freezer containers. If you're stacking the brownies, place a sheet of waxed paper between the layers. They'll keep for 4 to 6 months in the freezer.

How far in advance can you make brownies? ›

Nigella's classic Brownies (from HOW TO BE A DOMESTIC GODDESS) are moist and squidgy and should keep well in an airtight container for up to 5 days. However, if you are making them for a special event, such as a bake sale, then you may prefer to make them 1-2 days ahead to be sure that they are at their very best.

Should brownies be gooey? ›

The edges should look firm and well-baked, and the center should be moist but not gooey.

Can you refreeze chocolate brownies? ›

You can refreeze chocolate brownies. It's like references to "left over wine" in recipes. As Mañuel might say "Qué?" They contain a lot of sugar so I wouldn't worry about re-freezing them.

Can you freeze Ghirardelli brownies? ›

What is the best way to store my brownies after I bake them? Allow brownies to cool completely after baking and store in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap. Keep at room temperature for about three days, or freeze for up to three months.

Can you freeze bad brownies? ›

Can the brownies be frozen? Yes, our brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months. How many calories are in the brownies? All brownies boxes come with an insert that displays ingredients and nutritional information.

How do you freeze brownie mix? ›

Basic Brownies

Sometimes, especially when the recipe or mix calls for oil, the batter won't freeze totally solid, but you still follow the same principle. You can either leave the batter in the ice cube trays or transfer them to a zipper-lock bag knowing you may need to separate any that stick together while freezing.

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