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Learn how to freeze corn on the cob IN THE HUSK, without blanching it first. It's the easiest way to enjoy delicious, fresh corn once summer has ended!
I was inspired to test this freezing method after several readers commented on the process to microwave corn on the cob in the husk and said they'd always done it this way! Really?!
To Blanch or Not to Blanch before Freezing Corn
Conventional guidance is that you must blanch vegetables before you freeze them. Blanching slows the action of enzymes that naturally occur in vegetables and degrades the quality (color, texture, and flavor) of the vegetables. Freezing slows down the action a little, but it does not stop it. This article on the Science of Freezing Food from the University of Minnesota Extension does an excellent job of explaining the nitty-gritty details.
While blanching is definitely the most common way to prepare corn for freezing, you don't have to take this step.
When it comes to corn on the cob, I've been pretty happy with the result when I freeze corn on the cob in the husk without cooking it first. It literally takes a few minutes to freeze corn this way and there is no mess at all. The husk may even reduce the opportunity for freezer burn.
This method is ideal for shorter periods of storage...up to about 4 months. The biggest difference that I noted was that the corn starts to get a little softer as time goes on, which may not be a problem at all depending on how you are going to use it. It's perfect when you'd like to buy a little extra fresh corn at the farmer's market or when it goes on sale!
Ways to Freeze Fresh Corn
There are many options for freezing corn. You can:
- Remove the husks, blanch the corn on the cob and then freeze the whole cobs of corn.
- Shuck the cobs, blanch them, remove the corn kernels and freeze only the kernels.
- Cook corn, allow it to cool, remove the husks and freeze the cooked cobs or the kernels that have been cut off the cob.
- Freeze uncooked corn on the cob in the husk. This is the EASIEST method by far.
Note: To blanch corn on the cob with husks removed, submerge the corn in boiling for water according to the guidelines below and then remove the corn to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
Blanching guidelines for corn on the cob are as follows:
- Small ears: 7 minutes
- Medium ears: 9 minutes
- Large ears: 11 minutes
How to Freeze Corn on the Cob in the Husk without Blanching
- Start with the freshest corn possible. If you start with corn that has been sitting on the counter for a few days instead of ones stored in the refrigerator, then you're already one step behind when it comes to quality!
- Don't peel or remove anything. If the husk is snug against the corn then it will help prevent freezer burn.
- Wrap corn in plastic wrap and/or place it in a plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. Use a FoodSaver to vacuum pack it if your have one.
- Store corn in the cob in the freezer until you're ready to cook it.
How to Cook Frozen Corn on the Cob in the Husk
The magic continues when you're ready to cook frozen corn on the cob. Simply follow the directions to microwave corn on the cob in the husk.
- Remove it from the freezer. Many people find it best to allow the corn to defrost first.
- Place corn on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on high using the guidelines for fresh corn. I don't find it necessary to add any additional time. But, the time frame for cooking will vary depending upon the microwave.
- 1 ear – 2 minutes
- 2 ears – 4 minutes
- 3 ears – 5 minutes
- 4 ears – 6 minutes
- Cut about an inch off the end of the corn that does not have the silk exposed.
- Grab hold of the end of the corn with the silk and pull off the husk and the silk.
- Enjoy on the cob or remove the kernels to use in recipes like Mexican Street Corn in a Cup, Shrimp Tortilla Soup and Fresh Corn and Black Bean Salsa!
Be sure to check out these quick dinner ideas with corn on the cob, too!
If you try this method, drop us a comment with your result or tag @DinnerMom or #DinnerMom on social media. We love to see what you are cooking up!
How to Freeze Corn on the Cob in the Husk
Equipment
- Plastic Freezer Bag
- Permanent Marker
- Freezer
Ingredients
- 4 each Corn on the Cob Do NOT remove the husk
Instructions
- Place fresh corn on the cob with the husk in place in a plastic freezer bag.
