Peanut butter is one of those ingredients that is always good to keep on hand because it can be used in many different ways, from peanut butter cookies has tasty peanut sauces. However, commercial peanut butter will last between six and 24 months unopened. depending on the brandand two to three months once opened. Natural peanut butter is slightly different, only lasting several months unopened and one month opened. However, freezing peanut butter can extend its shelf life for up to a year, but it’s not as simple as throwing your jar in the freezer and calling a halt to its consumption.

For one, you should never put an unopened jar of peanut butter in the freezer, especially if it’s glass. This is because peanut butter expands when it freezes, but it has nowhere to expand in an unopened jar. It is therefore possible that the pressure will cause the pot to rupture, creating a major mess. Additionally, many people make the mistake of storing their peanut butter in the freezer for too long. Freezers can extend the life of peanut butter, but it still won’t last forever. After about six months in the freezer, the peanut butter will begin to lose its flavor and may develop freezer burn.

Although you can freeze peanut butter in its original container, you must remove the lid and allow it to freeze covered only with plastic wrap. Once frozen, you can replace the lid without fear of it breaking. Alternatively, you can put the peanut butter in freezer bags and flatten them for easier storage.

Learn more: 10 simple tips to reduce food waste

How to Properly Thaw Frozen Peanut Butter

When you are ready to use your frozen peanut butter, it can be thawed in the refrigerator or on your counter. In the refrigerator, you should let it thaw completely for at least 24 hours, especially if you are defrosting a large amount of peanut butter. On your counter, it will take about half that time, but you need to make sure the peanut butter you defrost can safely stay at room temperature.

However, if it has been stored for a while, you should check its color and consistency to make sure it hasn’t faded before eating it. Frozen peanut butter should also not be thawed quickly, as this could impact its consistency. So if you know you’ll need it, plan ahead so it has plenty of time to thaw gradually.

Additionally, natural peanut butter tends to separate, and the oil can be difficult to incorporate if not mixed thoroughly before freezing. When freezing and thawing natural peanut butter, be sure to stir it to avoid separation and preserve its creamy texture. This is why freezing in small batches can often be your best option, as it allows you to remove and thaw what you need and the smaller grades will thaw more quickly than a whole jar.

Read the original article on Chowhound.