How to Freeze Dry Cheese

Freeze-drying cheese has emerged as an amazing method in the world of food preservation. Ensuring the extended shelf life of this delectable dairy product. All the while maintaining its exquisite flavor. This technique has caught the attention of culinary enthusiasts. All seeking innovative ways to preserve and utilize cheese. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of freeze-drying cheese, providing step-by-step instructions for achieving optimal results. From selecting the ideal types of cheese to understanding the intricate process, we will explore every detail necessary to freeze-dry cheese effectively. Additionally, we will uncover the versatility of freeze-dried cheese and its rehydration potential, enabling you to indulge in your favorite cheese varieties for an extended period. 

cheeese

This is the best way we have found to preserve fresh cheese from the grocery store without taking up precious freezer space. Freeze-dried foods are great for snacks or long term food storage. You can do so many things. From powdered cheese sauce for macaroni or turning bite size pieces into snacks for road trips and camping. Blue cheese crumbles can be added to salad instead of croutons or mixed into sauces. We have so many ideas for better ways to make things at home without the processed stuff you find in the store. Prepare to embark on a journey of culinary innovation as we unlock the secrets of freeze-drying cheese. 

What is the Difference Between Freeze Drying and Dehydrating?

Freeze drying and dehydrating are two distinct methods of removing moisture from food products. While both techniques aim to extend the shelf life of foods, they differ in terms of the process and the resulting product.

Freeze drying involves freezing the food product and then placing it in a vacuum chamber where the frozen water within the food is sublimated, i.e., it goes from a solid state directly to a gaseous state without passing through the liquid phase. This process helps preserve most of the nutritional value, flavor, and texture of the food. In the case of cheese, it retains its original taste making it an ideal choice for long-term storage.

On the other hand, dehydrating involves removing moisture from the food by exposing it to low heat over a long period of time. This method is commonly used for dairy products such as regular cheese. However, dehydrated cheese may lose some of its nutritional value and may have a different texture compared to freeze-dried cheese.

Freeze Dried Cheese

Is Freeze-Dried Cheese any Good?

Freeze-dried cheese is highly regarded for its exceptional taste, texture, and long shelf life. Thus making it a popular choice among food enthusiasts and those seeking convenient, high-quality dairy products. When properly freeze dried, cheese retains its original flavor profile, making it an excellent option for snacking or incorporating into recipes. The freeze-drying process removes moisture from the cheese while preserving its nutritional value and taste. To me they tastes like a homemade Cheeze-It, especially if you use the thin sliced cheese.

One of the advantages of freeze-dried cheese is its long shelf life. When stored in airtight containers such as mylar bags with oxygen absorbers or mason jars, it can last for several years at room temperature. This makes it a versatile and reliable ingredient to have on hand, especially in emergency situations or for outdoor enthusiasts.

Another benefit of freeze-dried cheese is its versatility. While cheddar cheese is a popular choice for freeze-drying, nearly any type of cheese can be freeze-dried, allowing for a wide range of flavors and textures to be preserved. Whether you prefer a sharp cheddar or a creamy brie, there is a freeze-dried option to suit your taste. You can just put some out in a glass bowl for parties or fill up large bags for storage or the pantry, so many great snack options. 

What is the best cheese to freeze dry?

The optimal choice of cheese for freeze drying depends on its moisture content and texture. When selecting cheese for freeze drying, it is important to choose a kind of cheese that has a low moisture content. Hard cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, and parmesan work best for freeze drying due to their lower moisture levels. These cheeses are able to retain their flavor and texture after the freeze-drying process.

To achieve the best results, it is recommended to shred the cheese or slice thin before placing it in the freeze dryer. Shredded cheese has a larger surface area, allowing for faster and more even drying. Additionally, it is easier to work with and can be used in a variety of ways, such as sprinkling it over dishes or incorporating it into recipes.

For those who prefer a creamier texture, cream cheese or Velveeta can also be freeze dried. These cheeses can be easily rehydrated by adding a small amount of water, making them versatile options for various culinary applications.