- Seal bag, removing excess air.
- Use a marker to place a label and date on the bag. Store in freezer for up to 4 months.
- When ready to enjoy, remove from freezer and prepare using favorite cooking method for frozen corn.
Kathy Alexander says
Do you remove the silk?
Marjory Pilley says
If you are freezing corn of the cob in the husk, you do not remove the silk first. It will be removed when you cook it in the husk or before using an alternative method to cook it.
Debra Britt says
Thanks very helpful
Mary B says
I want to partially cook corn on the cob in the microwave (like blanching?) then cut it off to freeze it. How long would I microwave it?
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! Cook corn on the cob in the microwave using the minimum guidelines (or a minute under if desired.) It will be fully cooked but crisp, much like blanched corn. Allow it to cool and freeze. It is perfectly delicious using this method!
Laura says
I am trying this for the first time, hoping it works, however I’m not sure how to prepare it afterwards. I won’t be using a microwave, so would I thaw it & boil it, or boil it frozen?
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! You can grill it or boil it from frozen, which results in the best texture for the kernels. If boiling, remove some of the loose outermost pieces of stalk. Place the corn in boiling water. The husks may float, so you might need to cover the pot or use a utensil to keep them submerged.Boil for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the corn and your desired tenderness. Remove the corn from the water with tongs and let it cool slightly before peeling back the husks and removing the silk.
Woose says
I have frozen corn by putting in a plastic bag. The husk protected my corn by itself.
Gord D says
I tried the freeze in the husk method this past summer and used a foodsaver machine to remove all the air possible. It was fresh Taber corn which is always the best in the country but after it had thawed out entirely I threw it in the microwave and cooked in the husk which is the best method to cook corn and the taste was horrible. I had to throw it out and wait for another shipment of fresh corn to come to the city. I’ll never freeze corn in the husk again.
Marjory Pilley says
Thanks for sharing your experience. How long was it frozen? I recommend 2 months and no longer than 4 months! Also, frozen corn is best for soups, casseroles, and dishes where it's cooked along with other things. I hope that info is helpful!
Mary says
Hello, so when I take the corn out of the freezer and I want to grill it should I wait about 30 mins to grill it? And can I grill it with husk and silk still on?
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! Yes and yes! Let it defrost first and you can follow any recipe for grilling corn in the husk.
Jimmy says
I’m going to try freezing it this way this season. Anytime I cook it I usually cook it on the grill first even for putting it in stews or cream corn. Always soak it first for at least 30 minutes
Marjory Pilley says
Great! It's fantastic in soups and stews. This method is best for short-term storage.
Rodney Blacksher says
Great info, simple and straight to the point. LOVE IT!!!
Karla says
I would like to freeze corn in husk..defrost & cook in a standard oven..Is this ok?
I usually cook fresh corn..in husk 350 degrees for 30 minutes..
How long does it take for corn with husk on to defrost?
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! Once defrosted you can cook however you usually do! It’s easiest to put it in the refrigerator to defrost overnight.
George says
Hi. What I do when cooking corn in the microwave is. Trim off the loose husk leafs. On the other end cut half in inch or over the round so 5 minutes in the microwave. Remove. It's hot so o use a dish cloth. Hold the beard and squeeze the corn out. The corn will come out whith. NO. Beared. Do the butter thing and Enjoy
Offherockerbettycrocker says
This is how I have always done it! I freeze 2 ears at a time in ziplock freezer bags! It stays fine in freezer for about 6 months! I wrap it in damp paper towels and microwave for 5 minutes first side and a few minutes second side depending on how many ears I am making! It’s perfect!
Jeanne Wocking says
I have been doing this for years. Works like a charm. I just bought a batch to freeze while it is new and fresh.
I’m amazed at the people who stand and shuck their corn in the store. It is so easy to microwave and shuck in one step.
Thank you for sharing.
