Cheese Defrosting: How Long Does It Really Take?

Defrosting cheese is a delicate process that requires careful attention to temperature and time. The duration for cheese to defrost varies depending on the type of cheese, the quantity, and the chosen defrosting method. Hard cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, are better suited for freezing and thawing than softer varieties like ricotta or brie. The ideal approach is to allow the cheese to slowly defrost in the refrigerator over 24 to 48 hours, preserving moisture and texture. However, quicker alternatives include countertop defrosting for 2.5 to 3 hours or using the microwave in short intervals.

Defrosting cheese in the refrigerator

When defrosting cheese, the refrigerator is the preferred method. This is because it is the best way to preserve the cheese's texture and flavour. It is also the safest method, as temperatures below 40°F (4°C) prevent the growth of illness-causing bacteria.

To defrost cheese in the refrigerator, first, remove the cheese from the freezer and inspect the packaging. If the packaging is not airtight, the cheese will not be edible. If the cheese is still frozen in an airtight container, place it on a plate or baking tray. Do not remove the original packaging.

Next, store the cheese in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours, depending on the thickness of the cheese. Deli slices will take around 24 hours to defrost, while large blocks of cheese will take up to 48 hours.

Once the cheese has thawed, remove it from the refrigerator and take it out of its packaging. It is best to use the cheese as soon as possible, as it will start to spoil if left at room temperature for more than 4 hours.

It is important to note that the freezing and thawing process will affect the texture of the cheese, making it more crumbly and harder. Additionally, softer cheeses tend to spoil faster than harder cheeses.

If you are in a hurry, you can defrost cheese in the microwave or on the countertop. However, these methods may affect the texture and quality of the cheese.

Defrosting cheese on the counter

To defrost cheese on the counter, take the cheese out of the freezer and check the bag or container. If the seal is broken, the cheese will not be edible. If the seal is intact, place the cheese and its packaging on a plate or tray. Do not remove the cheese from its packaging. Leave the cheese on the counter for 2.5-3 hours to defrost. Softer cheeses will take around 2.5 hours, while harder cheeses may take a little longer.

Once the cheese is fully defrosted, remove it from its packaging and use it as soon as possible. If left out on the counter for too long, the cheese will start to go bad and will taste sour, smell unpleasant, and may even change colour.

Defrosting cheese in the microwave

To defrost cheese in the microwave, first unwrap the cheese and place it in a microwave-safe container. If you are defrosting cheese sauce, transfer the desired amount to a microwave-safe bowl.

Set your microwave to the defrost setting or adjust the power to 30%. For cheese, heat in 30- to 45-second increments, checking after each increment to see if the cheese is defrosted. For cheese sauce, heat in 10-second increments, stirring well after each increment, until the sauce is completely melted.

For both types of cheese, it is recommended to reheat to an internal temperature of 74°C or 165°F after defrosting. This will improve the texture and ensure the cheese is safe to eat.

Microwaving is a good option for defrosting small portions of cheese, but for larger amounts, it may be better to defrost slowly in the refrigerator.

How to wrap cheese before defrosting

When it comes to wrapping cheese before defrosting, there are several key steps to follow to ensure optimal results. Here is a detailed guide on how to wrap cheese for successful defrosting:

Choose the Right Cheese:

Start by selecting the appropriate type of cheese for freezing. Hard and semi-hard cheeses are the best candidates for freezing and defrosting. Examples include cheddar, provolone, Swiss, mozzarella, and Romano. Softer cheeses like ricotta, brie, or Camembert tend to become watery and crumbly when defrosted.

Cut, Shred, or Grate the Cheese:

Before wrapping, it is advisable to cut large blocks of cheese into smaller portions of about half a pound each. This will facilitate quicker freezing and defrosting. You can also choose to shred or grate the cheese if you prefer.

Wrap Tightly:

The key to successful wrapping is to ensure the cheese is tightly wrapped. Use plastic wrap or aluminium foil to create a secure barrier around the cheese. Make sure to cover all surfaces of the cheese to prevent air exposure. This step is crucial for maintaining freshness and preventing freezer burn.

Place in a Freezer Bag or Airtight Container:

Once the cheese is tightly wrapped, place it in a freezer bag or an airtight container. This additional layer of protection will help maintain the quality of the cheese during freezing and defrosting. Squeeze out as much air as possible from the freezer bag or container to prevent freezer burn further.

Label and Date:

Don't forget to label your wrapped cheese with the type of cheese and the date of freezing. This will help you keep track of when it needs to be used and ensure you use it within its optimal timeframe.

Store at the Right Temperature:

Set your freezer to 0°F (-18°C) or lower. This temperature will prevent the formation of large ice crystals, which can negatively impact the texture of the cheese. Maintaining the proper temperature is essential for preserving the quality of your frozen cheese.

By following these steps, you can effectively wrap cheese before defrosting, ensuring optimal results during the defrosting process. Remember that frozen cheese is best used within 6-9 months for the best flavour and texture. Additionally, when it comes time to defrost, a slow and gradual process in the refrigerator is recommended to maintain the cheese's texture and flavour.

How to store defrosted cheese

When defrosting cheese, it is best to do so slowly to retain the cheese's texture and moisture. The best way to defrost cheese is to place it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. It is best to keep the cheese wrapped in plastic or in the plastic bag it was frozen in. This will ensure the cheese does not dry out.

Once defrosted, cheese should be stored in the refrigerator. It is best to avoid storing cheese in plastic wrap as this can give the cheese a plastic flavour. Instead, cheese should be wrapped in a porous material such as cheese paper, butcher paper, or wax paper. This paper-wrapped cheese should then be placed in a container for extra protection, such as Tupperware or a plastic bag with holes poked in it. The holes are important as cheese is a living thing.

The best place to store cheese in the refrigerator is the produce drawer or a cold spot in the back of the fridge, away from other smelly things as cheese can absorb odours.

Fresh and soft cheeses, such as mozzarella, brie, ricotta, and goat cheese, can be refrigerated for one to two weeks. Hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan can be stored in the refrigerator for six months before opening and three to four weeks after opening.

Frequently asked questions