Defrosting Creative Gourmet frozen berries and fruits Generally, for most uses ie smoothies, baking, poaching, etc, there is no need to defrost the frozen berries and fruits. However, occasionally there are certain recipes when frozen berries and fruits require defrosting. If you do need to defrost we recommend the following: To defrost, place berries or fruit in a single layer on a tray or plate at room temperature. Do not line the plate or tray with paper towel a this will absorb the natural juices. Alternatively, place the tray or plate of berries and fruit in the fridge until defrosted. To defrost in the microwave, place the berries and fruit in single layer on a microwave-safe plate and defrost in the microwave, uncovered, on defrost/30% power in 1 minute bursts until partially defrosted (time depends on size of berries). Stand for 1-2 minutes until fully defrosted and juicy. Once defrosted, use as required. Time to defrost frozen fruits and berries depends on the temperature and the size of the fruit or berry. For example, large berries like strawberries or boysenberries take longer to defrost than a raspberry. If the frozen fruit becomes icy (this is usually due to slight defrosting), before defrosting remove it from the bag and gently rub the frozen fruit between sheets of paper towel to remove the ice.   Approximate time required to defrost frozen berries and fruits at room temperature*   Raspberries, Blueberries and High Antioxidant Berry Mix About 15-25 Mixed Berries, Summer Fruits and Forest Fruits About 30-40 minutes Strawberries About 35-45 minutes Pitted Cherries About 10-15 minutes Rhubarb Cuts Do not defrost, cook or microwave frozen Rhubarb Cuts Cranberries Do not defrost, cook or microwave frozen Cranberries *defrosting times may vary with the season and indoor temperature