As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide some insights on how long it takes to freeze a can of beer. The freezing time can vary depending on several factors such as the temperature of the freezer, the alcohol content of the beer, and the size of the can.
Typically, it can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours for a can of beer to freeze in a standard home freezer. However, it's important to note that beer contains alcohol, which lowers its freezing point compared to water. This means that beer will take longer to freeze than other beverages with lower alcohol content.
If you're in a hurry and want to chill a can of beer quickly, you can place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This should lower its temperature significantly, making it refreshing to drink. However, it's crucial to set a timer and not leave the beer in the freezer for too long, as this can have undesirable consequences.
Leaving beer bottles or cans in the freezer for an extended period can lead to them exploding or becoming slushy. The carbonation in beer creates pressure, and when frozen, this pressure can cause the container to burst. I've personally experienced this unfortunate event, resulting in a messy and potentially dangerous situation.
Additionally, if beer is left in the freezer for too long, it can become a slushy mess. This is because the water content in the beer freezes faster than the alcohol, creating a separation between the two components. When you open the can or bottle, you'll be left with a partially frozen, unpleasant-tasting beer.
To avoid these issues, it's best to plan ahead and ensure you have enough cold beer for your outdoor party. Keeping a stock of chilled beer in your fridge or using coolers with ice packs can help maintain the desired temperature without risking freezing or slushy beer.
Freezing a can of beer can take 1 to 2 hours in a standard home freezer. However, it's not recommended to leave beer in the freezer for too long, as it may explode or become slushy. It's always better to plan ahead and have a sufficient supply of chilled beer to avoid any unpleasant surprises during your outdoor party.