Donna says
I never shuck in the store either, BUT our husks get picked up by a farmer for pig food, so I guess you are doing a good thing for them!
Mary Ann says
Hi! I used this method freezing several dozen ears. When I go to cook them, no matter the method, they come out soggy. What am I doing wrong?
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! The kernels will not be firm as they would be fresh, so they are best used for soups, casseroles, or dishes where the texture will not be an issue. Also, the freezing process is best if it's not for done for an extended period of time. 2-3 months is ideal. Also, it's important to wrap tightly, and ideally twice. I hope some of those tips will help.
Offherockerbettycrocker says
The corn must be just picked! Or at least very fresh! I have never had it turn out mushy!
Sylvia says
Sorry to be a party pooper, but I tried the microwave recipe for uncooked unhusked frozen corn on the cob. The kernels were soft and watery. Ugh! The chickens liked them though!
Marjory Pilley says
Thanks for commenting! They won't be firm like fresh corn and are best used in recipes where they are incorporated like soup or a casserole.
Jeanne Wocking says
I have done this for years with excellent results. Fast no mess.
Valli says
Can I freeze on cob as you suggest partially defrost and then cut kernels off and use?
Marjory Pilley says
The process you described might work. However, the kernels are not as firm using this method. So take that into consideration.
KD says
Why can't you blank corn before shucking. The husks on many newer varieties are tough enough to deter starlings they would surely protect from freezer burn. I rarely clean my salmon (depending on size) before freezing to prevent freezer burn and that works best
Offherockerbettycrocker says
Blanching has never done anything but make a huge mess for me! Why would I even waste my time when it’s not necessary?
Anne says
When freezing uncooked corn on the cob still in the husk, is it necessary to wrap the corn in plastic wrap before putting it in freezer bags?
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! It provides a little extra protection, but is not absolutely necesssry.
Marilyn Brookes says
Deep South question here. I make corn pudding and "fried" corn, both of which use the milk scraped from the cob. Will the frozen in the shuck corn have this milk?
Marjory Pilley says
Yes it does! I think it would be perfect in those recipes!
Rebecca J McCray says
Hello Marjory;
Question? After wrapping my corn up without blanching it first. Do I "Have" to vacuum close it in a plastic bag? Or may I just put my ears of corn with husks on in a freezer ziplock bag and be content? lol
Marjory Pilley says
Hi. After wrapping, put it in a ziplock bag and remove as much excess air by mostly closing the bag and pressing as much air as possible out the corner then finally sealing the corner!
Lynn M says
I followed your method exactly for 4 cobs of corn (fresh, frozen in husk, wrapped tightly, put in 1200 W microwave right from freezer for 6 minutes on HIGH for all 4 cobs. They were still ICE COLD! So 5 more minutes ON HIGH, then 4 more minutes ON HIGH, moved corn around, 3 more minutes ON HIGH, then ANOTHER 3 minutes! Ridiculous! 21 minutes to cook the corn! Next time I will try defrosting it before cooking because I sure can’t figure out what I could POSSIBLY have done wrong! 🤷♀️
Marjory Pilley says
Thanks so much for sharing your comment and experience. It definitely does not hurt to partially defrost first, especially when cooking 4 at once! The timing varies with the size of the cobs too. I'm cooking some more frozen corn as I write this and will update the tips section!
Kim says
Thanks for posting this, I plan to do the same and I figured 6 minutes would be way too short from frozen
John Britt says
If l freeze the corn this way, can i pull the husk off and sous vide it ? Or do you suggest pulling husk off vacuum seal then sous vide right from the freezer ?
Marjory Pilley says
I've never used a sous vide, but I understand that you would want to remove the husk before cooking. It will not come off too easily from frozen, so you would need to defrost the corn first. Just put the bag in the refrigerator for a few hours and remove the husk as you normally would.
