Freezing Pecans

Pecans can be kept for several years in the freezer.

Unshelled pecans take up valuable freezer space and they aren't ready for immediate use, so you'll probably want to shell them before you freeze them

Pecans are a seasonal crop, so you'll want to store some in your freezer for year-round use.

Because pecans are rich in oil, they'll become stale or rancid quickly if they aren't stored properly.

The main causes of rancidity are air, moisture, warm temperatures, and light.

Pecans stored properly will not be exposed to air, moisture, warm temperatures or light.

Pecans can be kept fresh for several years if they are stored in the freezer. They can be stored shelled or unshelled.

Unshelled pecans take up valuable freezer space and they aren't ready for immediate use, so you'll probably want to shell them before you freeze them. Unbroken kernels will stay fresh longer than broken ones.

Moisture proof containers…

Package shelled pecans in moisture-vapor-proof containers such as plastic cartons, glass freezer jars, reusable cans or plastic freezer bags. Pack them tightly and exclude as much air as possible.

For more information on freezing pecans, contact your local county Extension office.