In terms of freeze-drying time, it typically takes around 24-48 hours to completely dry shredded cheese in a home freeze dryer. However, it is important to note that the time can vary depending on the type and moisture content of the cheese. We just used the default settings on our Harvest Right medium freeze dryer.

Once the cheese is freeze dried, it can be stored in an airtight container for long-term preservation. If desired, the freeze-dried cheese can be further processed into cheese powder or bite-size pieces for convenience and easy incorporation into meals. When we learned how to freeze dry cheese we realized there is so much that we can do with out freeze-dryer unit and not just candy and veggies.

freeze drying

How Long Will Freeze-Dried Cheese Last?

When freeze-dried, cheese can have an impressive shelf life, making it an excellent option for long-term storage and emergency food supplies. The duration of the freeze-dried cheese’s shelf life depends on various factors, such as the type of cheese, packaging, and storage conditions. Here are some important points to consider regarding the longevity of freeze-dried cheese:

Type of Cheese:

  • Hard cheeses generally have a longer shelf life compared to soft cheeses. Examples of hard cheeses include cheddar, gouda, and parmesan.
  • Soft cheeses like brie or camembert may take longer to freeze dry compared to hard cheeses.

Packaging and Storage:

  • Proper packaging is crucial for maximizing the shelf life of freeze-dried cheese. It should be stored in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent moisture and oxygen exposure.
  • The cheese should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and fluctuating temperatures.
  • When stored correctly, it can last for several years, maintaining its flavor and texture.
  • Some cheeses may be more oily than others, so I like to let mine set on paper towels before putting into zip top bags for snacks. 

You may want to invest in some long term food storage buckets and bags for large quantities. If you are just trying out freeze drying cheese and want to experiment with recipes. Just some clear, zip top bags should be good. Our first attempt was a smaller batch just to learn how to freeze dry cheese. Next time we will be doing more of a bulk batch when we find a great sale price on the organic cheese. I know you can’t wait to learn just how to freeze dry cheese so let’s get to it. 

How to Freeze Dry Cheese

To properly freeze dry cheese, it is important to follow a specific process that ensures optimal results and a long shelf life. The first step is to prepare the cheese by shredding it into small, even pieces. Spread the shredded cheese onto freeze-dryer trays, making sure to distribute it evenly. Next, start the freeze-dryer and allow it to run its cycle. The cheese is done when it is completely dry and brittle.

If you are wanting to make cheese chips. Just slice your block cheese thin. The thinner the better. We bought block cheese and the pre-sliced cheese for sandwiches. The pre sliced cheese was the perfect thickness for our cheese chips. I used a pizza cutter to cut the slices into the size we wanted. We used the default settings. A good cheese slier is a must so you can either do a handheld cheese slicer or a multipurpose cutter.

Next step

Once the freeze-drying process is complete, it is crucial to package the cheese immediately in an airtight container for long-term storage. This will help to maintain its freshness and prevent moisture from re-entering. If you plan to use the freeze-dried cheese as an individual snack or in small quantities, you can package it in smaller bags for convenience.

Freeze Dried Cheese

When you are ready to use the freeze-dried cheese, you can rehydrate it by soaking it in warm water for 15-30 minutes until it softens. Alternatively, you can incorporate it directly into your cooking. It can be crumbled for easy incorporation into recipes like pasta dishes, soups, or sandwiches. We love the idea of using the cheese in hot recipes like soup and alfredo sauce where we just need to add enough water to make a creamy sauce but you can really use those concentrated flavors. 

We have found that the best way to use the shredded freeze dried cheese is just add it to the dish and let the moisture and heat rehydrate it. You can sprinkle it on your salad and just let the salad dressing rehydrate the cheese. The cheese chips are best eaten without rehydrating them.

The freeze-dried cheese will have a crunchy texture and a pretty long shelf life, making it an excellent option for those following a low carb diet or looking for a convenient and nutritious snack. Whether you are a small business owner or an individual looking to experiment with freeze-drying cheese, this process can provide you with innovative options for preserving and enjoying cheese in a new way.

What Can I do with Cheese Dust or Cheese Powder?