Dave Noble says
i STRIPPED THE FRESH CORN AND WRAPPED IT IN SERAN WRAP THEN IN TIN FOIL
IT HAAS BEEN IN THE FREEZER FOR 4 WEEK NOW, HOW MUCH LONGER CAN I KEEP IT FROZEN WITH THIS METHOD, AND WILL IT BE OK APPROX 3-4 WEEKS FROM NOW TO DO ON THE BBQ
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! It sounds like you removed the husk and with this method you leave the husk in place. If it's wrapped tightly you may be ok. We recommend storing corn no longer than 4 months using this method. The longer it is stored, the softer the kernels become. So, freezing unblanched corn is recommended for shorter storage periods (less than 2 months) IF you want to enjoy it as corn on the cob in the traditional way. Longer storage periods are perfect for soups, casseroles, etc. I hope that helps!
Marilyn says
I freeze my fresh corn on the cob with the musk all of the time…. It turns out great, I just microwave it with the husk on it ,and it turns out just like it was fresh out of the garden!!!
Denise says
Hi Marilyn - do you mean you microwave it with the husks on it for blanching purposes, or are you talking about when you take it out of the freezer to eat? Thanks for helping me learn!
alicia says
if i am going to microwave 4 frozen ears in the shuck. how long do i microwave it for ? it says on here 6 minutes , but i'm assuming that is for fresh corn. how long if its frozen?
Marjory Pilley says
Add 2 minutes and check to see if that does it. Just pull a little of the husk back on one of the ears. I haven't had to add much time when I cook from frozen.
Sharon Farr says
Started doing this last year and it's a great way to put up corn on the cob.
Jeanette says
So I tried your method and now I have a dozen ears of mushy corn. What can I do with mushy corn now??
Marjory Pilley says
I'm so sorry you did not have a good experience. I'm not sure if any of these apply, but it's best for very fresh corn, wrapped well, for shorter storage periods. That being said, you can still use the corn in soups and casseroles.
LeeAnn Ross says
We are starting to homestead this year and have grown our own corn. So very happy to hear that we can freeze without shucking the corn. We love having corn on the grill.
Thanks bunches,
Marjory Pilley says
That's very exciting! Enjoy!!!
Sandy says
Do you remove the plastic wrap before microwaving? Thank you so much for the information. I have been microwaving fresh corn wrapped in a paper towel for years and love it, but I would love to try this.
Marjory Pilley says
Remove the plastic wrap before microwaving and enjoy!
K.B.Roadsend says
I am sure tickled to hear of this I have nave never been one much for microwaving but just one of me left so it seems a pity to heat the house up for just one meal so I have began putting up my own frozen dinners .Most every package says machines are different and times may vary Past couple of years I have been taking corn shuck and all wrap it with a wet cotton sock then put that in a plastic grocery bag ,put it in th machine 5 minutes then turn it 90 degrees and hit it another 5 minutes turns out the best texture and sweetness I have ever had Stumbled my way onto this page wondering about easy frezing Im sure gonna give this a try as ,as much as I like corn having it 3 meals a day plus desert does get a little long And I have never had good luck blanching it and then getting it to have much quality when cooked again Thanks a million for the suggestion
Susan Dottino says
I have been cooking my corn on the cob this way for a long time.
I am so happy to know I can freeze it fresh. Thank you so much for that information
Titan says
We have a 100 acre farm with a grower that plants 30 acres of corn. We don't clean it, shuck it, just put it in a double paper bag, 20 to 30 ears, pull it out as we want it. Never had a problem. Most grocery stores have paper bags, Kroger, HEB does, just as for them if you don't see them
Kim says
I love this - how long in a double paper bag does it last?
Marsha says
When putting the corn in double paper bags do you then put them in the freezer in the bags?
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! Use plastic freezer bags. And yes put those in the freezer!
Janet Felker says
If I freeze the corn on the husk, take it out can I roast it in the oven frozen with the husk on?
Marjory Pilley says
You should be able to cook using any method used before. I've never tried that before, but I'm definitely going to next time I have corn on the cob!
