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.
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.
Bridget says
Do try again! Maybe it was the type of corn you used. The best is late-fall corn & don't overcook. Freeze with husks in a baggie. When ready to cook, cut a small piece off each end & microwave on high for 5 minutes.
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.