After freeze-drying cheese, you may be left with cheese powder, which can be used in a variety of ways. Don’t let this precious byproduct go to waste! Here are some innovative ideas for utilizing cheese dust or cheese powder:

Enhance your cooking:

  • Sprinkle cheese dust on top of pasta dishes, popcorn, or roasted vegetables for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Mix cheese powder into sauces, soups, or dips to add a cheesy richness.
  • Use cheese dust as a seasoning for homemade bread, crackers, or savory muffins.
  • Combine cheese powder with breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to create a flavorful coating for chicken tenders or fish fillets.

Create a great snack:

  • Mix cheese dust with melted butter and drizzle over freshly popped popcorn for a gourmet movie night treat.
  • Blend cheese powder with cream cheese or yogurt to make a delicious and protein-packed dip for veggies or pretzels.

To make cheese dust or cheese powder, simply place your freeze-dried cheese in a food processor and pulse until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, you can crush the freeze-dried cheese using a mortar and pestle or by placing it in a sturdy plastic bag and gently smashing it with a rolling pin.

Store your cheese dust or cheese powder in an airtight container on your pantry shelf for future use. With just a few pounds of cheese, you can create a versatile and complimentary snack ingredient that will elevate your culinary creations to new heights.

Buy Cheese Powder Online: 

  1. Hoosier Hill Farm Cheese Powder: Known for its rich flavor and versatility, Hoosier Hill Farm offers cheese powder made from real cheddar cheese. It can be sprinkled on popcorn, vegetables, or used to make sauces and dips.
  2. Anthony’s Premium Cheddar Cheese Powder: Anthony’s cheddar cheese powder is made from real cheese and is free of artificial flavors and preservatives. It’s a favorite among home cooks for adding cheesy goodness to snacks and dishes.
  3. Nutri Store Cheddar Cheese Powder: Nutri Store offers cheddar cheese powder that’s ideal for adding a cheesy flavor to various dishes. Made from real cheddar cheese, it can be used as a seasoning or mixed into sauces and soups.
  4. Thrive Life Cheddar Cheese Powder: Thrive Life provides cheddar cheese powder made from high-quality ingredients. This cheese powder is perfect for enhancing the flavor of snacks, sauces, and baked goods.
  5. It’s Just- White Cheddar Powder Simple ingredients, made in the USA
FD Cheese

Don’t Have a Freeze Dryer? Buy Online:

If you do not have a freeze dryer, you can purchase one online. One option is to visit the Harvest Right website. Here you can find a variety of freeze dryers to choose from. The best part is that they offer free shipping on all orders! A great way to save  on a freeze dryer online is by shopping through our affiliate links . You support our site at no extra cost to you. They have a lot of great sales through our link so make sure you click it and check often. If you see a $500 off sale. That is the highest amount off.

Having a freeze dryer at home opens up a world of possibilities for preserving your favorite foods. From freeze-dried fruits and vegetables to freeze dried meats. You can experiment with different recipes and create delicious, long-lasting snacks. So, if you don’t have a freeze dryer yet, consider buying one online and start enjoying the benefits of this innovative technology.

Freeze Dried Cheese

Freeze-drying cheese is a valuable technique for preserving and enhancing the longevity of various cheese types. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide. Cheese enthusiasts can successfully freeze-dry their favorite cheeses while retaining their flavor and texture. The resulting freeze-dried cheese can be rehydrated and utilized in a variety of culinary creations. Providing you a convenient and versatile ingredient.

With freeze drying, cheese lovers can enjoy their preferred flavors for an extended period, enhancing their culinary experiences. It is important to cook with real food and real ingredients. We don’t want anything to spoil or go to waste.

Getting a Freeze Dryer


We highly recommend the Harvest Right Medium freeze dryer for your food preservation needs. This versatile appliance provides excellent freeze-drying capabilities without the need for a large dedicated 20 amp circuit, unlike the larger sizes. As avid users and supporters of Harvest Right products, we’ve found their quality and customer support exceptional. As a Harvest Right Affiliate, we stand by their reliability and effectiveness. When you shop through our affiliate link, you help support our small business at no additional cost to you. It’s a straightforward way to assist us while investing in a superior freeze-drying solution for your home, ensuring your food stays fresh and nutritious for longer periods.

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