Kim says
Did you try this (frozen, in the husk, roasting in the oven?) How well did it work?
Connie says
OMG Buy a lot ( of corn)
Connie says
If a person was too but a Lot of corn it says s it's only good ( Frozen) up to 4 months
Julie says
If u roast the corn before freezing can I then heat it on the grill or in the microwave?
Marjory Pilley says
You should be able reheat corn any way you like if you cook it before freezing it.
Annebelle says
Trying this for the first time! We are wrapping it in saran wrap, then into vacuum sealed bags. Excited to see how it tastes in December!
Theresa says
I have tried many ways to freeze corn on the cob an I've had no success, it was terrible, an tasted like the cob, not sure what i did wrong seeing all the positive comments.
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! I'm happy to help troubleshoot. But, a few thoughts...it will always taste better fresh! After that, this method works best for shorter periods of storage. Finally, I generally use corn frozen this way off the cob as a side or incorporate in other dishes.
Anita says
do you remove the silk first before freezing in husk?
Marjory Pilley says
Nope! Just put in a plastic bag in the freezer!
Ann Gowin says
Been doing this for a long time. Always happy with the results.
Paul says
Using the unblanchi g meth pi d when freezing, should the corn thaw completely before cooking on the barbecue grill?
Marjory Pilley says
Just as with any other method of cooking you can do it either way. However, I would prefer to grill mine straight from the freezer or partially thawed. Thanks for the question!
freedomwriter says
Excellent article! Does it have to be microwaved out of the freezer? Can it be boiled or steemed?
Marjory Pilley says
Yes! Cook it any way you like!
Jeanette Schutz says
So when cooking the corn from the freezer, do you thaw it first??
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! You do not need to defrost it first!
Marie says
Do u remove leaves and tusk ?
Marjory Pilley says
Hi! Leave the husk in place to help protect it in the freezer.
Vickie Taylor says
I have done this method of putting up corn for the past few years and I Love it, my family loves the corn better than cutting it off first then freezing it, I can put up a bushel of corn in no time and I usually put up at least 7 bushel, I have a good size family.
Marjory Pilley says
That’s a lot of corn!???
Betty says
One lady said that corn frozen this way only last four months but you’re saying you’re last a year???
Ruby says
She was saying 4 months for on the cob and with it still in the shucks. I have for years shucked, silked, and never let a drop of water touch mine and then vacuum sealed it. Eaten as much as 4 years later and as good as the day we picked it. Been doing this for 50 years.
Milly says
Thank you Ruby I think I know what I was doing wrong now I was shocking it soaking it and washing it and letting it dry my problem is the water isn't it
Andrea says
Thank you for this inspiration, Ruby! I have 5 bushels we just picked today. I'm going to try your method!
Janice says
Thank you Ruby, I must try that. How do you cook your corn from the freezer...still frozen or thawed? Also, do you use a pot of water or a grill to do yours?
Denise Simkins says
I take the husks off and rinse the cons and let them drain then put them in freezer bags usually 6 ears to a bag, then freeze them. We just finished the corn on the cob that I froze last year in time for this year’s crop. We had no freezer burn and it tastes like it was just picked. Cook as you would fresh picked corn.
Kelly says
This is such a great way to enjoy the flavor of fresh corn all year long! It tastes so much sweeter than the canned stuff.
Sandi says
I had no idea corn could be frozen...now I can buy corn on the cob in bulk at the Farmer's Market and enjoy all year long.
Gayle says
I am going to try this for the first time. After reading the comments, this should be a nice trial. One thing I will be sure and do is place these in my NON-self-defrosting freezer. Sadly, when my son-in-law gave me his freezer, it is a self-defrosting unit and it ruins so much food, if I am not careful. That is one freezer that now that I have had it for a bit, I will never have again. I can now, gracefully, sell it and buy a manual defrost so that I have two of the units I like.